1998 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · S153 CRR

The most recent MOT on 5 March 2026 was passed, with an advisory noting an oil leak that is not excessive. Over the last six years the vehicle has consistently passed its annual test, the only recurring comment being the same oil‑leak advisory each year and a single minor lamp fault in 2022. The dangerous rear‑tyre tear recorded in 2019 was remedied, and no further safety‑critical defects have been reported, indicating a generally stable maintenance record, though the persistent oil‑leak advisory suggests a component that has not been fully rectified. At 26 945 miles the RAV4 averages just under 1 000 miles per year over its 28‑year life, a usage rate far below typical for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber, seals and metal components even when wear from distance is minimal. The low mileage does not eliminate the need for thorough inspection of wear items, but it does mean that any deterioration is more likely to be calendar‑based rather than mileage‑based. When you inspect the car, focus first on the source of the oil leak. Common origins on this model are the valve‑cover gasket, oil‑pan gasket or crankshaft rear seal; look for fresh oil spots on the sump, under the engine bay and on the exhaust manifold, and verify that the oil level remains stable between fills. On a test drive listen for any oil‑related noises such as a faint ticking from a leaking valve cover, and watch for blue‑tinted smoke on acceleration which would indicate oil entering the combustion chamber. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and, crucially, the DOT code to confirm they are not beyond six years old; any signs of separation, bulging or uneven wear should be treated as a potential safety issue. Check the off‑side registration‑plate lamp and all other lighting functions, as the 2022 advisory may have been resolved but should be confirmed. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a comprehensive age‑related check is essential. Inspect the suspension bushings, ball joints and shock absorbers for corrosion, dryness or excessive play, and verify that the steering feels tight without clunking. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear and ensure the pads have adequate material; binding calipers are common on cars that sit for long periods. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and cranking performance, and consider a load test as electrolyte can degrade even when the battery appears visually sound. Review the condition of all fluid reservoirs – coolant, brake, power‑steering and transmission – looking for water contamination, sludge or low levels, and be prepared to replace them if they have not been changed within the last two to three years. Finally, the 1998 RAV4 is equipped with a timing belt that, despite the low mileage, should be inspected for age‑related cracking and replaced as a preventative measure, as belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage regardless of distance driven.