2016 Toyota Estima 2.4L Petrol · LW57 BBF

The 2016 Toyota Estima’s most recent MOT test on 26 June 2025 at 147,146 miles passed, though with critical tyre wear noted on both rear axles—tyres were running close to the legal limit and exhibiting uneven edge wear. This suggests a pattern of deferred maintenance, as the same issue recurred at the front tyres in June 2024. The suspension history reveals persistent wear: rear trailing arm bushes were flagged in three consecutive tests (March 2022, May 2023, and June 2023), with the offside rear shock absorber also showing oil misting in 2023. While no major failures have escalated into structural risks, the steady recurrence of suspension and tyre advisories indicates a vehicle that has not undergone systematic upkeep. The most recent test’s passing does not negate the underlying trend of component fatigue, particularly in areas prone to high mileage stress. The mileage progression of 14,715 miles annually over the past decade is unusually high for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either consistent heavy use or prolonged periods of neglect. Between the 2022 and 2023 tests, the odometer jumped from 116,080 to 128,239 miles in just two months—a rapid accumulation of 12,159 miles—before the vehicle failed its MOT on 31 May 2023. This spike, combined with the failure of minor but essential components like position lamps (a clear oversight), implies either erratic ownership or a lack of pre-MOT preparation. The gap between the 2023 failure and the subsequent pass in June 2023 (just one day apart) further raises suspicion of rushed repairs or incomplete servicing, as the same suspension and shock absorber issues persisted. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear suspension components, particularly the trailing arm bushes and shock absorbers, as these have shown consistent wear and leakage. The steering rack inner joint also warrants close examination, given the play detected in 2023. Tyre condition is equally critical—both rear tyres in the 2025 test were dangerously close to the legal limit, and the front tyres failed in 2024. Look for uneven tread wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues or prolonged underinflation. Additionally, check for corrosion on the subframe or wheel arches, as high mileage vehicles often develop hidden structural weaknesses. The electrical advisories from 2023 (non-functional lamps) should prompt a thorough check of wiring and bulb connections, as these are often neglected but can pose safety risks.