2016 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · BW65 AAY

The most recent DVSA examination on 23 December 2025 resulted in a PASS classification, following an unusually close FAIL on the preceding day which recorded no defects in either instance, suggesting the latter entry is likely an aborted test or administrative anomaly rather than a genuine mechanical rejection. Across the recorded MOT history, every annual test from January 2023 onwards has been passed without any advisories or defects being noted, which presents a stable and consistently maintained roadworthiness profile. The absence of recurring advisories relating to suspension components, brake condition, exhaust integrity, or corrosion indicates that the vehicle has been kept in sound mechanical order from a statutory testing perspective, though the very high annual mileage warrants additional physical scrutiny beyond what an MOT pass can confirm. With 280,016 miles recorded over a ten-year life, this Prius has averaged approximately 28,000 miles per year, which is substantially above the national average of around 7,500 to 9,000 miles annually. Such intensive use is particularly significant for a hybrid vehicle of this age, as the petrol engine, hybrid transaxle, inverter cooling system, and high-voltage battery pack have all been subjected to considerable operational stress. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent and there are no extended gaps suggesting prolonged periods of standing, which is generally favourable for avoiding calendar-related deterioration but does mean that mechanical wear items such as suspension bushes, coil springs, brake discs, and engine ancillaries are likely approaching the latter portion of their service life. Given the clean MOT record, a prospective buyer should concentrate on age-and-mileage-specific inspections that fall outside the standard test scope. On a physical walkaround, the tyres warrant close attention for uneven shoulder wear, which can indicate worn suspension bushes or tracking misalignment, as well as sidewall perishing from a decade of UV exposure even if tread depth remains adequate. The brake calipers, particularly on the rear axle, should be checked for binding or seized slide pins, which is a common issue on high-mileage vehicles that have seen continuous use, and the discs should be inspected for lipping or corrosion pitting. The hybrid system battery health should ideally be verified through a Toyota dealer diagnostic, and the inverter coolant and engine coolant should be confirmed as recently serviced, as degradation of these fluids can lead to costly component failure. During a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, which would suggest worn anti-roll bar drop links, wishbone bushes, or top mounts. The continuously variable transmission should operate smoothly without any shuddering or whining, and the transition between electric and petrol propulsion should be seamless, with no unexpected surges or warning messages on the instrument display. Verify that the 12V auxiliary battery is in good condition, as a failing unit can cause erratic hybrid system behaviour and is a frequent cause of starting issues. Finally, request evidence of recent servicing including oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, and any work carried out on the hybrid battery cooling fan, as a comprehensive service history will corroborate the stable MOT trend and provide confidence that this high-mileage example has been conscientiously maintained.