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

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a PASS on 5 January 2026 at 83,798 miles, with the only defects being front brake pads wearing thin and an insecure front registration plate—both minor and easily rectified. The recent MOT history shows a clear improvement in reliability compared to the prior year, where two failures occurred within a week of each other in December 2023 and January 2026, both citing similar brake pad wear and registration plate issues. This suggests that while the vehicle has experienced inconsistent maintenance or inspection standards in the past, the most recent test confirms the brakes are now within acceptable limits and no further critical faults were found. The mileage progression indicates consistent use over time: from 45,317 miles in December 2023 to 65,454 miles (a gain of 20,137 miles) by December 2024, then to 83,798 miles by January 2026 (an increase of 18,344 miles). This equates to roughly 6,446 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the record, and the steady accumulation of mileage reflects regular driving rather than long-term storage. The absence of major defects in the 2024 and 2023 tests, aside from the washer fluid issue, supports a pattern of generally stable mechanical condition until the recent brake-related concerns emerged. A buyer should conduct a thorough visual and functional inspection of the front braking system, particularly the pads and calipers, given the repeated warnings about wear. The binding or uneven wear indicated by the 2026 failure may suggest underlying issues such as seized caliper pistons or worn guide pins, which could lead to premature pad wear and reduced stopping efficiency. Additionally, the rear fog lamp failure in January 2026 warrants checking the bulb, wiring, and socket integrity, especially if the light was not properly secured during the test. While no structural corrosion or frame damage was reported, the vehicle’s age and mileage mean that suspension bushes, coil springs, and exhaust mounting points should be examined for signs of fatigue or wear, particularly around the front subframe and rear axle mounts.