2010 Toyota Yaris 1.4L Diesel · YY10 RYB

The most recent DVSA MOT test dated 12 November 2025 resulted in a fail outcome, although no specific defects or advisories were recorded against the entry itself, which is unusual as fail results should technically log at least one failure category. Prior to this, the vehicle achieved clean passes at the November 2024, November 2023, and November 2022 tests, again with no advisories or defects recorded. From a maintenance trend perspective, the consistent run of clean passes over several consecutive years suggests the vehicle has historically been kept in good mechanical order, though the most recent fail outcome, even if minor or administrative in nature, should be fully investigated to establish what prompted the refusal before purchase. Any prospective buyer should obtain the official failure documentation from the DVSA or the testing garage to clarify what component or system caused the latest failure. The recorded mileage of 75,158 miles across approximately 16 years equates to an annual average of around 4,700 miles, which is considerably below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and segment. This low annual figure suggests the Yaris has either seen predominantly light use or has spent extended periods standing idle between journeys. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it introduces a distinct set of age-related concerns. Vehicles that stand for prolonged periods are particularly susceptible to corrosion on brake discs, binding or seized brake calipers, deterioration of rubber components such as suspension bushes and engine mountings, and potential issues with the cooling system due to infrequent circulation of coolant. Given the absence of recorded advisories and the vehicle's low mileage profile, physical inspection should focus on age-related deterioration rather than high-mileage wear patterns. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres older than six years should be replaced as a matter of safety. The brake discs and calipers require careful inspection for surface corrosion and any evidence of seized caliper pistons, which can cause uneven braking or pulling to one side; a test drive should include several firm stops to confirm consistent pedal feel and that the brakes release cleanly without dragging. The exhaust system, including the cat heat shield and mounting rubbers, should be checked for corrosion-related weakness, and the underside of the vehicle examined for any structural rust that may have developed from age and seasonal road salt exposure rather than mileage. Additional checks appropriate for a low-mileage, ageing Yaris include verification of recent service history to confirm time-based servicing has been carried out, particularly for engine oil and filter changes, coolant renewal, brake fluid replacement, and spark plug and drive belt intervals, all of which are calendar-sensitive rather than mileage-dependent. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries that have sat partially discharged on a vehicle used infrequently often suffer reduced capacity. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks over bumps, which may indicate perished bushes or worn top mount bearings, and observe the steering for any vagueness or knocking that could point to deteriorated tie bar or anti-roll bar link bushes. Finally, confirm the timing chain or belt replacement interval has been respected, as interruption of this service on a 2010 Toyota Yaris can result in serious engine damage.