2020 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · LL69 VGC

The most recent MOT test on the 2020 Toyota Prius was conducted on 2026-05-05 and resulted in a passing outcome, with the only recorded defect being a minor issue with the near-side rear registration plate lamp being inoperative in cases of multiple lamps or light sources. Despite this minor failure, the overall maintenance trend over the past year appears relatively stable, with no major defects or repeated failures that would suggest a deteriorating mechanical condition. The vehicle has not failed an MOT due to structural or safety-related issues, though the consistent presence of brake pad wear advisories—particularly the front pads showing thinning to 4.5mm on the near-side and 5mm on the off-side—demands closer attention. The 2025-10-24 test marked the first failure of the vehicle, where the front brake pads were again noted as thin, alongside a headlamp aim adjustment requirement, indicating that while the car has managed to pass previous tests, the brake system is approaching a critical threshold that could compromise stopping performance if not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 107,848 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 17,975 miles per year, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation suggests that the car has been subjected to significant driving conditions, potentially including frequent short trips, heavy loads, or exposure to harsh environmental factors. The absence of long periods of inactivity means that consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluids may have experienced accelerated wear. Additionally, the failure in 2024-04-12 due to mismatched tyre sizes on the same axle is particularly concerning, as this irregularity can lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced handling stability, and increased road noise. The rapid accumulation of mileage without corresponding service intervals could also imply that the vehicle’s maintenance schedule has not kept pace with its usage, leaving critical systems like the drivetrain, exhaust, and electrical systems at risk of premature failure. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concern is the front brake system, where the advisories from multiple MOT tests indicate that the pads are dangerously thin, with measurements nearing or exceeding the legal minimum. On a test drive, listen for a grinding or scraping noise when applying the brakes, especially at low speeds or when braking from a stop, which would signal metal-to-metal contact between the brake pads and rotors if the pads have been worn down to the backing plate. Inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive heat discoloration, which could indicate overheating or uneven wear. The off-side rear tyre crack advisory from 2025-02-21 suggests a potential structural weakness in that tyre, so verify that it has not developed a blowout risk by checking for cracks that penetrate the tread or sidewall. Additionally, the headlamp aim adjustment failure in 2025-10-24 indicates that the headlamps may be misaligned, which could affect visibility and safety; a professional alignment should be performed to restore proper beam pattern. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s high mileage demands a thorough inspection of the suspension and drivetrain components, as these systems are likely to have experienced wear from frequent use. Check for excessive play in the suspension bushes or struts, which could manifest as clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, and inspect the coil springs for signs of fatigue or sagging. The drivetrain, including the CV joints and universal joints, should be examined for leaks or excessive whining noises, particularly when turning corners or accelerating. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider a full fluid top-up, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and can become contaminated, leading to premature component failure. For the tyres, despite the recent tyre size mismatch failure, ensure that all tyres are within legal limits and that the tread depth is sufficient to meet minimum requirements. Finally, verify the battery’s health, as prolonged driving without charging can lead to a weak or dead battery, which may not be immediately apparent but could cause electrical system failures or poor acceleration. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, check for corrosion on the battery terminals, exhaust system, and undercarriage, as standing can accelerate rust formation.