2017 Toyota Prius C 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · AY66 FOU

A recurring lighting deficiency defines the MOT history of this 2017 Toyota Prius C, with both recorded failures relating to front position lamp and rear fog lamp issues, and an advisory from the most recent test on 27 October 2022 confirming that the front position lamps were still presenting an incorrect colour on both sides. The 2020 failure was a major defect for a missing rear fog lamp, and the 2021 entry shows a pass immediately following a fail on the same date for a non-functioning offside front position lamp, suggesting the vehicle was repaired and re-presented the same day or shortly after. Although each individual lighting issue is relatively minor in isolation, the pattern of repeated electrical and lamp-related defects across four consecutive test cycles indicates a consistent area of non-compliance that a prospective buyer should treat as a recurring risk rather than an isolated event. The 2020 and 2021 tests were otherwise clean with no advisories recorded, and there is no documented evidence of structural corrosion, brake, suspension, or exhaust concerns in the available history. The recorded mileage of 77,693 miles over approximately nine years equates to an average accumulation of around 8,600 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no extended gaps between tests that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the mileage progression across the 2020, 2021, and 2022 tests appears consistent and orderly, indicating steady regular use rather than erratic or heavy-duty operation. From a mechanical standpoint, this level of usage implies moderate wear on consumable items such as brake pads and discs, tyres, and hybrid system components, but does not place the vehicle in either a low-mileage or high-mileage bracket that would necessitate particular concern about dried seals, seized components, or excessive drivetrain fatigue. The continuous annual testing since 2020 supports the impression of a car kept in active service rather than stored. Given the specific defects recorded, a buyer should pay close attention to the complete exterior lighting system during a pre-purchase inspection, particularly verifying that both front position lamps emit the correct colour output, that all rear fog lamp functions are present and operational, and that there are no warning lights illuminated on the hybrid system dashboard. While the recorded defects are lamp-related rather than mechanical, repeated electrical faults can sometimes point to underlying issues with wiring integrity, earth points, or moisture ingress within light units, so it would be prudent to inspect the condition of the lamp housings, connectors, and surrounding bodywork for signs of water staining, corrosion, or non-original repairs. On a test drive, attention should be given to confirming that the hybrid system transitions cleanly between petrol and electric propulsion, that the dashboard displays no warning messages, and that braking feels progressive and consistent without any binding or pulling that might suggest seized calipers given the vehicle's age. Beyond the documented lighting history, a prospective buyer should carry out the standard physical checks expected of a nine-year-old hybrid, including a thorough examination of the underbody and suspension components for any corrosion or perished bushes, as the MOT history does not record any advisories but also does not cover items that may have developed since the last test. The tyre sidewalls and tread depth should be inspected for even wear patterns, the brake discs examined for lipping or scoring, and the exhaust system checked for blowing joints or corrosion around the mounting points. For a hybrid of this age, it is also sensible to verify that the 12V auxiliary battery has been recently replaced, as the vehicle's electrical behaviour during startup and accessory operation can be affected by a weak auxiliary battery. Overall, while the MOT record is largely free of structural or mechanical advisories, the recurring lighting defects warrant specific verification and, if present, prompt rectification before purchase.