2011 Toyota RAV4 2.2L Diesel · EX61 VPM

This 2011 Toyota RAV4 recently passed its MOT on 25 May 2026, but the history reveals a deeply concerning pattern of deterioration. Just three days before that pass, the vehicle failed for excessively corroded rear suspension mountings that significantly reduced structural strength at the inner sill. The sudden shift from a dangerous structural failure to a minor advisory on the pass is highly suspicious and strongly suggests a temporary patch repair rather than a proper, lasting fix. Corrosion is the dominant risk here. The most recent test explicitly notes the general underside of the vehicle is in a corroded condition, with rust on the rear sub-frame, suspension components, inner sills, and brake hose ferrules. Alongside the rust, there is a persistent pattern of suspension wear. The front lower suspension arm bushes have been flagged as worn for three consecutive years, and steering rack play has been a recurring issue. Tyres are also cracking and perishing, indicating age-related degradation rather than just high-mileage wear. The vehicle's condition trend is clearly worsening. While 2024 and early 2025 tests highlighted typical wear like steering play and exhaust mounts, the 2025 failure brought severe brake binding, a fractured coil spring, and a split CV boot.