2016 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric · LJ16 FTZ

The 2016 Toyota Prius most recently passed its MOT on 21 July 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a clear pattern of clean test results across the past four consecutive annual examinations. The only advisory ever noted in the available DVSA history was issued on 30 June 2022 and related solely to a child seat being fitted to the nearside rear, which prevented full inspection of the adult belt; this is not a mechanical or structural concern and is administrative in nature, requiring no remedial work. With four successive passes and no recorded advisories on braking, suspension, tyres, lights, exhaust emissions, or structural corrosion, the overall maintenance trend is demonstrably stable and consistent with a vehicle that has been conscientiously maintained throughout its life. For a ten-year-old hybrid, this level of MOT cleanliness is highly reassuring and indicates that the principal safety-related systems remain in sound working order. The recorded mileage of 70,474 miles over approximately ten years equates to an annual average of around 7,047 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and considerably below the national average. This suggests the Prius has likely been used predominantly for shorter urban or suburban journeys, which is a usage pattern well suited to its hybrid drivetrain, allowing regular operation of the electric motor and regenerative braking system. However, lower annual mileage can also mean extended periods of standing, which carries its own implications, particularly regarding brake disc corrosion from lack of use, potential age-related degradation of rubber components, and reduced regular cycling of the 12V auxiliary battery. Conversely, the mileage appears to have been accumulated steadily, with no obvious gaps or unusually rapid accumulation that might indicate a discrepancy in the odometer reading or inconsistent vehicle use. Given the clean MOT record but the age and modest annual mileage of this Prius, a prospective buyer should focus on areas that MOT testing does not fully assess and on issues that arise from calendar-aged components rather than wear alone. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with time regardless of tread depth, and any tyres over six years old should be replaced irrespective of remaining tread. The brake discs are particularly worthy of inspection, as a vehicle used lightly and possibly stored for periods may exhibit surface corrosion or, conversely, may have seized or binding calipers that cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking; on a test drive, listen for scraping or grinding and feel for shudder through the pedal. The 12V auxiliary battery, which powers the hybrid system boot-up sequence and ancillary electronics, is commonly overlooked and typically requires replacement every five to six years, so its age and state of charge should be verified. The hybrid system itself, including the high-voltage traction battery, inverter coolant, and engine coolant, should be confirmed as having been serviced in line with Toyota's recommended intervals, and the absence of any dashboard warning lights, particularly the master warning, hybrid system warning, or check engine light, should be confirmed on ignition. Fluid conditions warrant attention irrespective of mileage, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two to three years, while engine oil, transmission fluid for the hybrid transaxle, and coolant all degrade with time. During a test drive, the transition between petrol and electric propulsion should be smooth, the regenerative braking should feel consistent, and the vehicle should start promptly on the 12V battery without hesitation. A full Toyota service history, including evidence of hybrid battery health checks, would significantly strengthen buyer confidence and complement the otherwise excellent MOT record.