2015 Lexus RX 3.5L Hybrid electric · FV64 LLJ

A clear pattern of developing wear is evident across the MOT record of this 2015 Lexus RX, with each of the last four annual tests recording advisories even though the vehicle has not failed a test. The most recent pass on 11 June 2026 flagged a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit and worn on its edge, continuing a trajectory of component degradation that began appearing from 2023 onwards. Earlier advisories include pitted nearside and offside front lower suspension arm rear bushes in 2025, and an offside front inner brake disc showing pitting and scoring in 2024. The progressive nature of these items, particularly the suspension bushes which have now been flagged for two consecutive cycles, points to a chassis that is beginning to show the kind of mid-life wear typical of a premium SUV, and a prospective buyer should treat the advisory list as an indicator of forthcoming maintenance rather than a clean bill of health. With 51,009 miles accumulated over eleven years, this RX averages around 4,637 miles annually, which is considerably below the typical mileage for a vehicle of its age and class. This restrained rate of accumulation suggests the vehicle has seen either predominantly light urban use or significant periods of standing between journeys, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Lighter mileage generally preserves the engine internals, transmission, and exhaust system, but it tends to accelerate the deterioration of rubber and elastomeric components such as suspension bushes, drive shaft boots, and engine mountings, all of which suffer from prolonged static loading and lack of regular flexing. The fact that the suspension bushes have already been flagged as worn supports this assessment, indicating that low mileage has not entirely insulated the chassis from age-related degradation. For a prospective buyer, the suspension advisories recorded on both front lower arms in 2025 deserve particular attention, as these bushes control the geometry and noise characteristics of the front axle. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for any vagueness or looseness through the steering wheel on uneven surfaces. The vehicle should also be checked for uneven tyre wear across the front axle, as worn trailing arm bushes commonly cause camber disturbance that manifests as shoulder wear on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres. Given that the nearside rear tyre was already noted as edge-worn at the last test, a close inspection of all four tyres for matching wear patterns would be worthwhile, as asymmetric wear can point to alignment or suspension issues beyond a simple tyre replacement. The brake disc advisory from the 2024 test is also worth following up on, as pitted and scored front discs will typically generate pedal pulsation or vibration under firm braking. During a road test, the vehicle should be brought up to speed and the brakes applied firmly from around 30 mph to check for any judder through the steering wheel or brake pedal, which would indicate that the disc run-out has progressed beyond acceptable limits since the advisory was issued. The undertray and engine cover advisories recorded in 2023 mean that a full visual inspection of the underside and engine bay will require these panels to be removed, so any pre-purchase inspection should be carried out on a ramp. Given the combination of suspension wear, brake disc deterioration, and the edge-worn rear tyre noted at the most recent test, budgeting for fresh front brake discs, a set of suspension bushes, and four new tyres would represent prudent planning for the immediate ownership period.