2021 Toyota RAV4 Black Edition HEV CVT 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · D7 ASP

The latest MOT test for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid recorded a passing outcome on 2026-03-13, with no critical or major defects noted. However, the presence of recurring advisories regarding front tyre wear—specifically that both the near-side and offside front tyres have been marked as worn close to the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear—indicates a pattern that warrants careful attention. While the vehicle has passed each MOT since 2024, the consistent repetition of this advisory suggests either suboptimal driving habits, such as aggressive cornering or uneven load distribution, or a design-related tendency for front tyres to wear prematurely in certain conditions. This trend, if unaddressed, could lead to further tyre replacement costs and potential compromise to handling dynamics, particularly at higher speeds or during sharp turns. The absence of any failures or advisories on previous tests prior to 2025 suggests that the wear may have developed gradually over time rather than being a sudden issue, but the buyer should treat it as a priority to investigate further. The recorded mileage of 33,077 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,615 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a hybrid model of this age. Such mileage typically reflects a balance between regular driving and periods of inactivity, though the exact usage pattern cannot be determined from the data alone. Lower mileage could imply reduced wear on consumables like fluids, brakes, and suspension components, while higher mileage might accelerate wear on drivetrain elements, suspension bushes, and tyre compounds. The absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation in recent years suggests that the vehicle has been driven consistently, though the front tyre advisories may hint at either a tendency toward underinflation or uneven load distribution, which could exacerbate wear patterns. For a hybrid model, the CVT transmission and hybrid battery system are less prone to wear from mileage alone, but the overall maintenance history should still be scrutinised for any signs of neglect, particularly in areas like fluid degradation or electrical system health. Given the recurring front tyre advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the tread depth, sidewall condition, and any signs of uneven wear patterns. On a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the front tyres, such as excessive squealing or grinding, which could indicate misalignment, incorrect inflation, or internal tyre damage. Visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking, perishing, or dry rot, which can become critical over time, especially in a vehicle of this age. Additionally, verify that the front tyres are properly aligned and that the vehicle’s suspension geometry is correct, as misalignment can accelerate edge wear. If the tyre wear pattern remains consistent with the advisories, consider replacing the front tyres sooner rather than later to prevent further degradation and ensure safe handling. The buyer should also check the vehicle’s service history for any records of tyre rotation or alignment services, as these can mitigate uneven wear. For the broader roadworthiness assessment, the buyer should prioritise a visual and functional inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems, given the potential implications of the front tyre wear. Inspect the front suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, for signs of wear, leaks, or excessive play. Listen for clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs. The brakes should be checked for signs of excessive heat discolouration on the discs, binding calipers, or uneven wear, which may suggest prolonged use or standing. Given the vehicle’s hybrid drivetrain, the battery and inverter system should also be assessed for any signs of corrosion, unusual electrical noises, or reduced performance, particularly if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. Finally, the buyer should verify the condition of the vehicle’s fluids, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time, even with moderate mileage. Check for leaks around the engine bay, transmission, and brake systems, and ensure all fluid levels are within specification. If the vehicle has been driven at a lower mileage rate, the buyer should also consider checking the tyre sidewalls for signs of age-related perishing, as this can become a safety risk even with low mileage.