Used Toyota Aygo

What to know before buying: Toyota Aygo

From 4 video reviews and 1 forum thread · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The Aygo is at its best in town: a responsive small engine, light steering and compact dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre and park.[1][4][5]
• In a 2006 test, the 68 hp 1.0-litre Aygo consumed about 4.5 l/100 km.[1]one source
• The Aygo is compromised on longer motorway trips: the early car was criticised for overly light steering, while the 2014 second-generation car had wind and road noise and was easily buffeted.[1][5]
• It is a four-seat city car with a modest boot; the 2014 second generation offers slightly more room but still has only two rear seats.[1][5]

Typical faults

• The combined exhaust manifold and catalytic converter can corrode and begin leaking; warning signs include a hissing sound and sometimes soot deposits.[2][3]

  1.0 petrol

• Older Aygos should be checked for structural corrosion, especially the front and rear subframes, their body mounting points and the sills.[2]one source
• Water can enter the boot through a perished glass-tailgate seal or high-level brake-light seal; failed door seals can also leave the cabin carpets wet.[2][3][4]
• The clutch is described as a weak point and can wear quickly; slipping shows as engine revs rising without matching acceleration.[2][4]
• The cabin blower motor can fail; the part is inexpensive, but replacement requires removing most of the dashboard, making labour costly.[2]one source
• The front anti-roll-bar drop links commonly wear and knock over uneven roads.[2][3]

Which engine and version to take

• Prefer the chain-driven 998 cc 1.0-litre petrol engine: the sources describe it as simple and durable, with examples frequently reaching 160,000–170,000 miles.[2][3]

What to avoid

• The rare 1.4-litre diesel is not recommended: the source says it is no more economical than the 1.0 petrol, less reliable and even less powerful.[2]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Demand service history. Regular fresh oil is especially important for the 1.0-litre engine's timing-chain life; neglected high-mileage engines can rattle.[2]one source
• Review inspection records and examine the subframes, their mounts and the sills. Crumbling or perforated rust is a reason to walk away.[2]one source
• Lift the boot floor and inspect the spare-wheel well, then feel the cabin carpets. Standing water, dampness or a musty smell indicates a leak.[2][3][4]
• On the test drive, select fourth gear and accelerate hard: rising revs without matching speed indicate clutch slip. Check the clutch biting point too.[2]one source
• Test the blower at every speed and ensure it switches off. Also check the electric and pop-out rear windows, indicators and radio.[2][4]
• Start the engine and listen around the exhaust manifold: hissing, blowing or soot around the joint points to a leak.[2][3]
• Drive over an uneven road and listen for front-end knocking; worn anti-roll-bar drop links are a common cause.[2][3]

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — Tests: «Toyota Aygo» - mazs un vienkāršs · forum
2. [2]Scottish Car Clan — What Goes Wrong With A TOYOTA AYGO? Buyers Guide & Review · ▶ video
3. [3]Scottish Car Clan — I Bought A Bargain TOYOTA AYGO... Or Did I? · ▶ video
4. [4]High Peak Autos — Should You Buy a TOYOTA AYGO? (Test Drive & Review) · ▶ video
5. [5]High Peak Autos — Should You Buy a TOYOTA AYGO? (Test Drive & Review 2014 MK2) · ▶ video

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