2017 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · FD66 NGN

Recurring suspension component wear constitutes the primary mechanical trend for this vehicle, specifically regarding the offside front suspension arm pin or bush. This issue has transitioned from a major failure in December 2022, where both nearside and offside rear suspension arm pins or bushes were recorded as excessively worn, to a persistent advisory on the offside front component in both the 2024-12-16 and 2025-11-25 tests. While the vehicle passed its most recent inspection on 25 November 2025, the continuity of this advisory indicates that the wear in the front suspension linkage has not been rectified. The vehicle has covered 117,266 miles over its nine-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 13,030 miles. This usage pattern is higher than the UK average for a vehicle of this age, which typically places increased mechanical demand on consumable components. Such mileage levels correlate with the recorded history of frequent advisories concerning tyre tread depth and brake disc/pad wear, as the higher frequency of road use accelerates the degradation of these friction and contact surfaces. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension during a test drive to evaluate the extent of the reported bush wear. Listen for knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when traversing uneven road surfaces or navigating speed bumps, and check for any wandering or pulling in the steering when driving at moderate speeds. The history of worn tyres and pitted or scored brake discs suggests that the braking system and tyre life cycles are frequently reaching their limits; therefore, the physical condition of the current brake pads, discs, and the remaining tread depth across all four tyres should be inspected closely to determine how soon replacement will be required. The previous failures and advisories regarding windscreen wipers and brake component thickness highlight a pattern where wear items are often identified near the end of their serviceable life. When inspecting the vehicle, verify that the windscreen wipers provide a clear, streak-free sweep and that the brake pedal feel is firm without any pulsation or judder, which could indicate uneven disc wear or binding calipers. Given the high mileage and the specific history of suspension bush degradation, a thorough assessment of the front-end geometry and the integrity of the various suspension linkages is essential.