2009 Lexus IS250 2.5L Petrol · MB09 MCK

A consistent pattern emerges across all seven recorded MOT tests for this Lexus IS250: every annual examination has returned a pass with no failures, yet every single test from 2020 onward has carried an advisory. The mechanical story of this car is therefore one of borderline compliance rather than outright defects, with the inspector repeatedly noting concerns on the nearside front tyre and wheel area. The most recent test on 26-08-24 passed, continuing this unbroken pass streak, but it again flagged a slightly damaged nearside front tyre outer sidewall under section 5.2.3 (d) (ii), identical wording to advisories issued in 2024 and 2023. Earlier advisories on the same component used the closely related 5.2.3 (d) (i) wording, and the 2020 test noted curb damage to alloys. The fact that the same corner of the car keeps drawing attention across consecutive years suggests an ongoing contact or kerbing issue that has not yet breached the pass/fail threshold but warrants close physical scrutiny at the viewing. Recorded mileage of 63,847 miles across a 2009 registration equates to roughly 3,756 miles per year over its 17-year life, which is notably low for the vehicle's age. The MOT records contain no mileage readings, so it is not possible to confirm whether the accumulation has been steady, front-loaded, or interrupted by periods off the road. Low annual mileage of this nature typically means reduced wear on high-cycle components such as brake discs and pads, clutch friction material, and engine internals, but it can equally indicate long stationary periods during which rubber components deteriorate through age rather than use. Items such as drive belts, coolant hoses, suspension bushes, coil springs, and the original 2009-vintage tyres are all vulnerable to perishing regardless of mileage covered, and an inspection should weigh age-related degradation just as heavily as wear-related wear. Given the repeated nearside front tyre advisories, particular attention should be paid to that corner during a physical examination. Inspect the nearside front tyre's outer sidewall for any cuts, bulges, or exposed cords, and check the nearside front alloy for kerbing damage that could be causing repeated sidewall contact. On the test drive, listen for any rhythmic knocking or thumping from the nearside front suspension over uneven roads, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, a failing top mount, or a tired coil spring, all of which are plausible on a 17-year-old vehicle. Steering should feel precise and self-centring without pulling to either side under acceleration or braking, and any vagueness or knocking through the rack would warrant further investigation into track rod ends and suspension linkages. The remainder of the testable items have drawn no recorded advisories across the seven-year MOT window, but the absence of recorded defects does not confirm the condition of those systems. Brake feel should be firm and progressive with no binding or judder under foot, the handbrake should hold on a modest incline without excessive travel, and the steering wheel should remain stationary during light braking. With the engine running, check for any excessive smoke from the exhaust, irregular idle, or warning lights on the instrument cluster, as these would not be captured in MOT data but are common concerns on a vehicle of this age. The underside and wheel arches should be examined for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and brake pipe runs, given the vehicle's age and the typical exposure to winter road treatments. Finally, verify that all advisory items have been physically addressed or monitored, and insist on seeing documentary evidence of any remedial work carried out between tests.