2015 Lexus RX 3.5L Hybrid electric · LP15 AAU

The 2015 Lexus RX was issued a Dangerous failure at its most recent MOT presentation on 15 December 2025, primarily due to front inner brake pads being measured at less than 1.5 mm thick, accompanied by a Major defect for significantly and obviously worn front brake discs and another Major for an inoperative tyre pressure monitoring system, with brake performance also unable to be tested under those conditions. A subsequent test on the same date returned a clean Pass with no defects recorded, indicating that the rectification work was carried out to a satisfactory standard on the day. The broader MOT history, however, reveals a notable maintenance concern: the 2022 test recorded three advisories for tyres worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edges, including both nearside and offside front positions and the offside rear, which suggests a pattern of uneven tyre wear rather than simple natural attrition. The progression from a 2022 advisory to a 2025 Dangerous brake defect indicates a worsening mechanical trend in the areas of braking components and likely wheel alignment or suspension geometry, and prospective buyers should treat this as a meaningful indicator of deferred maintenance. With 82,755 miles recorded over approximately 11 years, the vehicle has averaged around 7,523 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and consistent with regular but not particularly demanding use. There are no obvious gaps in the testing sequence that would suggest prolonged standing periods, and the mileage accumulation appears steady across the recorded MOT entries. This usage profile points to conventional wear on consumable components such as brake friction materials, tyres, and engine ancillaries rather than the specific concerns associated with very low-mileage vehicles, where age-related degradation of rubber, fluids, and electronics tends to dominate. Nevertheless, the work just carried out to pass the 2025 MOT will have addressed only those items strictly required for test compliance, so components approaching the end of their service life but not yet at failure threshold may still require attention in the near term. Given the recorded brake and tyre wear issues, a prospective buyer should carry out a deliberate physical inspection and a structured test drive with attention to the braking system. With new pads and discs only just fitted at the 2025 test, it is essential to verify the quality of that work by checking for even pad wear, ensuring the caliper slide pins are free and the calipers are not binding, and confirming that the new discs run true without brake shudder under firm pedal pressure. On the road, listen for any metallic scraping, squeal, or pulsation through the brake pedal, particularly during the first firm application from higher speed, as these can indicate improperly bedded pads, warped discs, or a sticking caliper. The front tyres should also be inspected for any remaining uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, as the 2022 advisories strongly suggest a tracking or suspension geometry issue, and a four-wheel laser alignment check should be requested irrespective of whether new tyres are being fitted. Beyond the braking concerns, the inoperative tyre pressure monitoring system flagged at the 2025 test should be diagnosed, as it may indicate a faulty valve stem sensor, corrupted control module data, or simply wheel sensor replacement following tyre changes, and this is a relatively inexpensive rectification but one worth confirming has been completed. Although the recorded MOT history shows no advisories for fluid leaks, corrosion, or suspension components, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants a thorough inspection of items that deteriorate with calendar age rather than mileage alone, including coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid condition, the 12V auxiliary battery health, and the condition of all suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and coil springs for cracking. The exhaust system should be examined for corrosion at joints and mounting points, while the underbody and wheel arches should be checked for surface corrosion typical of an eleven-year-old vehicle. Finally, verifying a complete service history with documented stamp records will help confirm whether the more recent brake and tyre defects reflect an isolated lapse or a wider neglect of routine maintenance intervals.