2009 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric · RF09 CBY

The most recent DVSA MOT test recorded for this 2009 Toyota Prius took place on 10 October 2024, where the vehicle achieved a Pass alongside a separate recorded Fail outcome on the same date. The Pass was issued with a Minor defect for a deteriorated offside front track rod end ball joint dust cover, accompanied by advisories relating to corroded nearside and offside rear brake pipes, slight free play in the steering rack, and corrosion on the nearside rear coil spring. The Fail on the same day was attributed to a Major defect for an excessively worn offside front anti-roll bar ball joint, which represents a significant steering and suspension concern. Examining the recent history, the maintenance trend appears to be gradually worsening, with an increasing density of advisories relating to braking, steering, and suspension corrosion, alongside a repeat Major failure on braking components in 2022. This is characteristic of a high-mileage hybrid entering its late teens, where wear items and underbody corrosion begin to accelerate. With 218,215 miles recorded against a 17-year-old vehicle, the Prius has covered an average of approximately 12,800 miles annually, which is notably high for its age and well above the typical UK average. The consistent year-on-year test entries with no significant mileage gaps indicate sustained, regular use rather than long periods of standing, which is mechanically beneficial in terms of avoiding severe standing corrosion or seized brake calipers, but it does mean that consumables such as brake discs, pads, suspension bushes, and the hybrid battery pack have accumulated considerable wear. The substantial mileage also raises the importance of verifying the state of the hybrid system, transmission fluid history, and engine oil consumption, as these are known wear points on the Prius powertrain at this stage of life. Given the recurring advisories for corroded rear brake pipes, coil spring corrosion, and steering rack free play, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful physical inspection. On test drive, listen for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would suggest the anti-roll bar ball joints or suspension bushes have deteriorated further. Steering should feel precise without excessive slack, and any vagueness or knocking when turning could indicate worsening rack wear or track rod end play. The brake pedal should feel firm with no sponginess, and the car should pull up in a straight line without shuddering. A thorough underbody inspection on a ramp is strongly advisable to assess the brake pipe corrosion, as surface corrosion on copper brake lines can progress to perforation, and to verify the condition of the coil springs, exhaust system, and any oil leaks referenced in earlier advisories. Beyond the items flagged in the MOT history, age-appropriate checks remain important even on a high-mileage vehicle. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected for perishing or cracking from age, and the offside front inner edge wear noted in 2022 should be monitored as a possible indicator of tracking or suspension geometry issues. The 12V auxiliary battery, which is critical for hybrid system boot-up, should be tested for health as these typically require replacement every five to six years. Brake discs should be checked for lipping and corrosion, particularly given the standing periods that hybrids often experience. Finally, confirm that brake fluid, engine coolant, and inverter coolant have been serviced in line with manufacturer schedules, and request evidence of recent servicing including any hybrid battery health checks, as these will be defining factors in the long-term reliability and value of this particular example.