2009 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric · RF09 DXB

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive care. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 83,944 miles resulted in a pass, it initially failed for an oil leak and both registration plate lamps. This follows a significant mechanical failure in September 2024 where the car presented multiple critical safety issues across the braking system and suspension. The trend suggests that while faults are eventually addressed to pass, the owner only intervenes when the MOT tester mandates a repair. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 83,944 miles is notably low, averaging under 5,000 miles per year. This low usage often masks age-related degradation of rubber and fluid components despite mechanical wear from distance. Between October 2023 and September 2024, the vehicle covered approximately 7,600 miles, indicating consistent but light use. However, the low mileage does not exempt the vehicle from the corrosion seen in the brake pipes and the perished rubber boots that were flagged during the 2024 inspection. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system and suspension assembly. The 2024 failure highlighted a leaking nearside rear brake pipe, corroded offside rear piping, and low brake efficiency, which necessitates verification that the entire system was bled and inspected and that the ABS fault has been properly cleared. Additionally, the steering rack free play noted in 2023 and the deteriorated ball joint dust cover from 2024 suggest that the steering and suspension components are reaching the end of their service life. The oil leak identified in 2025 also requires a close look to determine if it is a minor seal or a more significant gasket failure that could worsen over time.