2018 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · FH18 KLZ

A recurring concern is the off‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover, which was recorded as severely deteriorated in both the November 2024 and December 2025 tests, suggesting that the underlying ball joint may be approaching the end of its serviceable life. The latest MOT on 4 June 2026 passed without any defects, and the overall pattern shows a vehicle that has consistently met the legal standards but carries a specific, repeatable advisory that warrants close attention. With 147,234 miles logged over roughly eight years, the car averages about 18,400 miles per annum, a mileage level that exceeds typical usage for a hybrid of this age. The testing record shows no significant gaps, indicating regular MOT attendance, yet the high annual accumulation points to accelerated wear on consumable items such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, and it may also increase the likelihood of hybrid‑system wear that is not captured by MOT inspections. Prospective buyers should give the front suspension a thorough road‑test evaluation: listen for clunks or knocks when traversing bumps, and check for any looseness or play in the steering wheel that could indicate ball‑joint wear beyond the dust‑cover condition. The rear brake advisory from December 2025 signals that the rear pads are already thin; a visual inspection of pad thickness and a test of pedal feel for any sponginess or reduced braking efficiency are essential before committing. Additionally, the near‑side rear tyre cut noted in November 2024 should be inspected for any progression, ensuring the tyre’s sidewall is free of cracks or bulges that could precipitate a failure. Given the vehicle’s mileage and the specific advisories, a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection should focus on the front suspension linkage, rear brake assembly, and the condition of all tyres, while also confirming that there are no emerging leaks or abnormal noises from the hybrid power‑train. Verifying the integrity of the ball‑joint dust cover and, if necessary, arranging a replacement of the ball joint before further use will help mitigate the risk of a sudden suspension failure.