Motoring Today

Toyota Yaris MOT reliability

Reliability from 9 Toyota Yaris cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Toyota Yaris at MOT?

Across 1 Toyota Yaris cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 100%. 100% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 10 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are suspension, tyres and lighting & electrical, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
100%
Valid MOT
1 / 1
Median MOT left
10 mo
Top failure
Suspension

Motoring Today currently lists 4 Toyota Yaris models available, starting from £8,784, or a representative £198 monthly on finance. When considering a used Yaris, its MOT history offers valuable insights into potential maintenance areas. Based on a substantial 440,929 real UK MOT tests, the Toyota Yaris achieves a national pass rate of 79.28%. While this reflects the condition of cars presented for test, it's important to remember that reliability can be influenced by age, mileage, and owner maintenance rather than the badge alone. Analysis of failed MOTs reveals key areas to inspect before purchasing. The most common reason for failure, accounting for 38% of all defects, is 'Lighting & electrical'. This often involves blown bulbs, faulty wiring, or issues with headlights and indicators – simple checks that can save you money. 'Suspension' failures follow at 16%, suggesting potential wear in components like shock absorbers or bushes, which can impact ride comfort and handling. 'Brakes' contribute 15% of failures, indicating concerns such as worn pads, discs, or braking efficiency. Other significant failure categories include 'Visibility (windscreen & wipers)' at 12% and a general 'Other' category also at 12%. For any used Yaris, it's prudent to thoroughly check all lights, wipers, windscreen for chips or cracks, and listen for unusual noises from the suspension or brakes during a test drive. These common failure points are excellent starting places for pre-purchase inspections, helping you make an informed decision.

100First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
1 / 1
100% road-ready
Median MOT left
10 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Toyota Yaris

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 9 Toyota Yaris cars with DVSA test history in our stock (15 recorded failure items, 1 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Suspension533%
Tyres427%
Lighting & electrical427%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)213%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Toyota Yaris cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Toyota Yaris?
Based on real national DVSA MOT tests, the Toyota Yaris has a pass rate of 79.28%. This figure is derived from 440,929 tests conducted across the UK.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Toyota Yaris?
The primary reasons for MOT failure on a Toyota Yaris are 'Lighting & electrical' at 38%, followed by 'Suspension' at 16%, and 'Brakes' at 15%. Other common failures include 'Other' and 'Visibility (windscreen & wipers)', both at 12%.
Is the Toyota Yaris reliable?
While the MOT pass rate of 79.28% reflects cars presented for testing, it's important to note that actual lifetime reliability can vary. Failures often cluster in older vehicles and those that have not been regularly maintained.
What should I check before buying a used Toyota Yaris?
Focus on areas prone to MOT failure: lighting, including all bulbs and indicators; the suspension for unusual noises or uneven ride height; the brakes for effectiveness and disc/pad wear; and the windscreen and wipers for damage or poor operation.
How many Toyota Yaris models are currently available and what is the cheapest price?
As of 1 October 2026, there are 4 Toyota Yaris models currently for sale. The cheapest available model starts from £8784, or from £198 per month as a representative finance example, subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Toyota Yaris?
Across 9 Toyota Yaris cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are suspension, tyres and lighting & electrical (suspension account for 33% of recorded failures).

More Toyota Yaris resources