2013 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · LA13 HPF

A recurring pattern of minor oil‑leak advisories combined with progressive front‑suspension wear shapes the mechanical narrative of this 2016 Prius. The most recent MOT on 9 April 2026 was passed, yet it still recorded an oil‑leak advisory (non‑excessive) and a slight play notice on the off‑side front inner drag‑link ball joint. Earlier tests show the same oil‑leak flag each year from 2020 onward, plus an off‑side front coil‑spring corrosion advisory in 2025 and a rear‑exhaust mounting defect the same year, indicating that while the vehicle remains road‑worthy, a handful of wear points have been persisting without escalation to outright failure. At 209,782 mi the car averages roughly 21,000 mi per annum, a mileage level that exceeds typical private‑use expectations for a ten‑year‑old hybrid. The MOT history shows no large gaps in testing, suggesting the odometer readings are consistent with regular use rather than prolonged storage. Such high annual mileage accelerates wear on consumables – brake pads, tyre tread, suspension bushings and drivetrain joints – and raises the probability of hidden fatigue in components that have already attracted advisories, such as the front drag‑link and coil spring. Prospective buyers should focus on the front‑suspension assembly: the slight play in the inner drag‑link ball joint may manifest as a vague looseness or wandering feel when steering at low speeds and could produce uneven front‑tyre wear. The corroded off‑side front coil spring should be inspected for cracks or loss of spring rate, which would be heard as a thudding thump over bumps. The recurring oil‑leak advisory, although classified as non‑excessive, warrants a visual check for fresh oil spots under the engine bay and a probe of the surrounding seals to ensure the leak has not progressed to a level that could affect oil level or cause fire‑hazard debris. The 2022 MOT failure on the off‑side front outer drive‑shaft CV boot indicates a past breach that, if not fully rectified, can lead to CV joint contamination and eventual joint failure; listen for a clicking or whine on acceleration, especially under load, and feel for any vibration in the wheel. The rear‑exhaust mounting defect noted in 2025 should be examined for rattles or excessive movement of the exhaust assembly, which can stress mounts and generate noise. Finally, the off‑side rear fog lamp’s intermittent operation must be verified, as a non‑functioning lamp can affect compliance with lighting regulations. A thorough test‑drive that includes low‑speed steering checks, acceleration under load, and a quiet idle will help confirm whether these flagged items have been remedied or are likely to require imminent attention.