2009 Lexus IS220 2.2L Diesel · FN09 UEC

A broadly clean and stable MOT record defines this 2009 Lexus IS220, with three consecutive passes between 2023 and 2026 and only a single minor defect flagged during the entire recorded testing period. The most recent test on 17 April 2026 saw the vehicle pass with no advisories recorded, although a prior failure on the same date for an offside front position lamp not working is noted as a present and later rectified item, likely a straightforward bulb or socket concern. The only persistent theme across the record is tyre wear, with advisories issued on three tyres at the 2023 test for being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge, suggesting a tendency towards uneven or accelerated front and offside rear wear. Overall, the trajectory is one of improving roadworthiness, with the 2025 and 2026 tests recording a completely clean sheet. The recorded mileage of 144,853 miles across approximately seventeen years equates to an annual average of around 8,500 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and is neither notably low nor excessively high. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the steady progression of annual mileage implies consistent rather than intermittent use. For a diesel-powered executive saloon of this vintage, this level of use generally means that major service items such as timing belts, injectors, and turbocharger components have likely been exercised regularly rather than suffering the risks associated with extended standing. Mechanically, it suggests a drivetrain that has been worked but not overburdened, with wear patterns that should broadly correlate with the recorded odometer reading rather than raising concerns of hidden high-mileage use. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus on inspection should be the areas that have historically attracted attention on this vehicle, particularly the suspension and steering geometry given the edge-wear pattern noted on the tyres. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, as this would point towards worn anti-roll bar drop links, control arm bushes, or top mount deterioration common on this generation of Lexus. Pay close attention to steering behaviour, specifically any vague response, pulling to one side under braking, or uneven self-centring, all of which could indicate worn suspension arms or tracking issues exacerbated by the edge wear previously recorded. Visually inspect the wheels and tyres for any signs of camber wear, feathering on the inner or outer edges, or uneven shoulder wear that would suggest alignment or suspension component issues have not been fully resolved. Given the single minor advisory cluster around tyres, it is prudent to inspect the current set for brand, age, and wear pattern, and to budget for a full four-wheel alignment check along with a potential geometry correction. The offside front position lamp failure is a low-cost item but worth verifying that the bulb housing and wiring are sound, as corroded connectors can recur. A thorough underbody inspection is advisable for a vehicle of this age and mileage, paying particular attention to the front subframe mounting points, brake pipes along the chassis, and the condition of the exhaust system given the higher annual mileage. Finally, on test drive, confirm smooth operation of the automatic transmission under moderate acceleration, check for any excessive vibration through the steering wheel at speed which could indicate wheel balance or driveshaft issues, and ensure the diesel engine pulls cleanly without excessive smoke or rattles from the timing chain area, as these are known wear points on higher-mileage Lexus IS220 models.