2001 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · X487 DKU

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2025-09-04 at 99,312 miles was passed without defects, suggesting a temporary resolution of prior issues. However, recurring brake disc failures—specifically nearside rear and front discs flagged as seriously weakened in 2024 and earlier—indicate a persistent problem. The 2024 test also revealed multiple brake disc issues alongside wiper and tyre faults, pointing to potential neglect in addressing wear patterns. While the 2025 result is positive, the repeated brake disc deterioration over three years (2021, 2024) signals an unresolved trend that could escalate into safety risks if unchecked. With 99,312 miles on a 25-year-old vehicle, the mileage is notably low, averaging 3,972 miles annually. This suggests periods of inactivity or light use, which may have delayed wear on high-stress components like brakes and suspension. However, the 2022-2024 MOTs show sudden mileage jumps (e.g., 93,947 to 97,880 miles in two years), hinting at inconsistent usage. The low overall mileage contrasts with recurring mechanical faults, implying that when driven, wear occurs unevenly or is poorly maintained. The absence of structural advisories in recent tests is reassuring but does not offset the frequency of consumable component failures. The buyer should prioritize inspecting the brake system, particularly disc condition and pad wear, as these have been chronic issues since at least 2015. The repeated brake disc pitting or scoring raises concerns about material integrity and potential failure under stress. Tyre wear, flagged in multiple tests (2016, 2022), warrants checking tread depth and alignment, as uneven wear could indicate suspension or wheel bearing problems. Additionally, the recurring wiper failures (2018, 2022) and headlamp obstructions suggest inconsistent maintenance of exterior components. While no major structural rust is documented, the vehicle’s age demands scrutiny of undercarriage and suspension bushes for corrosion or wear. Given the pattern of brake and tyre faults, the buyer must verify that replacements were performed with quality parts and that no underlying mechanical degradation exists. The low mileage reduces immediate wear risks but does not eliminate the need to assess components that may have deteriorated due to disuse or improper servicing. A test drive focusing on brake responsiveness, tyre grip, and wiper functionality is essential to confirm whether the 2025 pass reflects genuine reliability or a temporary fix.