2006 Toyota RAV-4 2.2L Diesel · AB06 RAV

The 2006 Toyota RAV-4 currently meets roadworthiness standards following its May 2025 MOT at 119,237 miles, with no defects recorded. However, the maintenance trend remains ambiguous due to two consecutive MOT failures in 2025 and 2024, both occurring just days before passing tests. These failures, which also recorded no defects, suggest potential administrative errors or unrecorded issues. The vehicle’s low mileage of 119,237 miles over 20 years equates to an average of 5,962 miles annually, significantly below typical usage. This could indicate infrequent use or prolonged inactivity, which may affect fluid longevity, battery health, and component corrosion. The MOT history reveals a sharp mileage increase from 95,413 miles in May 2023 to 119,237 miles by May 2025, a 23,824-mile rise over 24 months. This acceleration contrasts with the earlier 12,711-mile jump between 2023 and 2024, raising questions about usage patterns. While the vehicle has no recorded defects, the absence of detailed failure notes for the two failed tests limits insight into potential underlying issues. The sparse data suggests a lack of thorough inspection history, which could mask gradual wear in critical systems. A buyer should prioritise in-person checks for suspension components, particularly bushes and coil springs, given the low mileage’s potential to mask age-related stiffness. Brake systems, including calipers and discs, warrant scrutiny, as does the exhaust for corrosion, which may develop during periods of inactivity. Structural integrity should also be verified, as rust can progress unnoticed in vehicles with minimal use. The lack of recorded advisories or defects does not eliminate risks, and the recent MOT’s timing—over 14 months ago—highlights the need for a pre-purchase inspection to confirm continued compliance.