1998 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · S623 JGM

The 1998 Toyota RAV4’s roadworthiness status is poor, with a worsening maintenance trend evident from its most recent MOT on 2022-11-15. Despite passing, the test revealed multiple corrosion issues, including front and rear sub-frame degradation, brake pipe contamination, and binding rear brakes. A prior failed test just seven days earlier highlighted severe suspension component corrosion, structural integrity concerns, and deteriorated CV boots. These recurring defects suggest inadequate upkeep, with critical systems like suspension and braking showing progressive deterioration rather than resolution. The vehicle’s mileage of 133,873 miles over 28 years equates to an average of 4,781 miles annually, significantly lower than typical usage. This low mileage may indicate infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity, exacerbating corrosion in exposed components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and underbody panels. Notably, the 2020-11-13 failed MOT recorded severe coil spring corrosion and exhaust mounting defects, while subsequent tests in 2021 and 2022 continued to flag rust-related issues. The sparse data between 2021 and 2022 raises questions about maintenance consistency, as no intermediate tests are recorded. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the vehicle’s structural integrity, focusing on corroded sub-frames, suspension arms, and brake systems. The repeated corrosion of coil springs, brake pipes, and suspension mounts indicates potential weakness in load-bearing components, which could compromise safety. Additionally, the persistent headlamp lens defects and tyre perishing suggest neglect in routine checks. The CV boots and exhaust mounting issues from 2020 remain unresolved, requiring close examination for further deterioration. These faults collectively point to a vehicle in need of extensive mechanical and structural evaluation before purchase.