2000 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · W577 KAW

The latest MOT, taken on 28 June 2022 at 117 880 miles, confirms the vehicle is road‑worthy. The tester noted corrosion on the front and rear sub‑frames and on the front suspension arms, but all were “not seriously weakened” (5.3.3 (b)(i)). No new mechanical failures were recorded, indicating a stable maintenance trend. Earlier tests in 2021 and 2020 flagged the same corrosion and a persistent issue with the front lower suspension arm dust covers, but the vehicle has not failed for structural or safety‑critical defects since 2015. At 26 years old the RAV4 has accumulated only 117 880 miles, an average of about 4 500 miles per year. The mileage record shows long periods of low annual mileage – for example, 4 300 miles between 1 June 2018 and 10 June 2019, and 4 400 miles between 10 June 2019 and 24 June 2020. The most rapid accumulation occurred between 24 June 2020 and 2 July 2020, a span of 59 miles in eight days, but this is a normal short‑term variation. Overall, the mileage pattern is sparse and consistent with light use or long storage intervals, which may explain the relatively low wear on consumables. A prospective buyer should focus on the recurring faults that appear in the MOT history. Inspect the front lower suspension arm dust covers for damage or corrosion, as they have been repeatedly flagged. Check the front shock absorbers for fluid leaks, particularly the unit that failed in 2015. Verify that the stop lamps are operational, since a non‑obligatory stop lamp failure was recorded in 2021. Examine the sub‑frames and suspension arms for rust depth; although not structurally critical now, progressive corrosion could become a future concern. Finally, review the windscreen for the documented damage, and inspect the tyres for wear, noting that both rear tyres were perishing in 2015. These checks will confirm whether the vehicle’s maintenance history aligns with its current condition.