2022 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · AK22 VVM

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 most recently passed its MOT on 9 March 2026 with only a minor advisory relating to a small windscreen damage item that does not obstruct the driver's view. Reviewing the broader DVSA history, the vehicle has demonstrated a generally stable maintenance trend, with the only failure occurring on 31 March 2025 for a nearside rear seat belt buckle not functioning as intended, which was evidently rectified prior to the subsequent pass on 2 April 2025. There are no advisories on record relating to corrosion, suspension components, braking system, tyres, or emissions, which suggests that consumable wear items have remained within satisfactory limits through the recorded test cycle. The absence of any recurring or escalating defects indicates that the vehicle has been maintained to a consistent standard, and the only flagged item is essentially cosmetic in nature. With 26,167 miles accumulated over approximately four years, the RAV4 is covering around 6,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a family SUV of this age and aligns with normal expectations regarding wear progression for major mechanical assemblies. The mileage progression implied between the recorded tests does not suggest any excessive use or significant gaps in operation, meaning components such as the engine, transmission, clutch (if applicable), and drivetrain are unlikely to have been subjected to either undue stress or prolonged periods of standing. This balanced usage profile is favourable, as it typically results in more even wear and reduces the likelihood of issues associated with either high-mileage fatigue or calendar-related degradation. Given the relatively young age and modest mileage, attention should nonetheless be directed towards condition-based checks rather than purely mileage-based wear. The windscreen damage flagged on two consecutive tests should be inspected to confirm it has not propagated into a crack that could contravene future MOT requirements or compromise structural integrity, and any stone chips near the driver's eyeline should be assessed. Although the MOT record shows no tyre-related advisories, the tyres should still be examined for age-related sidewall perishing or cracking, as rubber degrades with UV exposure and calendar age regardless of tread depth. A thorough inspection of the sidewalls for hairline cracks and confirmation of the DOT date code is advisable, particularly on a vehicle that may have spent considerable time parked outdoors. Further buyer diligence should include verification of routine servicing, particularly brake fluid replacement (typically required every two years irrespective of mileage due to hygroscopic fluid degradation), coolant renewal intervals, and confirmation that the 12V battery is in good health, as batteries in modern vehicles with complex electronics can fail prematurely even on low-mileage examples. Given the nearside rear seat belt buckle failure recorded in 2025, the seat belt mechanism should be physically tested to confirm smooth retraction, secure latching, and correct pretensioner operation, as a repeat issue would suggest either an incomplete repair or an underlying electrical fault within the supplementary restraint system. During a test drive, particular attention should be paid to brake feel and effectiveness, as calipers on lightly used vehicles can occasionally bind slightly from minor surface corrosion, producing uneven pad wear or a pulling sensation under braking. Additionally, the suspension should be assessed for any knocking or clonking over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn bushes or top mount bearings, and a road test at varying speeds should confirm there are no abnormal vibrations, drivetrain noises, or warning lights illuminated on the instrument cluster.