2009 Lexus RX400H 3.3L Hybrid electric · LR09 BMY

A recurring theme of suspension and underbody corrosion advisories defines the mechanical outlook of this 2009 Lexus RX400h, with the most recent test on 2 December 2025 confirming a pass but flagging multiple items that warrant close scrutiny. The front inner suspension arm pin or bush wear was first noted in 2021 on both sides, and it has reappeared on this latest inspection, suggesting that the bushes have not been replaced and the linkage is gradually loosening. More concerning is the dangerous advisory raised against the nearside rear brake disc, which was deemed worn, pitted, scored, and suffering severe surface corrosion; this is a category reserved for items that would normally result in a test failure, indicating the component is close to or at its service limit. Combined with the advisories for nearside rear suspension mounting corrosion and a cracked, misshapen nearside rear tyre, the rear axle is showing its age more acutely than the front. The 2024 test also recorded general underbody surface rust across the sills and rear suspension components, confirming that corrosion is an ongoing rather than isolated concern on this chassis. At 186,416 miles over roughly seventeen years, this RX400h has covered approximately 10,966 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, meaning the car has been in continuous use and has not been laid up for extended periods, so major components have been subject to regular thermal cycling and load rather than the particular risks associated with long-term standing such as dried seals or seized calipers. The consistent year-on-year mileage accumulation means the hybrid powertrain, including the high-voltage battery pack, inverter, and electric drive units, has been exercised regularly, which is generally favourable for those systems, though the high overall mileage places greater demand on conventional consumables and mechanical items. Tyres, brake components, suspension bushes, and engine mountings will have all been worked considerably harder than on a lower-mileage example. From a buyer inspection perspective, particular attention should be directed to the front suspension. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over uneven roads and speed bumps, which would indicate the worn arm pins or bushes noted in 2021 and 2025 have progressed to excessive movement. With the vehicle raised, the front lower arms should be levered with a bar to check for play in the pin or bush assembly; any discernible movement confirms replacement is due. The steering should also be checked for vagueness or instability, as worn front bushes can allow toe-out changes under acceleration and braking. Given the recurring front and rear advisories, a comprehensive suspension overhaul including arms, bushes, and drop links is a realistic budgeting item. The braking system requires particular vigilance, especially after the dangerous advisory on the nearside rear disc. On test, the brake pedal should feel firm and progressive without excessive travel, and pulling the car to one side under steady braking would suggest a binding caliper or uneven pad wear, a known risk on high-mileage hybrids that frequently use regenerative braking and can suffer from rear caliper seizure. The handbrake should hold firmly on an incline, as the rear brake mechanism may have been lightly used. Inspect the rear discs and pads directly for lipping, scoring, and pad material remaining, and budget for a full rear brake refurbishment including discs, pads, and likely a caliper strip and clean. The tyre condition should be evaluated carefully, paying attention to cracking on the sidewalls, uneven shoulder wear indicating misalignment, and overall tread depth, as the nearside rear tyre was already flagged as damaged and misshapen. Finally, examine the underside for the corrosion pattern noted in 2024, particularly the sills, rear suspension subframe, and mounting points; surface rust is manageable, but any bubbling paint, flaking scale that flakes away to reveal perforation, or corrosion around structural load paths would significantly affect the vehicle's long-term viability.