2016 Lexus IS 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · RF66 OSO

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Lexus IS was conducted on 2026-05-08, resulting in a passing outcome, though it revealed several critical advisories that warrant careful attention. Despite the passing grade, the presence of persistent issues—particularly the offside rear parking brake efficiency concern and the nearside and offside front anti-roll bar ball joint deterioration—suggests a pattern of recurring mechanical wear rather than a stable or improving maintenance trend. The failure to address these advisories in prior MOTs, alongside the severe tyre defects documented in 2023 and 2024, indicates that either the vehicle has been neglected or the previous owner failed to rectify fundamental issues before the test. The fact that the tyre failures were classified as dangerous highlights the urgency of addressing these problems, as exposed tyre cords and deep cuts pose significant safety risks, particularly on wet or uneven surfaces. The vehicle’s mileage of 73,368 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,337 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a ten-year-old car of this class. However, the MOT history reveals some anomalies in mileage accumulation, particularly the sudden failure in 2024 after a clean MOT in April, which may suggest either a period of higher-than-average usage or a mechanical issue that surfaced intermittently. The presence of exposed tyre cords and deep cuts in 2023 and 2024, coupled with the 2024 tyre pressure monitoring system failure, indicates that the vehicle has undergone significant wear on the rear tyres, which could have been exacerbated by rapid mileage accumulation or improper maintenance. Additionally, the anti-roll bar ball joint deterioration suggests that suspension components have been subjected to prolonged stress, potentially from aggressive driving or poor alignment. Given the recurring advisories and tyre failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the offside rear parking brake mechanism, which may require adjustment or repair to restore efficiency. The near and offside front anti-roll bar ball joints, showing severe deterioration, should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further suspension failure, which could lead to steering instability or alignment issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, such as clunks or rattles from the anti-roll bars, and check for uneven tyre wear or vibration, which may indicate misalignment or suspension wear. The exposed tyre cords and deep cuts necessitate immediate tyre replacement, as these defects compromise traction and handling, especially in adverse conditions. Additionally, the tyre pressure monitoring system failure means the vehicle lacks a reliable warning for underinflation, so manual checks should be conducted regularly to prevent further tyre damage. For the remaining systems, the buyer should verify the condition of the rear brake discs, which show signs of pitting but are not yet seriously weakened. While this may not require immediate replacement, the buyer should monitor their condition closely, as further pitting or warping could lead to reduced braking performance. The buyer should also inspect the vehicle for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, as prolonged idling or infrequent use can accelerate rust formation. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories present, it is advisable to check the service history for any missed maintenance, such as fluid replacements (oil, brake fluid, coolant) and timing belt inspection, which are critical for longevity. Finally, a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or structural integrity is recommended, as the 2024 tyre failures may have been exacerbated by poor road conditions or aggressive driving, warranting a comprehensive mechanical review.