2013 Lexus CT 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · LR63 RYB

The most recent DVSA examination on 7 May 2026 resulted in a PASS, although two advisories were issued concerning an offside rear brake pipe that is corroded but presently masked by grease or other protective material, and rear brake pads noted as wearing thin on both sides. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than deteriorating, but the record does demonstrate a recurring theme of brake and tyre related wear items. The vehicle passed cleanly in 2020 and 2024, but failed dangerously in December 2021 due to exposed ply or cords on both front tyres, and failed again in April 2024 due to dangerously thin front brake pads below 1.5 mm, which prevented brake performance testing. The subsequent re-tests on the same dates passed, indicating that remedial work was carried out promptly. The repetition of brake pipe corrosion across multiple tests is the principal area warranting closer attention, as surface corrosion on these unprotected sections can progress to wall thinning and eventual fluid leakage. With a recorded mileage of 50,382 miles over approximately thirteen years, this Lexus CT averages around 3,876 miles per annum, which is considerably below the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this age and represents low usage. Such low annual mileage can be indicative of either a genuine low-use owner, a second car, or extended periods of standing, all of which carry their own mechanical implications. Long standing periods commonly lead to brake disc corrosion and binding calipers, deterioration of coolant and brake fluid through age rather than mileage, hardening and perishing of rubber components such as tyres, bushes and drive belts, and premature 12V battery failure. Equally, the MOT record shows no significant annual mileage gaps, with tests conducted fairly regularly, which suggests the vehicle has remained in active use rather than being laid up for prolonged periods. From a buyer inspection perspective, the persistent advisories relating to the rear brake pipe corrosion warrant a physical examination underneath the vehicle, ideally on a ramp, to determine the extent of any wall thinning and to ascertain whether the protective grease coating has merely been applied as a temporary cosmetic measure. On a test drive, listen for any scraping, binding, or pulsing through the brake pedal, particularly from the rear axle, and verify that the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on an incline without excessive travel. The advisories regarding rear brake pad wear suggest replacement is imminent, so budget for a rear axle pad and disc check at the point of purchase. Inquire whether the brake fluid has been renewed, as hygroscopic brake fluid should be replaced every two years regardless of mileage to prevent internal corrosion of the ABS modulator and brake calipers. Given the low annual mileage and the thirteen-year age of the vehicle, several age-related checks are particularly important. Inspect all four tyres closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and manufacturing date codes, as the 2021 advisories already noted perishing on the rear pair and the dangerous failure on the front pair, which suggests tyres may have been replaced but the underlying storage conditions could continue to degrade rubber prematurely. Examine the underside, suspension arms, coil springs, and anti-roll bar bushes for surface corrosion and any play, as standing vehicles often develop seized or perished bushes. Verify the coolant strength with a refractometer to confirm adequate antifreeze protection, check the 12V battery with a load tester or by date code, and confirm the timing chain or belt service history where applicable to the powertrain. Finally, request evidence of regular servicing, including oil and filter changes at calendar intervals even if mileage thresholds have not been reached, to ensure the hybrid system, engine, and transmission have been maintained in keeping with manufacturer recommendations.