2002 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Diesel · FA02 ATF

This Toyota RAV4’s most recent MOT test, conducted on 23 December 2021 at 161,525 miles, resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded. The absence of advisories or repeat failures suggests the vehicle passed its inspection without any critical mechanical or structural concerns at that point. However, the test date is now over four years out of date, placing it well beyond the standard three-year MOT validity period. Without any subsequent tests to confirm ongoing roadworthiness, there is no evidence of how the vehicle has performed since then—whether it has remained stable, deteriorated, or improved under maintenance. The lack of recent MOT history means critical components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, binding calipers, brake discs, and exhaust emissions cannot be verified as still compliant with current standards. The recorded mileage of 161,525 miles over approximately 24 years equates to an average of around 6,730 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no MOT entries prior to December 2021, meaning the full maintenance history before that point is unknown. This gap prevents any assessment of whether the vehicle experienced recurring issues or if critical components were replaced or serviced regularly. The absence of earlier tests also makes it impossible to determine if the vehicle was driven consistently or left unused for extended periods, which could significantly impact wear on items like tyres, wiper blades, or battery health. Given the sparse MOT record, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear areas that are not covered by the MOT but are critical for safety and reliability. The suspension—particularly the condition of rear wheel bearings, bushings, and coil springs—should be thoroughly checked for excessive play, corrosion, or signs of failure, as these are common issues in vehicles of this age and mileage. Brake systems, including the condition of discs, pads, and calipers, must be inspected for uneven wear, binding, or corrosion, as these can develop silently over time. Additionally, the structural integrity of the chassis and subframe should be examined for rust penetration or weld failures, especially in areas prone to moisture accumulation. Finally, the exhaust system should be assessed for leaks or excessive corrosion, as this can affect emissions and structural stability. The battery and electrical components should also be tested, as they are not routinely checked in MOT tests but can fail without warning.