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Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) (2009-2018) reliability

At a glance

Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) built around 2018: about average at the MOT

Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) models built around 2018 fail their MOT about as often as similar cars the same age.

Looking at a Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) right now?

Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.

Key figure

16% of MOT tests on Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) models built around 2018 ended in a fail (retests included), against 16% for similar cars the same age.

Most common issue

The most common MOT issue on Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) models built around 2018 involves the tyres.

Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270)
No reliability rating: too close to call between ratings2009-2018SaloonDIESEL / PETROL / UNKNOWN

Based on 45,067 tests of Avensis models registered 2009-2018.

About 1 in 40 Avensis Mk3 (T270) MOTs (2.9%) failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. That's for cars built around 2018 (7 years old), all fuels combined.

Based on 2,026 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025). A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted. Nor is a fail with no later MOT on record.

About 1 in 25 Avensis Mk3 (T270) MOTs (4.3%) found at least one dangerous defect. These are cars built around 2018 (7 years old).

Based on 2,026 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025). Dangerous is the most serious grade an MOT gives: a direct risk to road safety.

Mk3 (T270) fail rate by age

Below typicalAbove typicalHigh (28% or more)Highest fail rateUK average for cars this age
Age / builtFail rateMOT tests
6 yearsbuilt around 2019
35713.5%
7 yearsbuilt around 2018
2,02615.7%
8 yearsbuilt around 2017
3,55717.5%
9 yearsbuilt around 2016
4,26117.6%
10 yearsbuilt around 2015
3,92720.8%
11 yearsbuilt around 2014
3,71521.8%
12 yearsbuilt around 2013
4,74622.5%
13 yearsbuilt around 2012
6,00425.4%
14 yearsbuilt around 2011
6,30626.4%
15 yearsbuilt around 2010
6,47227.8%
16 yearsbuilt around 2009
3,69627.7%

Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs. Highest fail rate at 15 years old.

How the Avensis Mk3 (T270) compares

At each age below, see how the Avensis Mk3 (T270) holds up against other cars the same age. The averages combine all fuel types.

Based on 131,775 tests across 15 Toyota models, built around 2018 (7 years old).

Below typicalAbove typicalHigh (28% or more)Highest fail rateToyota average
Age / builtFail rateMOT tests
6 yearsbuilt around 2019
35713.5%
7 yearsbuilt around 2018
2,02615.7%
8 yearsbuilt around 2017
3,55717.5%
9 yearsbuilt around 2016
4,26117.6%
10 yearsbuilt around 2015
3,92720.8%
11 yearsbuilt around 2014
3,71521.8%
12 yearsbuilt around 2013
4,74622.5%
13 yearsbuilt around 2012
6,00425.4%
14 yearsbuilt around 2011
6,30626.4%
15 yearsbuilt around 2010
6,47227.8%
16 yearsbuilt around 2009
3,69627.7%

Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs.

What to check before viewing

The model's most common MOT issues, turned into things you can ask about or look for.

Brake pads

High priority

Ask when the pads were last replaced and check the warning-light history.

Brake discs

High priority

Ask for the date and mileage of the last disc replacement; visually check for a deep wear lip and rust pitting on each disc.

Tyres

Worth checking

Check tread depth across the full width on all four; uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.

Suspension bushes and joints

Worth checking

Listen for knocks over speed bumps and ask about recent control-arm or anti-roll-bar work.

Vehicle-specific check

Worth checking

Check the car’s number plate on MOT Wise to see its own MOT history and any recalls for its build years.

Other saloons to compare

Other saloons, with each one's figures taken at the same age as the Avensis Mk3 (T270).

  1. 1

    Kia Optima

    Same body type, tested at the same age

    Fail rate
    15.5%
    Fail, no pass in 3 days
    2.2%
    Dangerous
    7.1%
    Still registered at 10 years
    82.9%

    More still registered at 10 years: 83%, against 72% for the Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270).

    3,355 MOT tests on cars built around 2018

  2. 2

    Volkswagen Passat

    Same body type, tested at the same age

    Fail rate
    14.9%
    Fail, no pass in 3 days
    2.2%
    Dangerous
    5.3%
    Still registered at 10 years
    83.2%

    More still registered at 10 years: 83%, against 72% for the Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270).

