2004 Toyota Celica 1.8L Petrol · YB04 RBV

This Toyota Celica has demonstrated a stable but inconsistent MOT history, with the most recent test on 24 February 2026 passing without defects—just one month before the current date. The pattern of alternating failures and passes over the past three years suggests either a lack of pre-test maintenance or a vehicle that narrowly avoids critical failures at each cycle. Notably, the February 2026 failure was followed by a swift pass, implying the tester may have caught minor issues that were rectified between tests. However, the absence of recorded defects does not preclude underlying wear, particularly in high-mileage components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers, which are prone to fatigue at this age. The recorded mileage of 182,387 miles aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 8,300 miles annually. There are no significant gaps or spikes in the MOT record to suggest prolonged neglect or rapid deterioration, though the lack of intermediate servicing details means wear on non-MOT items—such as timing belts, differential fluid, or clutch components—cannot be confirmed. The most recent test occurred just six months ago, which is within the standard MOT validity period, but the irregular pass/fail sequence warrants closer scrutiny of components that often fail intermittently, such as brake binding or suspension misalignment. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, given the Celica’s history of wear in these areas. The braking system—especially rear calipers and discs—should be checked for uneven wear or binding, as repeated MOT failures without recorded defects often point to recurring brake issues. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, is another critical concern at this mileage, as is the integrity of the exhaust system for leaks or excessive rust. Given the vehicle’s age, fluid levels (brake, power steering, and coolant) and the condition of hoses should also be verified, as these are common failure points that don’t always appear on an MOT.