2006 Lexus RX400 H SE CVT 3.3L Hybrid electric · FP56 YZX

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a PASS on 9 December 2025 at 160,112 miles, with no critical defects identified. However, the maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the rear braking system and suspension components. The most recent test confirms that while the rear brake discs remain within acceptable wear limits and the parking brake functions adequately, prior failures—especially the 3 December 2024 failure due to insufficient parking brake efficiency—indicate unresolved or poorly addressed concerns. The persistence of worn brake discs and bushings across multiple tests suggests ongoing wear without timely intervention, raising questions about the consistency of maintenance. The mileage progression reflects steady usage over time: from 142,197 miles in January 2023 to 160,112 miles in December 2025, an increase of approximately 18,000 miles over 2.5 years, or about 7,200 miles annually. This is consistent with average annual use for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in testing—annual MOTs were completed each year, indicating regular compliance with legal requirements. The only anomaly is the 2024 test cycle, which included two separate assessments within six days (3 December and 9 December), suggesting a retest after a failure. This implies either a repair was attempted and failed initial verification, or the issue was not fully resolved before the second attempt. A buyer should conduct a thorough in-person inspection of the rear suspension system, focusing on the anti-roll bar bushes and sub-frame mounting points, as both have shown progressive wear and corrosion. The nearside rear ball joint play noted in early 2023 may have worsened, and the corroded sub-frame remains a structural concern despite not being seriously weakened. The rear brake system requires close scrutiny—particularly the calipers for binding, the disc thicknesses, and the parking brake cable tension. Given the repeated mention of pitted or scored discs, it is likely that the pads and rotors have been replaced more than once, and the underlying cause of accelerated wear—such as misalignment or poor-quality parts—should be investigated. Additionally, the exhaust system and underbody should be checked for signs of rust or damage, especially around the rear sub-frame area.