2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · FE04 HCF

The 2004 Toyota RAV4 presents a stable and reassuring maintenance trend, with the most recent MOT conducted on 28 August 2024 at 117,334 miles returning a clean pass with zero defects recorded. This outcome follows a consistent pattern stretching back to 2021, where every successful test has been free of advisories or failures. The only blemish is a single failed test on 31 August 2023 at 115,754 miles, but the record shows no defects were noted on that occasion, suggesting the failure may have been administrative or a procedural issue rather than a mechanical fault, as the very next day the vehicle passed cleanly at the same mileage. The mileage accumulation tells a clear story of light, steady use. Across roughly 22 years, the vehicle has covered approximately 117,334 miles, averaging around 5,333 miles per year, well below the typical UK annual figure of 7,000 to 8,000 miles. The intervals between tests show incremental and consistent gains: roughly 1,580 miles between August 2022 and August 2023, and about 1,580 miles again between August 2023 and August 2024. There are no alarming gaps or sudden spikes in accumulation that would suggest long periods of disuse or recent intensive driving. The record is clean and unbroken, with no missing years. Despite the spotless MOT history, a buyer should still carry out a thorough physical inspection. A vehicle of this age, even at low mileage, is susceptible to age-related deterioration that MOT tests may not fully capture. Suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers should be checked for perishing and corrosion, as rubber and metal components degrade over time regardless of mileage. The underside and structural mounting points deserve close attention for surface corrosion or any signs of rust-through, particularly around the sills, subframes, and brake line routes. Brake discs, pads, and calipers should be inspected for uneven wear or binding, and tyre condition including sidewall cracking must be verified even if tread depth remains legal. The exhaust system and catalytic converter warrant a check for corrosion and emissions performance, as short-trip use at low annual mileage can accelerate internal moisture buildup and premature deterioration. Engine oil condition and coolant quality should be assessed, since infrequent use can lead to moisture contamination and reduced fluid effectiveness. Overall, the MOT record indicates a vehicle that has been well maintained and lightly used, but age remains the dominant risk factor, and a pre-purchase inspection focused on structural integrity and aged rubber and metal components would be a prudent step.