    10 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.

    14,646 MOT tests on cars built around 2018

  3. 3

    Mercedes-Benz CLA

    Same body type, tested at the same age

    Fail rate
    17.7%
    Fail, no pass in 3 days
    3%
    Dangerous
    7.5%
    Still registered at 10 years
    88.2%

    More still registered at 10 years: 88%, against 72% for the Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270).

    8 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.

    10,369 MOT tests on cars built around 2018

  4. 4

    Dacia Logan

    Same body type, tested at the same age

    Fail rate
    24.2%
    Fail, no pass in 3 days
    4%
    Dangerous
    6.3%
    Still registered at 10 years
    85.5%

    More still registered at 10 years: 86%, against 72% for the Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270).

    2,480 MOT tests on cars built around 2018

Fail rate
= the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests.
Fail, no pass in 3 days
= the share of MOT tests that failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted.
Dangerous
= the share of MOT tests where the tester marked a fault as dangerous. It is against the law to drive the car until it is fixed.
Still registered at 10 years
= the share of cars still registered (taxed or declared off the road) 10 years after they were first registered.

How many are still registered

72%of all Toyota Avensis cars first registered in 2014 to 2015 were still registered 10 years later. This is the whole model, not only this generation.

UK average for cars first registered in 2014 to 2015: 92% · Fewer than typical

The share still registered can reflect demand, the cost of repairs, exports, write-offs and how owners use the car. It isn't proof of how long the car lasts mechanically.

Source: DfT vehicle licensing statistics (VEH0124).

Recall context

45 recalls in all

9 of the 45 Avensis Mk3 (T270) recalls cover cars built in these years.

  • 2 Critical
  • 7 more

Top concerns

  • Airbag may not deploy
  • Rear suspension arm may separate
  • There is a possibility that the exhaust gas recirculation cooler could develop an internal coolant leak

For the exact car, check GOV.UK's recall checker with the number plate.

What has gone wrong on Avensis Mk3 (T270) cars built around 2018

The share of diesel cars that have ever failed an MOT on each part of the car. Based on 78 cars.

Structural systems

Suspension
10%
Emissions
6%
Steering
1%

Wear items

Tyres
24%
Lighting
13%
Brakes
13%
How Avensis Mk3 (T270) cars have aged

How Avensis Mk3 (T270) cars have aged

How fail rates have changed as these cars got older. Each line follows cars first registered in about the same year across several years of MOT data. Not a prediction for any one car.

