2016 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · WD65 RYC

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-16 resulted in a clean pass, though it included several persistent advisories that suggest ongoing but manageable wear and minor component degradation. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years appears stable rather than worsening, with only minor issues recurring—particularly the front and rear brake discs showing pitted or scored surfaces, which the DVSA categorises as worn but not seriously weakened under 1.1.14(a)(ii). The presence of these advisories, however, indicates that the braking system has been subjected to regular use, and while the vehicle remains roadworthy, the wear progression of the brake pads and discs should prompt closer attention to their condition over time. The near-side rear brake cable and handbrake cable advisories from 2026 also warrant inspection, as a damaged brake cable can lead to reduced braking efficiency or even failure if left unaddressed, particularly if the crack in the handbrake cable is progressing. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 62,467 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,247 miles per year, which aligns reasonably well with a 10-year-old Yaris under typical UK driving conditions. While lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or lighter use, the consistent mileage accumulation suggests the car has been driven regularly, which accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The front tyres from the 2020 MOT were noted to be worn close to the legal limit, worn on the edges by 2mm, indicating significant lateral wear which could signal underinflation, alignment issues, or excessive cornering forces. This wear pattern is particularly concerning as it may also contribute to uneven tyre degradation and reduced tyre life, necessitating a thorough inspection of tyre pressure, alignment, and tread depth before purchase. For a prospective buyer, this Yaris requires a meticulous inspection focused on the braking system, suspension, and tyre condition due to the recurring advisories and wear indicators. Begin by visually inspecting the brake discs for signs of excessive pitting, warping, or corrosion, and check for any binding or excessive play in the brake calipers, which could indicate misalignment or seized components. Listen for unusual noises during braking, such as grinding, squeaking, or a pulsating sensation in the pedal, which may signal worn pads, warped discs, or hydraulic issues. The brake cables should be examined for further deterioration, particularly the near-side rear cable, as a compromised cable can lead to inefficient or failed braking. Test the handbrake for smooth engagement and proper function, ensuring there is no excessive drag or binding, which could indicate a failing cable or worn linkage. In addition to the braking system, conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and tyres. Check for uneven wear patterns on the tyres, particularly around the edges, and verify that the tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread. Inspect the suspension for signs of wear such as cracked or swollen coil springs, excessive play in the control arms or bushes, or unusual clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged struts. The vehicle’s exhaust emissions system should also be reviewed, as the 2024 MOT failure for insufficient washer liquid was unrelated to the vehicle’s emissions, but any recurring issues with fluid levels or washer function could indicate a larger problem with the washer pump or reservoir. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, and inspect the engine bay for any signs of oil leaks, coolant contamination, or fluid degradation, particularly if the car has been stationary for extended periods. Ensure the service history is up to date, especially for fluid changes such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which should be replaced at specified intervals regardless of mileage due to calendar-based degradation.