2012 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric · LY12 YPA

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT examination in October 2025, although the presence of multiple advisories indicates a downward trend in the mechanical condition of the chassis and running gear. While the history shows periods of stability in 2022 and 2024, the recurring nature of wear-related advisories in 2023 and 2025 suggests that the vehicle is now reaching a stage where several major consumables and suspension components are nearing the end of their service life. With a recorded mileage of 157,332 miles over a fourteen year period, the vehicle has averaged approximately 11,238 miles per year. This usage rate is considered typical for this model and suggests consistent use rather than prolonged periods of standing. However, this level of mileage places significant cumulative stress on the drivetrain, suspension bushings, and braking system, meaning the buyer should expect a higher requirement for preventative maintenance compared to a lower-mileage example. Particular attention must be paid to the front suspension and tyre condition. The most recent advisories regarding worn suspension arm pins and bushes on both the nearside and offside front suggest a degradation of the rubber components that maintain wheel alignment. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces and feel for any instability or wandering in the steering. Furthermore, the reports of rear tyres being worn on the edges indicate a potential alignment issue or uneven camber, which should be verified by inspecting the tread depth across the full width of the tyre. The buyer should also investigate whether the brake pads and front shock absorbers mentioned in the 2023 report were ever replaced, as these were noted as wearing thin and misting oil respectively. Misting shock absorbers are a precursor to complete failure, which can lead to poor vehicle handling and increased braking distances. Given the high mileage, it is also essential to verify the service history for transmission fluid changes and to check the health of the hybrid battery system, as these are critical high-cost items that typically require attention around this mileage threshold.