2009 Toyota Auris 1.3L Petrol · YN09 MMF

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Toyota Auris, conducted on 2025-09-11, resulted in a clean pass with only minor and advisory defects, indicating a stable maintenance profile rather than a deterioration trend. While the vehicle has encountered consistent advisories—particularly concerning corrosion on brake hoses, suspension components, and subframe mountings—these have not escalated to serious failures or structural weaknesses in the latest test. The presence of recurring advisories, such as corrosion to brake hoses and suspension arms, suggests a pattern of wear that may warrant closer attention, but the absence of critical failures or repeated failures in the same category over the past three years points to a vehicle that has been maintained adequately despite some inherent wear issues. The recorded mileage of 118,123 miles for a vehicle aged 17 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,948 miles per year, which is typical for its age and likely reflects a mix of regular driving and periods of inactivity. This mileage distribution does not suggest excessive wear from high annual mileage alone, though the combination of age and moderate usage means certain components will have experienced cumulative stress. The absence of significantly higher mileage spikes could indicate lighter use in some periods, but the vehicle’s age means that wear patterns from standing, corrosion, and fluid degradation are more pronounced than in newer or lower-mileage examples. The rear subframe and suspension arms, in particular, may have been affected by prolonged exposure to moisture and road conditions, contributing to the observed corrosion advisories. As a prospective buyer, the first priority is to verify the presence and severity of the recurring corrosion advisories, particularly in the brake hoses, suspension arms, and subframe mountings, which have been flagged in multiple tests. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which could indicate worn or corroded suspension arms or bushings. Check for uneven tyre wear, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the brake system for any signs of pulsation or shuddering, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Additionally, visually inspect the brake hoses for any signs of bulging or cracks, as corrosion to the ferrules can compromise their integrity over time. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, the rear brake discs may show signs of corrosion or binding, which could affect braking performance. Beyond the MOT findings, it is essential to conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity and components that may have degraded over time due to age. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken their structural integrity and reduce handling performance. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals or a failing condition, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure from prolonged inactivity. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive rust, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler, as the excessive smoke advisory from 2022 may hint at underlying issues that could worsen with further use. Verify that the service history includes time-based fluid servicing, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which should have been replaced according to Toyota’s recommended intervals. Finally, ensure the windscreen washer system is operational and refill the washer liquid reservoir, as the 2024 MOT failure highlighted a critical deficiency in this area.