2016 Lexus RX 3.5L Hybrid electric · LP66 AAV

The most recent DVSA examination on 13 November 2025 returned a Pass, with two advisory items noted rather than failure-causing defects. The preceding four tests, all conducted annually from 2021 through 2024, recorded clean passes with no advisories whatsoever. This represents a broadly stable maintenance trend, and the appearance of advisories only on the latest test is consistent with a ten-year-old vehicle beginning to show age-related wear on consumable items, particularly tyres. The fact that the advisories did not escalate to failures indicates the vehicle remains roadworthy, though a prospective buyer should not interpret the absence of failures as evidence that nothing requires attention. With 79,488 recorded miles over approximately ten years, the annual usage rate sits at around 7,949 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a privately used luxury SUV of this age. There is no evidence of large mileage gaps or unusual spikes in usage between the recorded MOT tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for extended periods or subjected to unusually high motorway mileage. Regular use of this nature is generally beneficial for mechanical health, as it keeps fluids circulating, prevents brake disc corrosion from seizing the pads, and avoids the issues associated with long-term storage. The mileage itself is moderate and not a particular cause for concern for a Lexus of this calibre, as the brand is widely regarded for durability. That said, two tyre-related advisories on the most recent test warrant close attention. The nearside front outer tyre was noted as having a cut not deep enough to reach the ply or cords, and the offside rear tyre was flagged for slight damage, cracking or perishing, and worn inner side. Tyre perishing and sidewall cracking are common on vehicles over eight to ten years old regardless of tread depth, and rubber compounds degrade through oxidation even when the car is driven regularly. A buyer should physically inspect all four tyres and the spare for hairline cracks in the sidewall and check the DOT date codes to confirm none are excessively aged. Any uneven inner-edge wear on the offside rear, as noted, can also point to rear wheel alignment issues, worn suspension bushes, or slight coil spring sag, so it would be prudent to inspect the rear suspension geometry and condition of the bushes and springs. Given the vehicle's age, even with a relatively low and consistent annual mileage, several time-based service items should be verified regardless of the clean MOT history. Brake discs and calipers should be checked for corrosion or binding, particularly as the RX is a heavy vehicle whose brakes work hard. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries beyond five years old frequently fail without warning. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid should all be confirmed as recently renewed on a calendar basis, as these degrade chemically over time rather than through use alone. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clunks over bumps, particularly at the rear where uneven tyre wear was noted, and check for pulling under braking which could indicate a binding caliper. Given the Lexus RX's strong reputation for longevity, addressing these ageing-related items proactively should ensure the vehicle remains dependable for many years to come.