2013 Toyota Prius 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · LA13 OTM

Recurring issues with lighting components and tyre wear patterns define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT failure and subsequent pass on 18 August 2026. The history shows a pattern of failures related to indicator colour discrepancies and headlamp reflector defects, alongside more recent mechanical failures involving the offside front upper anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover. While the vehicle passed its latest inspection, the presence of advisories for discoloured rear indicators and tyres worn close to the legal limit suggests a trend of addressing component degradation only when it reaches the threshold of a test failure. The recorded mileage of 72,244 miles for a 2013 model indicates an average annual usage of approximately 5,557 miles, which is significantly lower than the UK national average for a vehicle of this age. This low-mileage profile can mean that components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and steering linkages have experienced fewer load cycles, yet it can also imply longer periods of inactivity. The MOT records show consistent annual testing without significant gaps, providing a continuous timeline of the vehicle's roadworthiness despite the low frequency of use. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the suspension and steering geometry during a test drive, particularly following the 2024 failure for a fractured nearside front coil spring and the 2026 failure regarding the anti-roll bar linkage. Listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate further wear in the suspension bushes or ball joints. Additionally, the repeated advisories for tyres being worn heavily on the inner edges suggest a potential issue with wheel alignment or camber settings. It is advisable to check for any pulling to one side during straight-line driving or steering wheel vibration, which would correlate with the recorded tyre wear patterns. The history of windscreen wiper failure and lighting reflector defects indicates that peripheral consumables and visibility components have required attention. Beyond the lighting, the buyer should verify that the windscreen is free of chips or cracks that might affect the effectiveness of the wipers, as previously noted in the 2024 test. Given the low annual mileage, it is also prudent to inspect the vehicle for any signs of uneven tyre wear that might stem from the vehicle being driven infrequently or having stationary periods, which can sometimes lead to flat spots or uneven pressure distribution.