Toyota Yaris - Yaris With Light Bump/Timing Chain Fail

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Sun 2 Sep 2012 16:04
Toyota Yaris - Yaris With Light Bump/Timing Chain Fail - blueshore

Hi there HJ, thank you for sharing your great site

I wonder if I can ask a little advice on buying a used Yaris

I am considering getting an approx 8 year old, 1.0litre 3 door model.

I have just seen one privately advertised with 55 plate, which has had light bump 5 years back, 85,000 miles on clock, 9 months MOT, and has had new clutch and new timing chain fitted. Owners say they had it for past 5 years. They are looking for £1800.

I am just wondering is failed clutch and timing belt a steer clear, or is this normal for this mileage and age of Yaris ? Or could this indicate engine problems or poor maintenance eg infrequent oil changes?

Is it a risky purchase - and what tell tale signs should I be looking out for, that indicate it might be a troublesome car?

Many thanks for any advice.

Edited by blueshore on 02/09/2012 at 16:06

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Sun 2 Sep 2012 16:53
Toyota Yaris - Yaris With Light Bump/Timing Chain Fail - madf

Unusual for Yaris clutches to fail... Driving style I guess.

Check for: take up near middle of pedal travle, NOT at top, judder starting from rest in 1st gear - try a few revs- odd noises. It is hydraulic so can be bled but auto adjusting.

Timing chains are long lasting 100k miles if the oil is changed regularly. And is semi/fully synthetic. Check for rattles from timing chain area on start up from side of engine or odd whirrring noise (wear to cover).

You don't say which engine or model so price may be high/low or just right.

Watch for rust round rear petrol tank filler pipe - tank to filler.

Generally very relaible: Best small car imo. No inherent nasties.

Bump? Where? Look underneath for buckled body members.Indicates a cheap repair..

Two in family.. 1.0 and 1.4 diesel.

Read the HJ Buyers Guide: says it all.

Edited by madf on 02/09/2012 at 16:56

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Tue 4 Sep 2012 14:02
Toyota Yaris - Yaris With Light Bump/Timing Chain Fail - blueshore

Many thanks for reply, I will keep these in mind.

The model is T2 VVTi 3-door hatchback, petrol, manual transmission, 998cc, silver, 55 plate (year 2005).

The described light bump is on 'bonnet and bumper'.

Owner says they get over 40mpg and have had it over 5 years, so its maybe worth a look.

Many thanks again for info

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