2002 Toyota Yaris 1.0L Petrol · YD52 AYG

This Toyota Yaris has demonstrated a stable roadworthiness trend over the past five years, with no defects or advisories recorded in any of the six MOT tests conducted between 2019 and 2021. The most recent test, on 2021-09-07, passed without issue despite the vehicle being tested twice on the same day at 71,534 miles—a rare but not unprecedented anomaly. The absence of any recurring faults or advisories suggests the vehicle has been maintained at a basic level, though the lack of recorded defects does not guarantee undetected wear in high-stress components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers. The clean MOT history implies no major structural or mechanical failures have been formally identified, but the vehicle’s age (24 years) and mileage (71,534) necessitate a thorough inspection of critical areas. The mileage pattern reveals unusually low annual mileage, averaging just 2,981 miles per year over the past five years. This suggests the vehicle has spent extended periods either parked or used lightly, which can accelerate deterioration in rubber components (tyres, suspension bushes, wiper blades) and lead to corrosion in underbody and wheel arch areas. Notably, there is a 14-month gap between the 2019-07-17 tests and the 2020-09-05 test, during which the mileage increased by only 4,684 miles—far below typical annual usage. Such low mileage accumulation often correlates with deferred maintenance, as owners may delay servicing or repairs when a vehicle is rarely driven. The lack of service records further complicates assessment, as fluid changes, brake inspections, and suspension checks are critical for vehicles of this age. Given the sparse MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear coil springs and bushes, which are prone to fatigue in a vehicle of this age. The binding brakes mentioned in the 2021 retest—though not formally recorded as a defect—warrant scrutiny of the rear caliper pistons, brake discs, and wheel cylinders for excessive wear or corrosion. The front and rear wheel arches should be examined for rust penetration, as prolonged stationary use increases vulnerability to structural corrosion. Additionally, the exhaust system, especially at the rear, should be checked for leaks or sagging, while the battery and electrical connections may require attention if the vehicle has been stored for prolonged periods. The tyres, despite passing MOT, should be assessed for uneven wear or excessive tread depth variation, as low mileage does not preclude degradation from improper inflation or misalignment.