2021 Lexus ES 2.5L Hybrid electric · 5636 MM

The 2021 Lexus ES received its latest MOT test on 2026-09-01, which resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded. This follows a consistent pattern of passing MOT examinations over the past three years, indicating a generally stable maintenance record and no immediate signs of worsening mechanical issues. The absence of failures or major advisories in the most recent tests suggests that the vehicle has been maintained to a satisfactory standard, though the advisory from 2024-05-24—indicating offside front tyre wear close to the legal limit—remains a notable point of attention. This advisory alone does not disqualify the vehicle from passing the MOT, but it does warrant closer inspection to determine the extent of tyre degradation and whether further wear is imminent. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 42,100 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,420 miles per year, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a five-year-old Lexus ES. This level of mileage is not excessively high for the age of the car, suggesting moderate usage without extreme wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, or fluids. However, the absence of a service history or mileage gaps in the provided data could imply either infrequent servicing or periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have allowed certain components to degrade over time. For instance, standing for extended periods can lead to brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid separation in the brake fluid reservoir, while tyre sidewall perishing from age—even at moderate mileage—remains a concern for vehicles over five years old. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination of this Lexus ES include the front and rear tyres, particularly focusing on the offside front tyre mentioned in the 2024 advisory. Look for signs of uneven wear patterns, such as edge wear or inner-edge wear, which could indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or steering component wear. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the suspension, especially when cornering or over bumps, as this may signal worn suspension bushes or coil spring degradation. Additionally, check for any brake shudder or pulsation, which could suggest warped discs or binding calipers. Inspect the brake discs and pads for signs of corrosion or excessive thickness wear, and verify that the calipers move freely without binding when the brakes are applied. Beyond mechanical components, pay particular attention to the vehicle’s fluids, which should be checked for freshness and condition. Given the age of the car, the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant should be replaced according to Lexus’s recommended service intervals, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. The 12V battery should also be tested for health, as prolonged standing can lead to sulphation or reduced capacity. Examine the vehicle’s exterior for signs of rust, particularly around the underbody, wheel arches, and wheel wells, as Lexus models can be prone to corrosion in these areas if not properly maintained. Finally, verify that the service book or service history is up to date, as this will provide critical insight into the vehicle’s maintenance schedule and any past issues that may not have surfaced in the MOT records. If the service history is incomplete, consider arranging a thorough mechanical inspection to address potential hidden wear or component failures.