2020 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · FD69 KAE

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 January 2026 resulted in a Pass, which is positive, and the vehicle has not failed any test across the four recorded inspections. However, the trend shows a gradual accumulation of advisories, beginning with a clean record in 2023 and 2024, then progressing to front tyre wear concerns in early 2025, and culminating in three advisories at the most recent test in 2026. This pattern suggests that consumable items are beginning to demand closer attention, particularly the tyres, but there is no evidence at present of any advisories affecting braking, suspension, steering, or structural integrity. The overall maintenance trajectory remains stable rather than deteriorating, but a buyer should be aware that the advisory count is rising as the vehicle matures. With a recorded mileage of 43,300 miles over approximately six years, the RAV4 is averaging around 7,217 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and indicates consistent, moderate usage rather than extended periods of standing or unusually heavy motorway accumulation. There is no DVSA mileage history available for the very early life of the vehicle, but the recorded readings between successive tests appear consistent and sequential, with no gaps or discrepancies that would raise concern. This average rate of accumulation generally allows components such as brake discs, pads, clutch (if applicable), and suspension parts to wear in a predictable manner, and there should be no immediate concern regarding calendar-based degradation of seals, bushes, or drivetrain components from prolonged inactivity. The advisory recorded at the 2026 test for a nearside rear tyre showing slight damage, cracking, or perishing warrants particular attention. Tyre sidewall perishing is fundamentally an age-related phenomenon that affects the rubber compound regardless of tread depth, and on a 2020 vehicle now six years old, some degree of sidewall deterioration is not unusual. A prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect all four tyres for hairline cracks, particularly in the sidewall and shoulder regions, and check the production date codes on the sidewalls to confirm whether the tyres are original or have been replaced. Although the front tyre wear advisories from the 2025 test do not necessarily indicate an ongoing geometry fault, it is worth inspecting the front tyres for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, which could suggest worn suspension bushes, drooping coil springs, or tracking misalignment. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front anti-roll bar bushes and drop links, which can wear on a vehicle of this age and mileage. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age-and-mileage-appropriate checks remain advisable. The 12-volt battery should be tested for its state of health, as batteries in vehicles of this age often approach the end of their reliable service life, and a failing battery can cause electrical anomalies or starting difficulties. Brake discs should be inspected for any lipping or corrosion, particularly given the relatively modest annual mileage which can lead to surface corrosion on discs from lighter usage, and the caliper slides should be checked for smooth operation to ensure no binding. All fluid services, including engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and the automatic transmission fluid if fitted, should be verified against the manufacturer's service schedule, as brake fluid in particular degrades over time due to moisture absorption and typically benefits from renewal regardless of mileage. Finally, given the child seat advisories recorded on both rear seats at the most recent test, the buyer should confirm whether the seats are being removed prior to any future inspection to allow a full check of the adult belt and buckle condition.