2002 Lexus IS300 3.0L Petrol · EU52 CFZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2002 Lexus IS300 was conducted on 10 December 2025 and resulted in a pass, mirroring the outcomes of the three prior examinations in October 2024, October 2023, and October 2022. No items have been recorded as failed or as major defects across this four-test sequence, which indicates a stable and consistent maintenance trajectory. The only notations carried forward are minor advisories relating to a nearside rear child seat preventing full inspection of the adult seat belt and the presence of undertrays and covers that obscure certain testable items. These advisories are administrative observations and carry no direct mechanical defect implication; however, they do mean that the examiner could not fully access components underneath the vehicle, so any prospective buyer should personally verify the underfloor and concealed areas before purchase. With a recorded mileage of 66,047 miles over approximately 24 years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 2,750 miles annually, which is well below typical usage for a car of this age. Such low mileage suggests either genuinely light running or extended periods of standing, both of which carry distinct mechanical considerations. Long periods of inactivity can promote corrosion on brake discs, binding of brake calipers due to corroded slide pins or pistons, deterioration of the 12V battery, and drying or perishing of rubber components such as suspension bushes, drive belts, and hoses. Conversely, low mileage does generally mean reduced wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, gearbox, and clutch. Given the clean advisory-free MOT history and the low annual mileage profile, practical physical checks take precedence over defect-specific concerns. Tyres should be inspected carefully for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres fitted will likely be several years old. Brake discs should be examined for surface corrosion, particularly at the outer edges, and the calipers should be checked for smooth operation and even pad wear, as standing vehicles frequently develop uneven pad deposits or seized sliders that cause pulling or juddering under load. Fluid condition is also age-sensitive; brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid (this model uses an automatic gearbox) all degrade over calendar years and should be confirmed as recently renewed regardless of the low odometer reading. Further age-appropriate items to verify include the condition of all auxiliary drive belts, radiator and heater hoses, and the exhaust system, where internal corrosion can develop from condensation accumulation during short journeys or extended standing. The 12V battery should be load tested, as batteries older than five years frequently fail without warning, and the undertrays noted in the advisories should be removed for a thorough inspection of the steering rack, front suspension arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and rear suspension bushes for any perishing or cracking. A careful road test should follow, listening for suspension clonks over uneven surfaces, feeling for brake shudder or pulling under firm application, and observing the transmission for smooth and timely changes. Confirming a comprehensive service history with documented time-based fluid renewals will further substantiate the evident good condition reflected in the MOT record.