2020 Lexus IS 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · LL70 XKB

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this 2020 Lexus IS, conducted on 16 September 2025, resulted in a pass, although the same date also shows a prior fail that was clearly rectified during the same inspection visit. The failures were recorded as PRS defects for both near and offside headlamp aim being too high, which are straightforward adjustment issues rather than indications of deeper mechanical concern. Two advisories were also raised at this test, both concerning rear tyres worn close to the legal limit and showing shoulder wear on both nearside and offside, suggesting either a tracking or camber concern at the rear axle or simply that the tyres were nearing the end of their service life. The previous test in September 2024 was a clean pass with no advisories, and the 2023 test carried only a minor advisory for a slightly damaged nearside front tyre. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable with no structural, braking, or suspension advisories escalating over the three-year MOT record, indicating a vehicle that has been generally well maintained. With 25,567 miles recorded over approximately six years, this Lexus IS has covered around 4,260 miles annually, which is well below average usage and points to either significant periods of standing, predominantly short local trips, or a combination of both. Such low mileage is generally favourable for major drivetrain components, including the engine, transmission, and turbocharging system if fitted, as wear from sustained high-mileage driving is minimised. However, low annual mileage introduces its own set of age-related concerns, particularly around components that degrade with time rather than use, such as rubber seals, brake hydraulic fluid, coolant, and the 12-volt battery. Calendar-based deterioration can outstrip actual mechanical wear on a lightly used vehicle, so a prospective buyer should weigh the benefits of low mileage against the likelihood of time-served component fatigue. Given the recurring advisory relating to rear tyre shoulder wear on both sides, a careful inspection of the rear suspension geometry is warranted. Shoulder wear on both edges of a tyre typically indicates either an under-inflation issue, a worn rear beam bush, a sagging coil spring, or a tracking misalignment at the rear, particularly on a vehicle with an independent or multi-link rear suspension arrangement as fitted to the IS platform. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over bumps, observe whether the vehicle sits level, and check for uneven ride height which could point to weakened springs. It is also prudent to inspect all four tyres for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing, as tyres older than five years can harden and lose grip even with adequate tread depth, and to verify the spare or repair kit condition if present. Beyond the specific tyre advisory, the low-mileage profile of this Lexus demands attention to items prone to deterioration through inactivity. The 12-volt battery is a key concern, as frequent short journeys or long standing periods prevent full charging and can lead to sulphation and premature failure, so a battery health test or evidence of recent replacement is worth obtaining. Brake discs and calipers can corrode and seize when a vehicle is infrequently used, so on a test drive listen for any scraping, binding, or pulling to one side under light braking, and check for uneven disc surface corrosion. Fluid condition should be verified, including brake fluid which typically requires replacement every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature, and coolant which should be inspected for age and concentration. Finally, confirming a full service history with evidence of time-based items such as cabin and engine filter replacements, along with any Lexus main dealer or specialist service stamps, will provide valuable reassurance that this low-mileage example has been correctly maintained against the clock rather than simply the odometer.