2007 Toyota Prius 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · AF07 KFV

A consistent run of clean MOT passes is the defining feature of this third-generation Prius, with the most recent test on 16 January 2026 concluded with no advisories or failures noted and the prior pass on 18 January 2025 following the same pattern. The absence of recorded defects across consecutive tests points to a stable mechanical condition rather than any documented deterioration in key wear areas. The repeated appearance of FAILED entries immediately preceding the PASS entries on both 2025-01-18 and 2026-01-13 is worth noting, though in each case no specific defects were recorded against the failure, which commonly indicates administrative reasons such as a previous test certificate not being present or the vehicle being presented before a previous pass had expired. The defect history itself does not point to any chronic mechanical weakness, and no advisory categories have been flagged on the public record. With 171,374 miles accumulated over roughly nineteen years, this Prius has covered approximately 9,020 miles annually, a figure broadly in line with typical mixed-use expectations for a hybrid of this age. The mileage progression shows steady accumulation rather than sudden spikes or extended lay-up periods, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular service throughout its life. There are no multi-year gaps in the testing record that would indicate prolonged standing, which is mechanically significant given the well-documented sensitivity of earlier Prius models to hybrid battery degradation and 12V auxiliary battery failure when left unused. The continuous annual testing pattern therefore offers reasonable reassurance that the powertrain and ancillary systems have not suffered from extended inactivity. For a prospective buyer evaluating this car, the test drive should focus on the areas most commonly associated with high-mileage hybrid vehicles, even though none have yet surfaced in the MOT record. Listen carefully for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as worn compliance bushings, stabiliser link joints, and lower control arm bushes are typical wear items on high-mileage Toyota models of this era. On a twisty road or during moderate braking, assess steering precision and watch for any pulling to one side, which could indicate worn front strut bearings or uneven tyre wear often masked by the low rotating mass at the front axle. Inspect the underside thoroughly for any corrosion on the rear suspension beam mountings and exhaust heat shielding, both known weak points on chassis of this vintage. The hybrid system itself should be evaluated separately from the MOT history. During a sustained drive, monitor the energy monitor for any erratic battery state of charge behaviour or sudden drops in assist power, as the original nickel-metal hydride pack in a 2007 Prius commonly requires replacement or reconditioning between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. Check for any warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the master warning, hybrid system warning, or any indication of P0A80 battery block deterioration. The footwell parking brake should be tested on an incline to confirm full holding capability, as rear drum adjuster mechanisms can seize with age. Finally, verify the service history includes regular engine oil and inverter coolant changes at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, as neglected coolant renewal in the inverter stack is a known cause of expensive failure on these vehicles.