2003 Lexus RX300 3.0L Petrol · LL03 VVG

The most recent MOT inspection on 30 July 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend is concerning as it shows signs of progressive structural degradation. While the vehicle passed, the history reveals a significant failure just one day prior due to excessive corrosion on the offside rear suspension component mounting area, specifically affecting the inner sill. This indicates a serious issue with the vehicle's structural integrity. Although the recent pass suggests the specific corrosion point may have been addressed or deemed acceptable for the current period, the recurring nature of oil leaks and the previous major structural failure suggest that the vehicle is entering a phase of increasing maintenance requirements and potential long-term viability issues. With a recorded mileage of 237,362 over approximately 23 years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 10,320 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a vehicle of this age and suggests it has been used consistently rather than left to sit for long periods. While consistent usage can prevent certain types of age-related degradation like rubber perishing or brake binding, the high cumulative mileage means that major mechanical components such as the drivetrain, suspension bushings, and engine seals are likely near the end of their service life. The high mileage reinforces the necessity of a thorough mechanical inspection, as wear and tear on moving parts will be significant. Prospective buyers must exercise extreme caution regarding the reported oil leaks, which have been noted as advisories for several consecutive years. This includes leaks from the engine and the differential. You should inspect the underside of the vehicle for active dripping and check the engine bay for heavy oil staining or the smell of burning oil after a drive. On your test drive, listen for any unusual whining or grinding noises from the rear, which could indicate the differential leak is affecting internal component health. Furthermore, the history of structural corrosion on the inner sill is a major red flag. You must inspect the sills, wheel arches, and suspension mounting points very closely for any signs of bubbling paint, surface rust, or advanced rot, as structural repairs can be prohibitively expensive. Regarding consumables and secondary systems, the MOT history shows a pattern of uneven tyre wear and thinning brake pads. During your inspection, check that all four tyres have even tread depth across the width of the tyre; uneven wear on the edges often indicates worn suspension bushes or incorrect wheel alignment. Check the brake discs for deep scoring or heavy corrosion, and during the test drive, feel for any pedal pulsation or shuddering, which could indicate warped discs or sticking calipers. Given the vehicle's age, you should also verify the service history for recent fluid changes, specifically the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, inspect the seat belt webbing for any further fraying to ensure passenger safety.