2009 Toyota Prius 1.8L Electric · LS59 AAE

The most recent MOT test on 2025-04-09 confirms the vehicle passed without defects, though it follows an unusual pattern of two consecutive failures in early 2025 and late 2024—both without recorded issues. This inconsistency suggests either a temporary administrative oversight in test centre recording or, more likely, that the vehicle narrowly avoided unlisted faults during those failures. The trend since 2024-03-25 remains stable in terms of passing status, though the lack of defects in failures raises suspicion about what may have been overlooked. The 2025-04-01 failure at 326,739 miles and the 2025-04-09 pass at 326,781 miles—just eight days later—implies the vehicle was retested immediately after a minor adjustment, possibly addressing a borderline condition like tyre pressure or minor corrosion. The recorded mileage of 326,781 miles over 17 years equates to approximately 19,200 miles annually, which is unusually high for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the 2024-09-25 failure at 317,439 miles and the 2024-10-03 pass at 317,882 miles—suggest rapid mileage accumulation over just eight days, reinforcing the high annual average. This pattern indicates either consistent heavy use or extended periods of neglect between services. The absence of any advisories or defects in the MOT history does not preclude significant wear on high-mileage components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or drivetrain joints, which are not routinely inspected under MOT but are critical to structural integrity. Given the high mileage and the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension components—particularly the rear subframe mounts and bushings, which are prone to fatigue at this mileage. The braking system, while not explicitly failed, warrants scrutiny for uneven wear on rear discs or binding calipers, as these conditions often go unnoticed until they become severe. Corrosion should be checked thoroughly at wheel arches, sills, and underbody, especially given the vehicle’s age and exposure history. The lack of advisories in past tests does not guarantee these areas are intact, so visual and functional assessment is essential. Additionally, the engine bay should be inspected for fluid leaks, as high mileage increases the risk of degraded hoses or gaskets.