2009 Toyota Unknown 3.5L Petrol · LN58 KRO

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-02-28, but the maintenance trend is worsening, particularly concerning brake pad wear. The same front and rear brake pad thinness issues reappeared in the latest test, indicating either insufficient replacement after prior warnings or continued neglect of brake system upkeep. While the 2024 and 2023 March tests were clean, the 2023 failure and subsequent 2025 and 2026 passes show a pattern of recurring brake-related advisories rather than resolution, suggesting the previous owner may have deferred repairs or replaced pads inconsistently. Mileage progression is steady and low for the vehicle’s age, with 96,026 miles recorded over 17 years — roughly 5,650 miles annually. This suggests the car has been lightly used or kept in storage for periods, which can lead to dry rot, corrosion, or degraded seals in suspension, brake lines, and exhaust components. The gap between the 2023 March failure and the 2024 February pass is unusually short — just 11 months — yet the mileage increased by nearly 9,000 miles, which may indicate the car was driven more heavily during that window. No major gaps or sudden spikes appear in the record, so the mileage trend is consistent, though the low annual average implies potential for hidden wear in non-consumable parts. Buyers should inspect the entire brake system in person, especially the rear calipers and pads, as repeated thinness warnings suggest binding or uneven wear. Check for corrosion on suspension bushes and coil springs, which can degrade over time even with low mileage. Examine the exhaust system for rust, particularly around joints and under the chassis, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from moisture buildup and lack of heat cycling. Also verify the structural integrity of the rear wheel arches and sills, as rust can develop silently in older cars even with minimal use. The rear fog lamp failure in 2023 is a minor advisory, but it’s worth confirming whether it was repaired — a recurring electrical fault could indicate wiring issues.