2017 Lexus RX 3.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · PDZ 211

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 3 March 2026, resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that at the time of examination the vehicle met all statutory roadworthiness requirements. However, the immediately preceding test on 28 February 2026 failed on a dangerous tyre tread depth infringement at the nearside front, accompanied by several advisories relating to suspension components. Looking at the broader four-year pattern, there is a discernible worsening trend: the 2023 test was a clean pass, the 2024 test introduced a single advisory concerning an offside rear trailing arm bush, the 2025 test expanded to five advisories across both axles and both front tyres, and the early 2026 entry recorded a dangerous failure alongside four suspension advisories before the subsequent retest passed cleanly. The fact that the most recent test returned a clean sheet suggests remedial work was undertaken to address the dangerous tyre and likely some of the worn suspension components, but the recurring nature of the suspension advisories across consecutive tests indicates ongoing wear that warrants close scrutiny. With 92,255 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Lexus RX has covered an average of around 10,251 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class and suggests neither prolonged standing nor exceptionally heavy use. The mileage progression across the recorded MOT entries appears consistent and incremental, pointing to regular rather than erratic driving patterns. At this mileage, mechanical wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes is entirely expected, and while the annual rate is moderate, the cumulative effect of nearly 100,000 miles of use means drivetrain components including the automatic transmission, hybrid system components where applicable, and engine ancillaries should be regarded as mid-to-late life items requiring vigilant inspection. The persistent advisories across the 2025 and early 2026 tests regarding worn trailing arm bushes at both rear sides and a worn lower suspension arm pin or bush at the nearside front are mechanically significant. These components deteriorate progressively and are typically replaced with the associated arm assembly rather than as isolated bushes on modern Lexus platforms. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonks or knocks from the suspension over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during direction changes, as well as pay attention to any vagueness in steering response or irregular tyre wear patterns, particularly inner-edge wear which often accompanies worn lower arm bushes. Given that the advisories were repeated across consecutive tests and may not all have been rectified before the 2026 retest, it would be prudent to have the vehicle inspected on a ramp to assess current bush condition, as continued driving with worn trailing arm bushes can lead to rear wheel alignment instability, accelerated rear tyre wear, and compromised handling. The 2025 advisories concerning both front tyres being worn on the edge suggest a possible tracking or suspension geometry issue, and the buyer should verify that four-wheel alignment has been checked and that replacement tyres are wearing evenly. Beyond the documented advisories, prospective buyers should conduct a thorough physical appraisal appropriate to a nine-year-old Lexus with moderate mileage. Although the recorded MOT history does not flag corrosion advisories, the rear brake discs in particular should be examined for surface rust and any evidence of binding calipers after standing, as standing corrosion is common on lightly used vehicles and can manifest as uneven braking or pulling to one side. The 12V auxiliary battery should be tested for state of health, as Lexus vehicles are particularly sensitive to low battery voltage which can trigger dashboard warning lights and system faults. Brake fluid should be considered due for replacement on a time-based schedule regardless of mileage, typically every two to three years, and the hybrid system coolant if fitted along with the conventional engine coolant should be verified in line with manufacturer service intervals. All tyres should be inspected for age-related sidewall cracking or perishing, and the spare or emergency repair kit should be checked for completeness. Finally, verifying a complete service book history with stamps at the correct intervals will provide the strongest evidence that routine maintenance has been diligently observed, complementing the MOT record in confirming overall mechanical condition.