2002 Lexus IS300 3.0L Petrol · LM02 RBF

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-09 resulted in a passing outcome, though it was accompanied by several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable wear and minor structural concerns. The trend over the past four years shows a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement or deterioration, with advisories on tyre wear, brake disc condition, and suspension component integrity persisting across multiple tests. Notably, the 2019-08-09 failure highlighted a major defect in the offside front suspension ball joint, which was not repeated in subsequent tests, suggesting either corrective action was taken or the wear progression was contained. However, the consistent presence of front and rear tyre wear close to legal limits, along with repeated corrosion advisories on suspension mounts and underside corrosion, suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it requires regular attention to prevent further degradation. The recorded mileage of 96,440 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 24 years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of around 4,018 miles per year, which is unusually low for such an older model. This could imply either infrequent operation, long periods of inactivity, or a vehicle maintained in a static position for extended periods. Such usage patterns can exacerbate specific wear issues, particularly in components prone to corrosion and dry friction, such as suspension bushes, brake components, and tyre rubber. The low mileage also means that consumables like brake pads, filters, and fluids may have degraded over time due to calendar-based aging rather than mechanical wear, necessitating careful inspection of these systems regardless of usage. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front and rear tyres, given the repeated advisories of wear close to legal limits and sidewall cracking or perishing. Check for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and visually inspect the tyres for cracks or dry rot along the sidewall, as this can compromise structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. The brake system warrants thorough examination, particularly the discs and pads, as the advisories suggest moderate wear but potential pitting or scoring that could worsen with continued use. Listen for any abnormal braking noises, such as grinding or squealing, and feel for binding or excessive play in the calipers or brake hoses. The suspension components, especially the front lower arms and ball joints, should be checked for excessive play or clunking noises when driving over bumps, as the advisories indicate wear but not yet excessive movement. Inspect the underside for signs of corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounts, and consider a thorough cleaning to assess the extent of rust development. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12V battery, as low usage can lead to sulfation or poor performance, and check the fluid levels in the cooling system, transmission, and brake fluids, ensuring they are fresh and free of contaminants. Given the vehicle’s age and the history of low mileage, it is advisable to schedule a comprehensive mechanical inspection by a qualified technician before purchase. This should include a full fluid check—particularly brake, coolant, and transmission fluids, which may have degraded over time—along with a test of the exhaust emissions system, as the noise from the fan belt area in 2020 suggests potential issues with the alternator or serpentine belt tension. Verify the service history for any recorded maintenance, such as suspension replacements or brake system servicing, and ensure that the vehicle has been kept in a dry, sheltered environment to mitigate corrosion risks. If the vehicle is to be stored long-term, consider installing a desiccant or using a protective cover to prevent further rust and tyre perishing. Finally, conduct a test drive to assess handling, steering responsiveness, and overall roadworthiness, paying particular attention to suspension comfort, brake pedal feel, and any unusual noises or vibrations.