2007 Toyota RAV4 2.2L Diesel · DN07 XRW

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend in mechanical and structural degradation. While the most recent test in February 2026 at 151,969 miles resulted in a pass, it followed an immediate failure due to a major exhaust leak. The emergence of new advisories regarding the steering rack inner joints and suspension arm bushes indicates that the front-end geometry is now failing, suggesting that the owner is only addressing faults once they trigger a failure rather than performing preventative maintenance. The mileage pattern is remarkably consistent for a 19-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 8,000 miles per year. There is a significant gap in data between February 2024 at 145,496 miles and March 2025 at 151,834 miles, representing only about 6,300 miles of travel over thirteen months. This low annual usage explains the presence of corrosion, as infrequent use often leads to accelerated aging of rubber components and metal surfaces, contributing to the issues noted in the record. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity and undercarriage. The record consistently flags structural corrosion since 2024, which has progressed in the latest test to include a corroded rear sub-frame. This is a critical area for a RAV4 of this age, as rust on the sub-frame can eventually compromise safety. Additionally, the noted play in the steering rack inner joints and worn suspension bushes require immediate attention, as these faults will affect handling precision and cause uneven tyre wear. The offside rear brake disc is pitted and scored, which likely requires replacement to ensure effective braking. Given the transition from a minor exhaust leak in 2025 to a major leak in early 2026, the entire exhaust system should be inspected for thinning and mounting failure. The vehicle shows a clear pattern of reactive repairs and is nearing the end of its economic life as structural components continue to degrade.