2009 Toyota RAV4 XT-R D-4D 2.2L Heavy oil · VK59 WRG

A clean pass was recorded at the most recent test on 2 July 2024, with no advisories or defects noted, and that result forms the current roadworthy status of this 2009 Toyota RAV4 XT-R D-4D. Looking across the available DVSA history, there are four MOT entries between March 2022 and July 2024, of which three resulted in passes with no defects and one resulted in a failure on 10 June 2024 that was followed up by a clean pass just 22 days later. The pattern suggests the 2024 failure was addressed quickly and rectified before the retest, leaving the headline mechanical story one of consistent roadworthiness at the most recent assessment. With four tests recorded, the overall trend at face value is stable, though the brevity of the available record limits how much weight can be placed on long-term component wear predictions. The recorded mileage of 151,666 miles spread across approximately 17 years of age equates to an annual accumulation of around 8,922 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this vintage. There is a notable gap in the MOT history between the March 2023 test and the June 2024 entry, suggesting either the vehicle was not presented for testing during that intervening period or that earlier records were not captured in the data supplied. Mechanically, an annual mileage at this level points to steady rather than severe use, which on a diesel RAV4 of this age tends to translate into predictable wear on brake discs, pads, suspension bushes, anti-roll bar linkages and the dual-mass flywheel if a manual transmission is fitted. The diesel D-4D unit in particular warrants attention to oil consumption, injector weepage and timing belt service intervals, given that the vehicle has now covered over 150,000 miles. Given the absence of recorded advisories across all visible tests, a prospective buyer cannot rely on the MOT history to flag specific worn components and should instead approach the inspection as a proactive exercise rather than a reactive one. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which on a RAV4 of this age commonly points to worn front lower arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links or top mount bearings. Steering should feel precise without excessive play or pulling to one side under braking, and the diesel clutch, if fitted, should engage smoothly without slipping under load or juddering on takeoff. On the road, check for any blue smoke from the exhaust on startup or hard acceleration which would indicate oil consumption issues typical of high-mileage D-4D engines, and feel for vibration through the steering wheel or brake pedal that may suggest warped front discs. The brakes deserve close physical inspection given the mileage, as discs and pads on a diesel of this age and weight are commonly nearing the end of their service life even without advisories being raised. Examine the brake pipes, calipers and flexible hoses for any surface corrosion or weeping, particularly along the underbody and rear axle area where road salt accumulates. The underbody should be inspected on a ramp for any surface rust on subframe, suspension arms and exhaust mounting points, paying particular attention to the rear arch areas and any steel brake lines routed along the chassis rails. Diesel-specific items worth checking include the condition of the turbo actuator linkage, the intercooler hoses for splits or oil contamination, and the EGR valve for carbon build-up which can present as rough idle or hesitation under light load. Finally, confirm the timing belt and water pump replacement history independently, as this service is critical on the D-4D engine and would typically be due well within the current odometer reading.