2010 Lexus IS250 2.2L Petrol · SC10 AHF

The most recent DVSA examination carried out on 19 March 2024 returned a PASS with no advisories or defects recorded, and the two preceding tests in 2023 and 2022 were similarly clean. Tracing further back through the record, the only outright failure occurred in August 2019 due to a nearside front tyre with a cut exposing the ply or cords, accompanied by advisories for both front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and on edge. The following year in 2020 and subsequently through to the 2024 pass, no further tyre or related issues were logged, which suggests the failure was rectified at the time and has not recurred. However, it is worth noting that three advisories were raised at the August 2021 test concerning corrosion on the front brake pipes to the rear, covered in grease or other material. The absence of any further brake-related entries in the 2022, 2023, or 2024 tests indicates the issue was either treated cosmetically or not progressed to the point of further intervention, but brake line corrosion on a 16-year-old vehicle is an area that warrants close physical inspection as it can advance beneath a surface coating. Recorded mileage of 78,726 miles on a 2010 Lexus IS250 equates to an annual average of roughly 4,920 miles, which is considerably below the typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual mileage often points to extended periods of standing or only short, infrequent journeys, both of which carry their own mechanical consequences. Limited running prevents the engine, exhaust system, and catalytic converter from reaching and sustaining full operating temperature, encouraging moisture accumulation in the sump, exhaust condensate retention, and potential oil dilution. Braking systems left unused for prolonged periods are susceptible to corrosion on the disc surfaces and within the caliper bores, while the underbody and suspension components are exposed to standing corrosion in damp conditions, particularly around the brake lines already noted in the 2021 advisories. Given the absence of recurring defects across the MOT history, attention on a pre-purchase inspection should centre on age and time-related deterioration rather than wear from high mileage. The tyres should be scrutinised not only for tread depth but more importantly for sidewall perishing and cracking, which naturally develops with age regardless of mileage, and the production date codes on the sidewalls should be checked for any tyres still in service beyond approximately six years. Under-bonnet conditions warrant a careful look, including the state of the 12V battery, which on a vehicle of this vintage is highly likely to be due for replacement and should be load-tested; the condition and colour of the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, all of which degrade on a calendar basis with brake fluid being hygroscopic and due for renewal every two years regardless of mileage; and any signs of oil weep from the valve cover gaskets, which are a known wear item on this generation of Lexus V6 engines. Drive belts, hoses, and the condition of the engine mounting bushes should also be assessed for cracking and hardening consistent with age. On a road test, particular attention should be paid to the behaviour of the brakes after standing, listening for any initial grinding, shudder, or juddering through the steering as corroded discs make contact with the pads, and confirming that the calipers release cleanly without any tendency to bind. The suspension should be exercised over uneven surfaces to detect any clonks, rattles, or knocking that may indicate perished or hardened bushes in the front and rear wishbones, anti-roll bar links, or dropped linkages, all of which are time-sensitive on a low-mileage but ageing chassis. The steering should be checked for smoothness and absence of excess play, and the transmission should be observed for clean, positive shifts in the automatic gearbox, which on the IS250 should also demonstrate fluid changes at the correct service intervals. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for blueing at the joints, evidence of condensate leakage, and any fractured hangers or corroded mounting rubbers, as standing and short journeys can accelerate internal corrosion of the rear silencer and tailpipe assembly.