2009 Toyota Prius 1.5L Electric · FD58 KBZ

The most recent MOT, dated 25 October 2025, was passed but recorded several advisories, notably severe deterioration of the front suspension arm ball‑joint dust covers and deteriorated front and rear registration plates. Over the preceding six years the vehicle has moved from a single major failure in 2020 to a pattern of minor advisory items, with no further failures since 2022. This suggests a generally stable maintenance trajectory, although the recurring front‑suspension and anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint play indicates that wear on those components is progressing and may soon require corrective work. At 115,058 miles the car averages roughly 6,800 miles per annum, which is typical for a 2009 model. The mileage does not point to excessive short‑term abuse, and there are no evident large gaps that would imply long periods of storage. Consequently the wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres and engine oil is likely to be in line with age rather than high‑mileage fatigue, but the hybrid power‑train and associated battery will have experienced a decade of calendar ageing that should be verified. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front lower suspension arm pins, the anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joints and their dust covers. On a test drive listen for any clunk or knock when the steering wheel is turned at low speed, and feel for any looseness or wandering under braking. Inspect the ball‑joint boots for cracks or ingress of dirt, and check for any uneven tyre wear that could signal mis‑alignment or worn bushings. Verify that the rear bumper is securely mounted and that the headlamp lenses are free of cracks or severe clouding, as previous failures in these areas have been recorded. Confirm that the registration plates are legible and securely fixed, and ensure that all exterior lighting functions correctly. Given the vehicle’s age, also examine the condition of the tyre sidewalls for cracking or hardening, as rubber can perish even on low‑mileage cars. Assess the 12‑volt battery voltage and, if possible, perform a load test, because long periods of standing can reduce capacity. Check the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the exhaust, suspension mounting points and the hybrid battery enclosure, noting the 2023 advisory about general under‑chassis corrosion. Finally, ensure that coolant, brake fluid and hybrid system coolant have been changed at the recommended intervals, and that service stamps in the logbook corroborate regular oil changes and hybrid‑system maintenance.