2019 Toyota Yaris 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · WH69 HJY

The 2019 Toyota Yaris received its latest MOT on 19 August 2026, passing with two advisories: light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber and a slightly noisy near-side rear wheel bearing. While the vehicle has maintained a clean pass record since 2022, the presence of these recurring advisories suggests a gradual but persistent issue with the rear suspension components. The pattern of advisories—particularly the rear shock absorber and wheel bearing—indicates that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, there is a developing wear trend that warrants closer attention. The lack of failures in previous MOTs suggests that the owner has likely addressed minor issues promptly, but the advisories themselves point to areas where further inspection or servicing may be necessary before they escalate into more serious mechanical failures. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 50,079 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,154 miles per year, which is consistent with the typical driving habits of owners of this age and model. This mileage level does not suggest either excessive wear from heavy use or prolonged idleness, though the exact usage profile cannot be determined without additional context. However, the consistent mileage accumulation over seven years implies that the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components have been subjected to moderate but sustained stress, which is to be expected for a vehicle of this age. The absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily mean the car has been driven daily, but it does indicate that the wear on consumables and wear items has been gradual rather than abrupt. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the rear shock absorber and wheel bearing are critical to address. The light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber could indicate early signs of internal wear or leakage, which may lead to reduced damping effectiveness and increased road noise or clunking when driving over bumps. On a test drive, listen for a persistent, rhythmic clunking or knocking from the rear suspension when the vehicle is driven over uneven surfaces, and check for any uneven ride height or excessive body roll. The slightly noisy near-side rear wheel bearing may cause a low-frequency humming or grinding sound, particularly at higher speeds or when cornering, which could worsen if left unchecked. Inspect the wheel bearing area for any visible signs of heat damage or excessive play, and ensure there is no excessive vibration or pulling to the left when driving straight. Beyond the advisories, conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s condition. Given the age and mileage, focus on the following key areas: the front and rear tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to UV light and age-related degradation. The TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) warning, noted in 2025, may indicate either a faulty sensor or a tyre that is underinflated, which can lead to uneven wear or a blowout risk. Verify that all tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth and that the wear pattern is consistent across the surface. Additionally, inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing brake discs can develop rust or seize. Check the fluid levels—brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—considering that fluids degrade over time, even with regular use. Finally, test the 12V battery and starter system, as older vehicles can suffer from reduced cranking power or electrical gremlins due to age-related battery degradation or parasitic drains. Ensure the service book or maintenance records are up to date, particularly for the suspension servicing intervals, as the advisories suggest that the rear suspension may require professional inspection or replacement sooner than the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.