2014 Lexus IS 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · LL64 HCV

The most recent MOT test for the 2014 Lexus IS was conducted on 2025-09-04 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects or failures were recorded. This follows a consistent pattern of passing MOTs from 2022 to 2025, with only isolated advisories and one failed test in 2021 related to tyre conditions. The absence of repeated failures or major issues over the past three years suggests a stable maintenance record, though the vehicle’s tyre history—particularly the severe cut in the offside front tyre in 2021 and the near-legal wear advisories in 2021 and 2022—demonstrates that tyre management has been inconsistent. The vehicle’s age and the presence of these past defects warrant careful attention to ensure the tyres have been replaced appropriately since their last MOT, as further wear or damage could reappear. The recorded mileage of 68,441 miles for a 12-year-old vehicle represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,703 miles per year. This is notably lower than the typical annual mileage for vehicles of this age, which often exceeds 10,000 miles annually. Such low mileage can result from lighter use, long periods of inactivity, or infrequent operation, which may contribute to accelerated wear in certain components. For example, standing tyres can lead to uneven wear patterns, corrosion in brake systems from moisture exposure, and potential issues with suspension components that degrade more slowly but can stiffen over time. Additionally, fluids like brake fluid and differential oil degrade with age, even without use, so their condition should be scrutinised, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Given the vehicle’s age and the past MOT findings, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the front and rear sets for signs of further damage or uneven wear beyond the advisories noted. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front tyres, such as a grinding or scraping sound, which could indicate residual tyre damage or embedded debris. The offside front tyre in particular should be examined closely, as the cut in 2021 suggests a history of severe road hazards or improper tyre maintenance. Inspect the tread depth again, ensuring no areas have worn to below 3mm, and check for sidewall damage or cracks, which can compromise tyre integrity. If the tyres have been replaced since the last MOT, verify the replacement date and ensure they meet current legal requirements. Beyond tyres, the buyer should address the potential standing corrosion and fluid degradation. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs, particularly near the callipers, as standing fluid can cause rusting and binding. Listen for a binding or grinding noise when applying the brakes, which may indicate seized components. Inspect the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion on the terminals and test its charge capacity, as low-mileage vehicles can suffer from battery drain from parasitic loads or prolonged inactivity. Additionally, since the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, examine the differential and transmission fluids for darkening or sludge, which are signs of degradation. If possible, confirm the last service history, particularly for fluid top-ups and suspension component checks, as the advisories from 2021 and 2022 suggest past neglect in these areas. Finally, verify the vehicle’s structural integrity by inspecting the body for dents, rust, or misalignment, as low-mileage vehicles can develop issues from prolonged exposure to moisture or road debris.