2002 Toyota RAV-4 1.8L Petrol · CP02 FGX

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a recent shift toward reactive rather than proactive upkeep. The February 2026 test at 130,230 miles passed with a non-excessive oil leak, following a significant failure just five weeks prior at 129,441 miles. That January failure revealed a critical lack of safety and emissions compliance, including a major exhaust leak between the downpipe and the catalytic converter, failed position lamps, and a dangerous tyre failure where the offside front tyre showed exposed cords. At 24 years old, the recorded 130,230 miles represent a low annual average of approximately 5,400 miles per year. This low usage often suggests the vehicle has sat for long periods, yet the data shows a recent spike in heavy activity. Between January 2025 and January 2026, the vehicle covered over 23,000 miles in a single year. This rapid accumulation explains the sudden wear on consumables and suspension components, such as the worn anti-roll bar ball joint and the degraded tyre condition noted in the most recent tests. A buyer must personally inspect the engine bay for the extent of the oil leak flagged in February 2026 to ensure it is merely a minor gasket issue rather than a systemic seal failure. Given the history of worn front tyres on edges in 2024 and 2026, a professional wheel alignment is mandatory to prevent further premature tyre wear. Furthermore, the vehicle's age and potential periods of standing make a thorough check of the chassis for structural corrosion and suspension bush perishment, as older Toyotas often suffer from age-related degradation regardless of low mileage.