2016 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric · DH65 MVC

The vehicle’s roadworthiness record demonstrates a concerning trend of repeated minor failures, primarily related to lighting and tyre conditions, rather than a stable or improving maintenance pattern. The most recent test on 2026-01-30 failed on both registration plate lamps and the deteriorated rear number plate, despite passing the same day for the primary MOT—an anomaly that suggests either a rushed or inconsistent inspection process. The sidewall cut on the near-side front tyre is a critical safety issue, indicating either a previous impact or neglect in tyre maintenance, as this fault was not addressed in the intervening year. While the 2025 test showed no defects, the 2024 failures on headlamp aim and rear tyre wear suggest a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than systematic upkeep. The mileage progression of 11,518 miles annually over ten years aligns with typical usage for this vehicle’s age, though the gaps between tests—particularly the 15-month interval between the 2024 and 2025 tests—raise questions about whether the vehicle was regularly driven or stood unused. The absence of a 2023 test record is notable, as this could imply either a private-keeper exemption or a period of non-use, which may have allowed corrosion or fluid degradation to develop undetected. The 2024 failures on rear tyres worn to the legal limit suggest either aggressive driving or delayed replacement, a trend that should prompt immediate verification of current tread depths. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the front tyres, particularly the near-side sidewall cut, to assess whether this is a recent puncture or a long-standing issue that may compromise structural integrity. The repeated rear tyre wear in 2024 indicates potential alignment or suspension issues, so the condition of rear suspension bushes, coil springs, and wheel bearings should be thoroughly checked. Additionally, the headlamp aim failure in 2024 warrants verification that the alignment has been corrected, as improperly aimed lights can obscure visibility. Given the inconsistent lighting failures, the condition of all bulbs, wiring, and connectors—especially around the registration plates—should be inspected for corrosion or loose connections. Structural rust around wheel arches, sills, and the rear number plate area should also be examined, as the deterioration noted in 2026 could signal broader corrosion risks.