2007 Lexus RX350 3.5L Petrol · ML03 JLL

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this Lexus RX350, conducted on 28 February 2022, resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is a positive immediate indicator. However, the maintenance trend over the documented period shows a somewhat inconsistent pattern, with two failures and various advisories interspersed between clean passes. The earlier 2022 failure was particularly concerning due to a dangerous defect involving a nearside front tyre with ply or cords exposed, alongside major issues with position lamps and the registration plate lamp. While the latest pass is reassuring, prospective buyers should treat the overall record as showing intermittent neglect rather than a consistently well-maintained vehicle, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection is therefore essential. The recorded mileage of 193,193 miles on a 2007 vehicle equates to an annual average of approximately 10,168 miles, which is broadly typical for a car of this age. The MOT history indicates largely continuous annual testing, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods. While this averts some concerns about seized brakes, perished components, and battery degradation associated with low-use vehicles, the substantial overall mileage means that mechanical wear on major components such as the engine, automatic transmission, suspension, and drivetrain should be evaluated with appropriate care. Given the high odometer reading, verifying the presence of a comprehensive service history with documented cambelt, transmission fluid, and coolant renewals is critical. Regarding recurring defects, the position lamp failures on both sides of the front end in early 2020, and the nearside front position lamp failure again in February 2022, indicate a recurring electrical concern with the front lighting circuit. This may point to faulty bulb holders, corroded connectors, or wiring issues that should be physically inspected and tested. The tyre advisories and the dangerous tyre failure in 2022, specifically on the nearside front and repeatedly noted as worn on the edge, strongly suggest an ongoing wheel alignment or suspension geometry issue. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for suspension knocks or clonks over bumps, check for uneven or feathered tyre wear across all four corners, and pay particular attention to the steering for any pulling or vibration. The exhaust leak advisory from 2021, alongside the coolant leak noted in 2020 which prevented an emissions test, also warrants inspection; any signs of fresh coolant staining, low expansion tank levels, or an exhaust blowing under load would require immediate attention. Given the vehicle is now nineteen years old and has covered nearly 200,000 miles, additional age and mileage-related checks beyond the MOT record are strongly advised. Brake discs and calipers on a high-mileage vehicle of this age are prone to corrosion, sticking sliders, and worn pads, so the buyer should verify smooth wheel rotation and check for binding when driving. Rubber components such as suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and engine mountings will likely show significant wear, and a thorough inspection on a ramp is recommended. The timing chain on the 2GR-FE engine, while generally robust, should be listened to at startup for any rattle, and the transmission should be tested for smooth shifts in all gears. Finally, confirming the age and condition of the 12-volt battery, inspecting all fluid levels and their condition, and checking for any signs of structural corrosion on common RX areas such as the rear tailgate, sills, and suspension mounting points will provide a comprehensive view of this high-mileage vehicle's true roadworthiness.