2007 Lexus IS 250 SE Auto 2.5L Petrol · GP07 GWJ

The Lexus IS 250’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-06 confirms it passed without defects, though the preceding failure on 2026-01-29—just 17 miles before passing—highlights a critical near-term issue with the nearside front anti-roll bar, which was deemed likely to fail. This single failure in early 2026 contrasts with a clean pass in February 2025, suggesting the bar was either replaced or repaired between those dates. The 2025 failure for rear brake pads (1.5mm thickness) indicates a pattern of neglect in brake maintenance, as pads at this wear stage should have been serviced long before. While the 2024 test showed only a minor tyre issue and undertrays (a common aftermarket modification), the absence of further defects suggests the vehicle was otherwise mechanically sound at that point. The trend is unstable: the anti-roll bar failure points to a recent or pending suspension issue, while the brake history reveals inconsistent upkeep. The recorded mileage of 152,984 miles over 19 years aligns with typical usage for this model, averaging around 8,050 miles annually. There are no significant gaps or spikes in mileage between tests, though the 2025 failure occurred at exactly the same mileage (148,665) for both the pass and fail, which is unusual and may indicate the tester initially overlooked the brake condition before re-inspecting. The 2024 to 2025 interval saw 5,000 miles logged in just over a year, consistent with steady driving rather than aggressive use. The lack of extended periods with no mileage suggests the vehicle was actively driven rather than stored, which could accelerate wear on suspension and brake components. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front anti-roll bar linkage, given its recent failure. The bar’s mounting bushings or attachment points may show signs of fatigue or corrosion, and the tester’s note implies structural compromise. Rear brakes require immediate attention—pads at 1.5mm thickness are dangerously close to the legal limit, and the tester likely flagged binding calipers or uneven wear on the discs, which could indicate warping or glazing. The front nearside tyre from 2024 was worn to the legal limit or beyond, so the opposite front tyre and all rear tyres should be checked for uneven wear or low tread depth. Finally, the undertrays—while not inherently dangerous—may conceal corrosion or damage to the subframe or rear suspension mounts, areas often overlooked but critical for structural integrity.