2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · AF04 WUG

The most recent MOT test on the 2004 Toyota RAV4 occurred on 2026-06-05, where it passed with a single advisory regarding worn suspension arm pins or bushes on both rear arms, classified as not causing excessive movement. While this indicates a recurring issue—highlighted in prior tests—there is no evidence of a deteriorating maintenance trend. The vehicle’s performance in subsequent years has been consistent, with only minor or non-dangerous defects, suggesting that while some wear is present, the fundamental roadworthiness remains intact. The absence of multiple major failures or repeated dangerous defects over the past decade supports a stable long-term condition, though the suspension advisories warrant closer attention to prevent further alignment or handling degradation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 150,172 miles over approximately 22 years represents an average annual usage of around 6,826 miles, which is within the expected range for this age and model. This rate does not suggest excessive wear from heavy usage, but it also does not indicate light or infrequent use that might have allowed certain components to degrade more slowly. The suspension and tyre wear advisories, particularly the repeated mention of worn suspension arm bushes and front tyre edge wear, point to consistent driving conditions that have accelerated component fatigue. Over time, this could lead to increased vibration, clunking noises from the suspension during cornering or over bumps, or uneven tyre wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or binding in the steering or suspension system. Regular inspection of the suspension linkage and alignment would be prudent to mitigate further deterioration. Given the recurring suspension advisories and the significant mileage, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the rear suspension arms, focusing on the bushings and pins for signs of excessive play, cracking, or oil leakage. Listen for any clunking or rattling noises from the rear during acceleration, braking, or cornering, as these could indicate worn suspension components. The front anti-roll bar ball joints, which failed MOT in 2024, should also be checked for excessive play, grinding sounds, or signs of dirt ingress, which could lead to binding or reduced control. If these joints are confirmed worn, replacement is strongly recommended before they cause further misalignment or handling issues. Additionally, the front tyres, particularly the near-side and offside, show consistent edge wear and tread depth concerns. A test drive should include checking for uneven tyre wear, which may suggest alignment or camber issues, and inspecting the tread depth for any signs of further degradation. For the broader vehicle inspection, the buyer should verify the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding, especially around the calipers and discs, as prolonged standing can accelerate rust formation. The brake fluid should be checked for contamination or degradation, as this can occur over time even without use. The exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or structural integrity, particularly given the age of the vehicle, and the emissions system should be tested for any signs of malfunction that could lead to further issues. The headlamps and visors, which have had minor defects noted, should be cleaned and tested for proper function, with the visors checked for proper stowage and alignment. Lastly, the battery should be tested for voltage and condition, as older vehicles may suffer from reduced capacity or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. Finally, the service history should be reviewed to confirm that routine maintenance such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and fluid top-ups have been conducted according to Toyota’s recommendations, as this will help mitigate further wear and extend the vehicle’s operational life.