2010 Lexus RX450H 3.5L Hybrid electric · MX10 RZF

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 11 September 2025 at 198,113 miles, but the same day it initially failed with identical critical defects, indicating the repairs were only completed after the first attempt. The maintenance trend is worsening, not stabilising. Corrosion on the rear brake pipe, suspension arms, and sub-frame has persisted across four consecutive tests since 2023, with no sign of remediation beyond temporary fixes. The recurrence of these issues, alongside new advisories on front suspension bushes and inner sill corrosion, suggests systemic neglect of underbody protection and brake system maintenance. The vehicle has accumulated 18,533 miles in just 11 months between the October 2024 and September 2025 tests, a rate far exceeding its 12,382-mile annual average. This sudden spike implies heavy recent use or possible odometer tampering, especially given the absence of any intermediate tests. The gap between the October 2024 and September 2025 tests is unusually long for a vehicle with such advanced wear, raising questions about whether the car was stored or driven intensively during that period without oversight. A buyer must inspect the rear brake pipes for active leakage or further corrosion, as they have been flagged in every test since 2023 and are now covered in grease — a sign of ongoing seepage and poor repair. The front and rear suspension arms and sub-frame are visibly corroded and should be probed for hidden cracking or metal loss, particularly where the grease has masked the extent of rust. The front suspension bushes, worn since 2023, need checking for excessive play or rubber degradation. The inner sills, already noted as slightly corroded, require underbody inspection for structural penetration. The rear tyres showed balding on the inner edge in 2024; their current condition must be verified, as uneven wear often points to misalignment or worn suspension components. The brake system remains a critical concern. The fluctuating service brake fault in October 2024 and the corroded brake pipe suggest binding calipers or failing hydraulic components. A full brake inspection, including disc thickness and caliper operation, is essential. The repeated failure of the offside front position lamp is minor but indicative of broader electrical neglect. This vehicle carries multiple deferred structural and safety risks that cannot be ignored.