2021 Lexus NX 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · J77 DBC

A significant mechanical concern regarding the braking system surfaced during the most recent inspection on 25 August 2026, when the vehicle failed due to a dangerous defect involving rear brake pads being worn below the 1.5 mm threshold. This failure was accompanied by an advisory noting that both rear brake discs were worn, pitted, or scored. While the vehicle subsequently passed the test on the same date with no further defects recorded, the transition from a dangerous failure to a clean pass indicates that the braking components required immediate replacement to meet safety standards. The recorded mileage of 39,967 miles over a five-year period represents an average annual accumulation of approximately 7,993 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical UK driving profiles for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this level of mileage suggests that while the drivetrain and major engine components have not been subjected to high-intensity long-distance use, the vehicle has been driven enough to necessitate the wear of consumable items, such as the brake pads and discs identified in the 2026 MOT history. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the rear braking assembly during a test drive to ensure the recent repairs were comprehensive. Listen for any rhythmic squealing or grinding noises from the rear of the vehicle when applying the brakes, and feel for any pulsation or judder through the brake pedal, which can indicate uneven disc surfaces or sticking calipers. It is also advisable to verify if the rear discs were replaced alongside the pads, as the advisory regarding pitting and scoring suggests the discs may have been nearing the end of their service life at the time of the failure. Beyond the braking system, the 2026 failure also highlighted an issue with the front windscreen wiper failing to clear the glass effectively. Although this was rectified for the pass, a physical inspection of the wiper blade condition and the wiper motor operation should be conducted to ensure there is no intermittent stuttering or uneven wiping across the windscreen. Given the relatively consistent annual mileage, the mechanical focus should remain on the condition of these wear-related components rather than heavy structural or suspension fatigue.