2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · FN04 XVL

A continuous run of clean passes across the most recent four annual tests at the same time of year (2022 through 2025) establishes a stable roadworthiness record for this 2004 Toyota RAV4, with no advisories, defects, or component deterioration flagged by DVSA examiners during that period. The only blemish in the available history is a single failed test on 8 September 2022 that carries no recorded defects, which strongly suggests an administrative or procedural withdrawal rather than a genuine mechanical or structural failure, particularly as the very same date also shows a pass entry. The 2025 test on 10 September confirms ongoing compliance with roadworthiness standards, and the absence of recurring advisories for suspension, braking, corrosion, exhaust integrity, or lighting points to a vehicle that has remained structurally and mechanically consistent year on year. The recorded mileage of 134,890 miles across 22 years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 6,131 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular rather than excessive use. There are no apparent gaps in annual testing, no extended periods off the road, and no evidence of rapid mileage escalation between tests, which together suggest the odometer reading has progressed at a steady and predictable rate. For a RAV4 of this vintage, particularly one equipped with the brand's reputation for durable drivetrains, this kind of consistent moderate usage typically translates to even wear across major mechanical assemblies rather than the accelerated degradation often seen in high-mileage short-trip vehicles. The combination of stable mileage progression and unflagged test history supports a baseline assumption of mechanical integrity, though it does not eliminate the possibility of wear items ageing out of MOT failure thresholds. Given the complete absence of advisories over four consecutive tests, a prospective buyer cannot rely on the MOT record to pre-identify weak points, so a physical inspection and road test become especially important. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the suspension system, as original bushes, shock absorbers, and coil springs on a 22-year-old RAV4 at this mileage are likely nearing the end of their service life even if they have not yet crossed MOT failure lines. Listen for knocking or clonking over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front lower arms and anti-roll bar bushes, and feel for any vagueness in steering response or unusual wandering that could indicate worn linkage. Braking should feel firm and progressive without pulling to either side under moderate pedal pressure, and a judder through the steering wheel or pedal under braking may suggest warped front discs, a common wear item at this mileage. The bodywork and underbody should be examined closely for corrosion, especially around the rear wheel arches, sill seams, suspension mounting points, and subframe areas, as these are typical rust hotspots on RAV4s of this generation even when not flagged by MOT examiners. Check for any signs of oil misting around the engine and transmission, weeping from power steering hoses, and the condition of the cooling system hoses and radiator, as cooling components at this age are often due for replacement regardless of MOT outcome. The exhaust system should be inspected for blowing joints, corroded mountings, and heat shield security, and the four-wheel-drive operation, if equipped, should be verified by ensuring smooth engagement without clonks or binding. Finally, confirming recent replacement of timing chain or belt, alongside records for any major service items, will help verify that the absence of advisories reflects genuine mechanical upkeep rather than simply under-testing at the threshold.