2002 Lexus IS300 3.0L Petrol · DA02 AOX

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 September 2025 resulted in a Pass, with only a single advisory recorded for an oil leak described as not excessive, which represents a clear and continued improvement over the preceding two years in which the vehicle attracted multiple advisories across structural, suspension, and braking categories. Comparing the 2024 and 2023 test results, the advisory count has reduced markedly, the previously fractured offside front coil spring from the September 2023 failure has been rectified, and the repeated stop lamp non-function defects and the dangerous secondary brake defect from 2022 have not recurred, suggesting that the owner has addressed the more serious items progressively. The persistent reappearance of structural and suspension component corrosion advisories over four consecutive tests, alongside recurring parking brake efficiency warnings, indicates that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, these are areas of ongoing wear that a buyer should not ignore as they may progress towards failure in future tests. The recorded mileage of 167,632 miles over approximately 24 years equates to an average annual accumulation of around 6,985 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests consistent rather than sporadic use. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record that would imply long periods of standing, which is favourable as prolonged inactivity often leads to brake caliper seizure, brake disc corrosion, and deterioration of oil and coolant seals. The mileage pattern indicates that the engine, transmission, and drivetrain have been worked regularly, which generally promotes internal lubrication, though it also means that high-wear components such as clutches, timing chains, and suspension linkages have accumulated substantial operational hours and should be regarded as life-limited items at this stage. Given the recurring advisories relating to vehicle structure corrosion and suspension component corrosion, a prospective buyer should arrange for the vehicle to be placed on a ramp for a thorough physical inspection of the underbody, paying particular attention to chassis rails, suspension subframes, and mounting points for evidence of advanced corrosion that may exceed the advisory threshold at the next test. The nearside and offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear advisories from the 2024 test are particularly relevant, as worn bushes typically produce clonking or knocking noises over speed bumps and uneven road surfaces, imprecise steering, and uneven inner-edge tyre wear that can be checked on the existing tyres. On a test drive, listen for any suspension rattle or knocking from the front end, feel for vagueness or wandering in the steering, and verify that the vehicle tracks straight under braking without pulling, as the offside front coil spring failure recorded in 2023 demonstrates a known weakness in this area. Also inspect the front coil springs themselves for any signs of corrosion pitting or cracking, as a single failure often indicates that the opposite spring is approaching a similar condition. The persistent parking brake efficiency advisory across multiple tests warrants a specific handbrake test on a slight incline to confirm the mechanism holds the vehicle firmly, as a marginal secondary brake can quickly deteriorate to dangerous status, as evidenced by the September 2022 failure. The recurring oil leak advisory, present on four of the last six tests, suggests a slow but persistent engine or gearbox oil weep that should be monitored with regular underbonnet and underfloor checks, with particular attention to the valve cover gasket, sump plug, and rear main seal area common to this generation of Lexus engines. The high overall mileage of 167,632 miles also means that a buyer should verify the timing belt or chain service history according to manufacturer schedule, confirm recent replacement of coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid to combat calendar-based degradation, and check the 12-volt battery for age and holding capacity. Finally, given the vehicle's age, inspect all tyres carefully for sidewall cracking and perishing even if the tread depth is adequate, examine the brake discs for lipping and surface corrosion, and ensure that the service book is fully stamped to substantiate the mechanical upkeep claimed by the seller.