2006 Lexus GS300 3.0L Petrol · G16 DJT

The most recent MOT on 29 May 2026 was passed, but it carried three advisories: front brake pads are wearing thin, the front track‑rod end ball‑joint dust cover is damaged, and the rear shock absorbers show light oil misting. Compared with earlier tests the pattern is clearly improving; the 2017 MOT recorded a dangerous failure on the front brake pads and multiple lighting failures, while the 2014 and 2013 entries show only isolated tyre concerns. Since 2017 the vehicle has avoided any outright failures, suggesting that the major safety items have been addressed and that the current maintenance regime is holding the car in a generally acceptable state, albeit with a few wear items now approaching service limits. At 192,281 miles on a 2006 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 9,600 mi per year, which sits squarely within normal UK usage for a vehicle of this age. The mileage does not indicate any unusually high‑stress periods, nor are there obvious gaps that would suggest long periods of storage; however, the relatively modest annual figure does mean that many components may be more affected by calendar ageing than by mileage wear, especially rubber and fluid‑based items. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front braking system. The pads are already thin and will need replacement soon; inspect the discs for the pitting and scoring noted in earlier MOTs and be alert for any brake shudder, pulsation, or increased pedal travel during a test drive. The damaged front track‑rod dust cover should be examined for signs of corrosion or dirt ingress that could affect the steering knuckle; any looseness or clunk when turning the wheel at low speed would merit further investigation. The rear shocks’ oil mist suggests deteriorating seals – check for any fluid on the shock bodies, reduced damping feel, or a pronounced bounce when the car is driven over bumps. Tyre condition also warrants scrutiny: previous advisories highlighted rear tyre wear close to the legal limit and inner‑edge wear on the nearside rear, as well as sidewall damage on the off‑side front. Verify that tread depth exceeds 3 mm on all four tyres, that sidewalls are free of cracks, cuts or bulges, and that the tyres are evenly worn, which would indicate healthy suspension geometry. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive age‑related inspection is advisable. Examine the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Inspect all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid – and consider a full change if service records are missing, since fluids degrade with time even at low mileage. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the chassis, especially around wheel arches, suspension bushes and under‑tray fittings, and verify that the exhaust system is sound apart from the minor leak noted in 2016. Finally, confirm that the timing belt (or chain, depending on the engine variant) has been replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s interval, typically around 100 000 mi, as failure of this component would be catastrophic. A thorough visual check, a careful road test for steering feel, braking performance and any unusual noises, and a review of the service book will together give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the immediate work required.