0%10%20%30%3579111315Age at MOTBuilt around 2018, 3 years old at the time of MOT: 12.6% (1,063 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2018, 4 years old at the time of MOT: 11.9% (1,031 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2018, 5 years old at the time of MOT: 14.5% (1,015 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2018, 6 years old at the time of MOT: 15.5% (1,003 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2018, 7 years old at the time of MOT: 17.1% (990 tests, 2025 data)2018Built around 2017, 4 years old at the time of MOT: 10.8% (2,146 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2017, 5 years old at the time of MOT: 12.2% (2,101 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2017, 6 years old at the time of MOT: 14.3% (2,048 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2017, 7 years old at the time of MOT: 14.9% (2,008 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2017, 8 years old at the time of MOT: 17.0% (1,944 tests, 2025 data)2017Built around 2016, 5 years old at the time of MOT: 12.1% (2,949 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2016, 6 years old at the time of MOT: 13.9% (2,934 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2016, 7 years old at the time of MOT: 15.1% (2,864 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2016, 8 years old at the time of MOT: 15.6% (2,748 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2016, 9 years old at the time of MOT: 16.6% (2,625 tests, 2025 data)2016Built around 2015, 6 years old at the time of MOT: 14.9% (2,664 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2015, 7 years old at the time of MOT: 16.8% (2,595 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2015, 8 years old at the time of MOT: 17.8% (2,498 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2015, 9 years old at the time of MOT: 18.1% (2,318 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2015, 10 years old at the time of MOT: 19.9% (2,220 tests, 2025 data)2015Built around 2014, 7 years old at the time of MOT: 16.8% (2,522 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2014, 8 years old at the time of MOT: 18.6% (2,500 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2014, 9 years old at the time of MOT: 19.9% (2,364 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2014, 10 years old at the time of MOT: 19.5% (2,236 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2014, 11 years old at the time of MOT: 20.0% (2,107 tests, 2025 data)2014Built around 2013, 8 years old at the time of MOT: 18.2% (2,870 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2013, 9 years old at the time of MOT: 20.2% (2,787 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2013, 10 years old at the time of MOT: 20.6% (2,602 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2013, 11 years old at the time of MOT: 21.9% (2,504 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2013, 12 years old at the time of MOT: 21.4% (2,334 tests, 2025 data)2013Built around 2012, 9 years old at the time of MOT: 20.3% (4,436 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2012, 10 years old at the time of MOT: 20.8% (4,195 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2012, 11 years old at the time of MOT: 22.1% (4,077 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2012, 12 years old at the time of MOT: 22.9% (3,843 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2012, 13 years old at the time of MOT: 24.5% (3,599 tests, 2025 data)2012Built around 2011, 10 years old at the time of MOT: 22.0% (4,174 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2011, 11 years old at the time of MOT: 23.1% (3,986 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2011, 12 years old at the time of MOT: 24.6% (3,757 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2011, 13 years old at the time of MOT: 24.3% (3,443 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2011, 14 years old at the time of MOT: 26.2% (3,208 tests, 2025 data)2011Built around 2010, 11 years old at the time of MOT: 24.1% (5,410 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2010, 12 years old at the time of MOT: 24.5% (5,055 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2010, 13 years old at the time of MOT: 25.2% (4,636 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2010, 14 years old at the time of MOT: 26.1% (4,282 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2010, 15 years old at the time of MOT: 27.2% (3,779 tests, 2025 data)2010Built around 2009, 12 years old at the time of MOT: 25.1% (5,369 tests, 2021 data)Built around 2009, 13 years old at the time of MOT: 25.6% (5,070 tests, 2022 data)Built around 2009, 14 years old at the time of MOT: 25.9% (4,524 tests, 2023 data)Built around 2009, 15 years old at the time of MOT: 28.1% (4,188 tests, 2024 data)Built around 2009, 16 years old at the time of MOT: 27.7% (3,696 tests, 2025 data)2009
First registered around 2018First registered around 2017First registered around 2016First registered around 2015
Mk3 (T270) variants compared

Avensis Mk3 (T270) variants built around 2018

The fail rate for each Avensis Mk3 (T270) variant, grouped by fuel. Each row counts fails per MOT test, the same way as the main fail rate chart.

Diesel

  • AVENSIS16.8%1,458 tests

Petrol

  • AVENSIS12.7%568 tests
All generations of this modelEnough data

Most common issues on Toyota Avensises of this age

This list covers every Toyota Avensis built around 2018, whichever generation it is. We don't have a defect list for the Mk3 (T270) on its own.

Most common advisories and fails

In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one

  1. 1
    Advisory

    Tyre worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge

    18.7%
    Advisory: 539Fail: 47 (8% of the times it was found)
  2. 2
    Advisory

    Brake pads wearing thin

    9.9%
    Advisory: 208Fail: 37 (15% of the times it was found)
  3. 3
    Advisory

    Suspension arm pin or bush worn, but not moving too much

    7.9%
    Advisory: 234Fail: 34 (13% of the times it was found)
  4. 4
    Advisory

    Brake disc worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened

    7.3%
    Advisory: 194Fail: 4 (2% of the times it was found)
  5. 5
    Advisory

    Tyre slightly damaged, cracking or perishing

    6.8%
    Advisory: 169Fail: 21 (11% of the times it was found)

Based on 2,026 tests

Looking at a Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) right now?

Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.

Frequently asked questions

Built around 2018 (7 years old), the Toyota Avensis Mk3 (T270) (2009-2018) fails MOTs at about the rate typical for this age. This is based on 2,026 7-year-old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.

*The build year is worked out from the date a car was first used on UK roads. For most cars this matches when it was registered, but imports may differ by a few months.

Data sourced from DVSA MOT History API. From 45,067 MOT tests on Toyota Avensises first registered between 2009-2018. These figures are a guide, not a guarantee.