2001 Lexus IS (XE10)

The front lower ball joints on the XE10 double-wishbone suspension carry substantial dynamic loads. Over time, the internal nylon seat wears out and the protective rubber boot perishes, allowing water and road grit to enter and accelerate wear. In advanced cases, the ball joint develops severe play and can pull out of its housing entirely, causing the front wheel to collapse into the wing. This is a well-known MOT failure and safety risk on older UK cars.

Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise from the front wheels over small road bumps, Vague or wander in steering feel at motorway speeds...

Est. repair cost: £180–£400

First-generation IS models suffer from serious structural corrosion in the rear outer sills, jacking points, and rear wheel arch seams. Mud and road salt sprayed by the rear tyres collect in the unsealed cavity between the inner arch liner and outer sill panel. In the wet UK climate, moisture sits trapped against the foam sound deadening and untreated metal seams, rotting the sill from the inside out. Once rust bubbles through the exterior paintwork, extensive fabrication and welding are required for MOT compliance.

Symptoms: Visible bubbling or perforation in the paintwork along the sill ends ahead of the rear wheels, Crunching sound when lifting the vehicle on factory jacking points...

Est. repair cost: £350–£900