2013 Lexus IS 2.5L Hybrid electric · RO63 FYS

This Lexus IS, tested just six months ago on 25 November 2025 at 132,658 miles, remains roadworthy but carries persistent and unresolved brake-related issues. The most recent MOT confirmed corrosion and contamination at both rear brake flex pipes, a fault that has recurred in every test since November 2024. While the vehicle passed, the consistent failure to address this—likely a simple grease or seal failure—suggests either neglect or a recurring manufacturing quirk in the brake pipe flex joints. The absence of further advisories or major defects indicates the car has not deteriorated catastrophically, but the rear brake system demands immediate attention. The binding offside rear brake noted in December 2021, though resolved at the time, raises questions about whether the underlying cause (potentially sticking calipers or uneven pad wear) has been properly addressed. The mileage progression of approximately 10,200 miles annually aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, with no abrupt spikes or prolonged inactivity. The most recent test occurred just six months prior, which is standard for a well-maintained car, though the lack of a 2026 test—due on 25 May—may warrant confirmation from the seller. The consistent annual mileage suggests regular driving rather than prolonged storage, reducing concerns about dry-rotted seals or degraded fluids. However, the repeated brake pipe faults imply either a pattern of deferred maintenance or a recurring component failure that hasn’t been systematically resolved. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear brake system, focusing on the flex pipe connections for further corrosion or leakage, and verifying whether the binding brake from 2021 has been rectified. The front brake discs, though worn in 2022, were not flagged in the latest tests, but their condition should still be checked for uneven wear or excessive thickness reduction. Given the history, the suspension bushes and coil springs—particularly at the rear—should also be examined for deterioration, as corrosion in brake pipes often correlates with environmental exposure affecting other metal components. Finally, the tyre cut from 2024 should be reassessed; if it has worsened or if the tread depth has fallen below legal limits, replacement will be necessary. The overall trend is stable but not reassuring, with critical components showing signs of prolonged exposure to neglect.