2001 Toyota RAV-4 1.8L Petrol · LM51 AEJ
2001 Toyota RAV-4 (1.8L, petrol). First registered 31 Oct 2001. Recorded mileage 209,082 miles. MOT expired on 28 Sept 2025.
- Make & Model
- TOYOTA RAV-4
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Wimbledon (South London)
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 28 Sept 2025
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 209,082 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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LM51 AEJ Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/09/2024
- 209,082 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
LM51 AEJ MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Toyota Rav-4 (LM51 AEJ) between September 2022 and September 2024.
The record contains 3 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 16 September 2024 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (4 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 8 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
LM51 AEJ Mileage History
- 30/09/2022196,300 mi
- 30/09/2022196,300 mi
- 27/09/2023202,192 mi+5,892 mi
- 16/09/2024209,082 mi+6,890 mi
Average of roughly 6,510 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution; while this RAV-4 is a high-mileage survivor that has stayed on the road, the consistent history of structural corrosion and mechanical wear requires a thorough mechanical inspection.
When inspecting a RAV-4 of this age and mileage, the primary concern is the chassis. Given the history of 'general surface corrosion throughout underside' and corroded suspension mounting points, a professional rust inspection is highly recommended to ensure structural integrity hasn't progressed beyond surface-level. Ask for a full service history; at over 200,000 miles, the timing belt (if equipped) and water pump intervals are critical to verify.
Check the interior specifically for seat belt condition, as the MOT history noted frayed offside front seat belt webbing in recent years. This is a safety item that should be replaced if damaged. Additionally, test the suspension for any raised knocks or clunks; the vehicle has a history of issues with anti-roll bar linkages and corroded coil springs, which are common wear items on high-mileage examples.
The 1.8L petrol engine is relatively thirsty compared to modern standards, with buyers likely to expect between 28-32 mpg depending on driving conditions. As an older petrol vehicle, it typically falls into a lower insurance bracket and tax band, making it affordable to run for a budget buyer.
Maintenance costs are generally predictable for Toyotas, but the high mileage means more frequent replacements of consumables like brakes, tyres, and bulbs. Estimate an annual running cost of approximately £1,200-£1,500, covering fuel, tax, insurance, and routine servicing fund.
Focus heavily on the underside. The MOT record shows a recurring theme of corrosion on suspension rods, mounting areas, and brake pipes. Check for deep rust on the rear arches and sills, as the 'surface corrosion' mentioned can often hide structural rot in older vehicles. Also inspect the exhaust system, as a minor leak was noted in 2022.
Examine the braking and suspension components. The history notes an excessively twisted offside front brake hose and past instances of offside brake binding. Ensure the car pulls straight and doesn't squeal excessively. Finally, check the headlamps for clouding or degradation, as this has been a recurring advisory item across multiple MOT inspections.
This 2001 Toyota RAV-4 has covered over 209,000 miles in its 25-year life. While it has passed its three most recent MOT tests, the history reveals long-term issues with surface rust and suspension-related wear. It represents a budget-friendly entry into a reliable SUV, but the high mileage and age suggest it is nearing a stage where significant maintenance may become necessary.
The first-generation RAV-4 is known for robust engines, but high-mileage examples often suffer from suspension wear and rubber component degradation.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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