2016 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · VE66 BWV

The latest MOT test result for the 2016 Toyota Yaris on 2025-09-26 was a pass, marking the most recent clean assessment following a history of both passing and failing tests over the preceding five years. While the vehicle has not failed since 2022, the earlier failures—particularly the 2021 test which included a major defect for a damaged seatbelt and advisories for worn tyres—suggest a pattern of wear-related issues that may have been addressed but not entirely resolved. The recurring advisories on tyre wear, particularly near the legal limits, indicate that the tyres have been subjected to significant lateral and tread wear, which could be attributed to alignment issues, poor suspension geometry, or excessive speeding at higher speeds. The presence of minor tyre damage, such as cracking or perishing around puncture repairs, also warrants attention, as these signs may signal underlying structural tyre degradation or improper storage conditions, especially if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. The recorded mileage of 58,070 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,807 miles per year, which is notably below the average for its class. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored indoors or in a climate-controlled environment, which may have contributed to the observed tyre perishing and cracking. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee that wear has been minimal; standing vehicles can still suffer from issues such as brake corrosion from moisture, suspension binding due to rust in strut mounts or control arms, and fluid degradation from stagnation. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving conditions, but this does not eliminate the risk of hidden wear from prolonged idleness or improper maintenance practices. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, brakes, suspension, and electrical systems, given the recurring advisories and past failures. Begin with a visual and tactile examination of the tyres, checking for sidewall cracking, perishing, or signs of uneven wear beyond what the advisories indicate. The lateral wear close to the legal limits and the presence of cracks or perishing suggest that the tyres may need replacement soon, ideally within the next 3,000 to 5,000 miles to prevent further damage to the vehicle’s handling and safety. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil spring mounts, or loose control arm bushings. Additionally, check for binding calipers or corroded brake discs, particularly on the rear, as the past advisories suggest these components may be nearing the end of their serviceable life. Focus on the rear brakes during the inspection, as the pitted or scored discs from previous tests may require replacement if they are severely worn or corroded. Inspect the rear brake pads for thickness and wear, and listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could signal metal-to-metal contact if the pads are worn down to the backing plate. The near-side rear position lamp failure in 2022 highlights the importance of testing all lights, including the brake lights, turn signals, and indicators, to ensure they function correctly. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also verify the condition of the 12V battery and starter motor, as prolonged standing can lead to battery sulfation or corrosion in terminals. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the oil cap, coolant reservoir, and brake fluid reservoir, as stagnant fluids can degrade over time. Finally, ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid changes, as the Toyota Yaris is known for requiring regular oil and coolant servicing, with the latter potentially needing replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every five years, whichever comes first. If the service book is missing or incomplete, arrange for a thorough inspection of critical systems like the engine coolant system, transmission fluid, and brake fluid to confirm their condition.