2010 Toyota Aygo 1.0L Petrol · YA10 FLH

The most recent MOT on 3 July 2023 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions standards. Earlier in the series, a major failure on 28 June 2022 for excessive play and roughness in the nearside front wheel bearing was followed by a successful re‑test a month later, suggesting that the bearing was repaired or replaced. Prior to that the car suffered a dangerous brake‑pad failure in July 2020 and advisory notes on tyre wear in 2018, but those issues have not re‑appeared in the latest tests. Overall the maintenance trajectory appears to be improving, with the most serious defects having been addressed and no new major failures recorded in the last two years. At 101,832 miles the Aygo has averaged roughly 6,300 miles per annum over its sixteen‑year life, which is typical for a small city car and points to a moderate level of use rather than extreme high‑kilometre abuse. The mileage record shows no large unexplained gaps, implying the vehicle has been driven fairly consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This usage pattern would be expected to produce normal wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres and suspension bushings, while also allowing regular service intervals to have been observed if the owner kept to the manufacturer’s schedule. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the nearside front wheel bearing, confirming that there is no perceptible play when the wheel is rocked and that the bearing rotates smoothly and quietly at idle. Any low‑frequency humming, grinding or intermittent clunk on cornering could indicate a recurrence of the earlier bearing problem. The brake system also warrants scrutiny: the 2020 dangerous pad wear suggests the pads may have been close to the minimum thickness, so a visual check of all four pads should verify that they are still above the 1.5 mm safety limit and that the discs are free from deep scoring or excessive rust. The advisories on corroded brake pipes from 2021 mean the pipe sleeves should be inspected for rust, pitting or grease build‑up, and the brake pedal should feel firm with no sponginess, indicating the hydraulic circuit is intact. Tyre condition should be assessed both for tread depth and for age‑related cracking; even if the tread is within legal limits, sidewall perishing is common on tyres older than six years regardless of mileage. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also examine items that deteriorate with time. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, as a sixteen‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Inspect the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids for colour change or particulate contamination, and verify that the last fluid change dates are recorded in the service book. Look for rust on the chassis, suspension mounting points and under‑body panels, especially if the car has spent long periods standing. Finally, confirm that the service history includes regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain inspections (as applicable to the Aygo’s engine), and that any previous major repairs such as the wheel bearing replacement are documented with receipts or MOT certificates. These checks will help ensure that the car remains mechanically sound and that no hidden wear has been overlooked.