2004 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Diesel · AF04 WVR

The most recent MOT test on 2025-11-08 resulted in a passing grade, though it was accompanied by several persistent advisories that warrant careful attention. While the vehicle has not failed in the past year, the recurring issues—particularly the front brake pad wear, offside front tyre edge wear, and nearside rear suspension arm corrosion—suggest a pattern of wear that has not been fully addressed. The repeated failures of the offside front position lamps indicate a potential wiring or bulb issue that should be resolved to avoid future compliance problems. The advisory on the near-side rear child seat obstructing belt inspection is less critical but highlights a practical limitation that may affect future MOTs if the seat remains fitted. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable in terms of passing tests, but the advisories indicate ongoing wear that demands proactive servicing to prevent progression into more severe conditions. The recorded mileage of 185,066 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,412 miles, which is typical for its age group. Such mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but it does imply consistent use over time, which can accelerate component fatigue, particularly in suspension, brakes, and tyres. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular service rather than standing idle for prolonged periods, which could have exacerbated corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the wear advisories—especially on tyres and brakes—suggest that the vehicle has undergone considerable use, and these components should be monitored closely to avoid premature failure. The oil leak advisory from 2023 also points to potential long-term engine or drivetrain wear, warranting a thorough inspection of seals and fluid levels. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous physical inspection and address the outstanding advisories with immediate attention. First, verify the front brake pads and discs for even wear and listen for unusual braking noises, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate pad-to-disc contact or warping. Check the offside front tyres for uneven wear patterns, particularly edge wear, which may signal alignment or suspension issues. Inspect the near-side rear suspension arm for further corrosion or structural compromise, and test the vehicle’s handling for clunking noises or excessive play in the rear suspension, which could reveal arm or bush wear. The oil leak should be investigated by checking under the vehicle for fluid pooling and confirming the source—likely a seal or gasket failure—before proceeding with a top-up or replacement. For a deeper diagnostic, the buyer should also assess the exhaust system for corrosion, which may have progressed despite the advisory, and ensure the brake pipes are free of grease or corrosion that could impede fluid flow. The position lamp failures suggest a wiring or bulb issue that should be resolved to avoid future MOT failures, so a check of the electrical system for continuity and bulb functionality is essential. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a comprehensive fluid check is recommended, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these can degrade over time even without significant mileage. Additionally, the tyre sidewall should be inspected for cracks or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity, particularly if the tyres have been stored for extended periods. Finally, a 12V battery health test is advisable, as standing vehicles can suffer from discharge or corrosion, especially in older models. If the battery is weak, it may fail to provide adequate power for essential systems, including the MOT test’s electrical checks.