2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric · CE71 YZX

This RAV4 presents an exemplary mechanical track record across its DVSA testing history, with three consecutive passes at the 2024, 2025, and 2026 anniversaries and a clean sheet of defects and advisories at every visit. The most recent test on 20 August 2026 recorded a pass with no advisories, reinforcing a stable and consistent pattern of roadworthiness rather than any emerging wear trends. For a prospective buyer, this clean MOT profile over the full three-year testing window is a strong indicator that the fundamental safety items, including braking performance, lighting, tyre condition, and emissions, have remained within specification throughout the vehicle's life to date. There is no evidence of recurring advisories relating to suspension components, brake pipe corrosion, exhaust integrity, or any other structural or mechanical concern that would suggest chronic or systemic deterioration. The recorded mileage of 59,413 miles over the five-year life of the vehicle equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 11,883 miles, which is broadly average for a mid-size SUV of this age and consistent with regular mixed-use driving. The mileage readings show steady year-on-year progression between tests without any notable gaps or sudden jumps, suggesting the vehicle has been in continuous service rather than left standing for extended periods or subjected to unusually intensive use. This kind of usage profile is mechanically favourable, allowing consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and drivetrain fluids to be replaced at sensible service intervals rather than suffering the degradation associated with either long-term storage or excessive high-mileage wear. Given the absence of any recorded advisories on the MOT history, a pre-purchase evaluation should concentrate on confirming that the items which commonly deteriorate with mileage on a RAV4 of this generation are still in good working order. Pay particular attention to the rear brake discs and pads, as these are frequently the first items to require attention on hybrid and non-hybrid RAV4s of similar age and mileage. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the suspension, particularly over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn rear trailing arm bushes or front anti-roll bar drop links, both of which are known wear items on this chassis. Steering should feel precise with no pulling to either side under gentle braking, and the clutch or transmission should engage smoothly without judder on manual variants, or without any noticeable hesitation or shunt on the automatic. Given the strong MOT record, a thorough inspection underneath the vehicle is still worthwhile, particularly checking for any oil seepage from the engine or transmission sump, condition of the undertray fasteners, and any surface corrosion on exposed suspension arms or exhaust mounting points. Confirm that the hybrid system, where applicable, operates through its full range without warning lights, and verify that the 12V auxiliary battery is securely mounted, as replacement is a common but often overlooked service item. Finally, ensure all four tyres are of matching brand, size, and tread depth, as uneven tyre wear across an axle can point to suspension geometry issues not yet severe enough to trigger an MOT failure. Overall, this vehicle's combination of a clean three-test MOT history and steady, average mileage makes it a notably low-risk prospect, provided the standard mechanical checks are carried out.