2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3L Petrol · YR12 XJC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift towards developing age-related defects. While the most recent test in March 2026 at 42,432 miles passed, the tester identified a corroded offside front brake pipe covered in grease. This indicates the beginning of material degradation in the hydraulic system that requires immediate attention to prevent a future failure, marking a departure from the clean record seen in early 2022. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,000 miles per year. Between March 2022 at 35,144 miles and March 2026 at 42,432 miles, the car covered only 7,288 miles. This low usage suggests minimal strain on the engine and gearbox, but it also explains the recurring issues with rubber components. The data shows a consistent annual testing pattern, suggesting the vehicle has not been neglected despite the low mileage. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, as the record shows recurring failures for perishing and cracking across all four units from 2023 through 2025. Low-mileage cars often suffer from dry rot because the rubber degrades regardless of tread depth. The 2025 test also noted a nearside front tyre worn to the edge, which points to an alignment issue or worn suspension bushes that need to be verified. Mechanical attention should also focus on the braking system, specifically the corroded pipe flagged in the March 2026 test. Given the vehicle's age and low use, the inspector should check for cracks in brake hoses and perished rubber bushings which can become brittle over long periods of inactivity. The presence of grease on a brake pipe is a specific red flag as it may have been used to hide a leak or indicate a poor previous repair.