2015 Lexmoto FMX 0.1L Petrol · WD65 LME

The 2015 Lexmotocfmx presents a mechanical profile defined by a brief but severe failure episode in early 2022 followed by a quick return to compliance. The most recent official MOT recorded on 2022-02-17 showed no defects, confirming the vehicle cleared its final pre-sale examination after a challenging interim test on 2022-02-14. That earlier failure was particularly concerning, featuring dangerously thin rear brake pads below the 1.0 mm threshold along with completely absent front brake pads, alongside a roller brake test efficiency that fell far short of the required 25%. While the subsequent passing result demonstrates the vehicle was brought back into legal roadworthiness, the narrow three-day window between the two tests raises questions about the completeness of the remedial work performed during that interval, and the severity of the original deficiencies warrants continued vigilance even though the current certificate reads clear. At 14,670 miles on an eleven-year-old chassis, the vehicle accumulates approximately 1,334 miles annually—a figure that appears unusually low for a car of its age and suggests either infrequent driving or extended periods of storage rather than regular use. This low mileage acceleration rate contrasts sharply with typical consumption patterns and implies that the brake system repairs mentioned in the 2022 failure may not have been fully integrated or may have been applied to a different instance of the same vehicle. The absence of significant engine or transmission failures noted in the MOT history is reassuring, yet the gap between the failed test on 2022-02-14 and the successful retest on 2022-02-17 represents a critical testing period where the vehicle's braking performance could have deteriorated again if the repair was incomplete or if additional damage occurred during the intervening weeks. Focusing on the specific components flagged in the advisory record, the rear brake assembly requires particular attention. The original failure indicated pad thickness below the minimum safe limit and compromised rotor contact through the roller brake test, meaning the rear disc system—likely the primary stopping surface for the vehicle—is prone to uneven wear or glazing that could affect braking consistency. On a test drive, the buyer should monitor for any pulling to one side during hard braking, especially on descending inclines, and listen for high-pitched squealing or grinding from the rear wheel hub area. The front brake situation also demands verification despite the initial pass, as the original failure noted complete absence of front pads; even if they have been replaced since, the underlying hardware integrity and pad material quality merit inspection. A gentle press of the brake pedal should reveal any spongy feel or premature fade, and the parking brake engagement should be checked for proper firmness throughout the travel cycle. Beyond the brake system, the original structural concern regarding an insecure motorcyclist-style joining/attachment plate or fastening point warrants a visual inspection of the subframe and suspension mounting points for signs of rust penetration, loosened bolts, or structural deformation. Given the modest mileage, rust progression may be limited, but the presence of any corrosion at these critical load-bearing interfaces could compromise long-term reliability if left unaddressed. If the vehicle has sat for extended periods, condensation or moisture trapped in joints could have exacerbated the original brake failure conditions. Ultimately, while the 2022-02-17 MOT confirms current compliance, the buyer should treat the near-immediate recovery from dangerous flagging as a cautionary marker rather than a guarantee of ongoing reliability, and schedule a comprehensive post-purchase inspection focusing specifically on the rear brake system, front brake hardware, and subframe integrity before committing to ownership.