2005 Lexus IS200 2.0L Petrol · AF02 AAF

The most recent MOT recorded on 11 December 2021 resulted in a failure, with three major items and one advisory noted. The major failures comprised a fractured off‑side front coil spring, non‑functioning off‑side and near‑side front position lamps and an ineffective off‑side front windscreen wiper. The advisory related to a deteriorated rear registration plate. With only this MOT entry available, it is not possible to chart a clear trend, but the presence of multiple major defects at a single test suggests that the vehicle’s maintenance may have been irregular or that significant wear has begun to manifest without timely remedial work. The recorded mileage of 109 713 mi for a 2005 model equates to roughly 5 200 mi per annum, which is well below the average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often indicates periods of limited use or extended storage, both of which can be benign but also raise the possibility of age‑related degradation in components that are not mileage‑dependent, such as rubber seals, battery plates and corrosion of metal parts. The relatively low annual mileage does not, however, mitigate the impact of the fractured front coil spring, as suspension fatigue can develop from both load cycles and prolonged exposure to road irregularities, even at modest distances. A prospective buyer should verify that the off‑side front coil spring has been replaced with a genuine or approved equivalent and that the associated suspension bushings, strut mounts and anti‑roll bar links have been inspected for wear or damage. The front position lamps and windscreen wiper must be fully operational; a non‑functioning lamp can conceal a headlamp failure and a wiper that does not clear the glass can compromise visibility in rain. The rear registration plate should be replaced with a legible plate that meets current regulations. During a test drive, listen for clunking or excessive bounce from the front corner, watch for uneven tyre wear that could indicate lingering suspension issues, and confirm that all exterior lighting functions correctly. Given the vehicle’s age, independent of mileage, the buyer should conduct a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as ageing tyres can fail suddenly even if tread depth appears adequate. The 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested, as long periods of inactivity can lead to sulfation and reduced cranking power. Check for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches, underbody and suspension mounting points, which can be exacerbated by standing. Verify that the brake discs and pads show no excessive rust, scoring or uneven wear, and that the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been topped up and, where service intervals are time‑based, that they have been replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, as fluids degrade with age even when the vehicle is not driven heavily.