2009 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · FN09 SYV

A clean and unblemished MOT record defines this 2009 Toyota RAV4, with the most recent test on 2 April 2026 returning a pass and no advisories or defects recorded by the examiner. Across the documented testing history, the vehicle has consistently demonstrated roadworthiness, passing on 2 April 2026, 4 April 2025, and 15 March 2024 without a single advisory note. The two recorded failures on 31 March 2025 and 15 March 2024 were followed immediately by retests that passed cleanly with no defects logged, suggesting these were likely minor or administrative rectifications rather than persistent mechanical faults. This absence of recurring advisories across multiple test cycles points to a structurally sound and well-maintained example, free from the chronic rust, suspension wear, or brake component degradation that frequently appear on vehicles of this age and platform. With 92,451 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, this RAV4 has covered an annual average of around 5,438 miles, which sits well below the typical accumulation rate for a vehicle of its vintage. This lower mileage profile indicates either genuinely limited use, extended periods of standing, or a combination of both. Mechanically, such conservative usage reduces wear on major drivetrain components including the engine, transmission, and clutch, while also limiting the cumulative stress placed on suspension bushes, wheel bearings, and brake friction surfaces. However, lower annual mileage can also mask deterioration in items affected by age rather than use, particularly rubber seals, flexible coolant hoses, perished suspension bushes, and dry-rotted exhaust mountings. Any extended periods off the road may also have allowed moisture to accumulate in the brake hydraulic system or the air conditioning evaporator, though nothing in the test history indicates such issues have yet manifested as defects. For a prospective buyer, the absence of recorded advisories means a physical inspection must take precedence over historical clues, with particular attention given to the areas where a 17-year-old RAV4 typically shows its age. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or top mount bearings, and feel for any vagueness or tremor through the steering wheel that could suggest worn track rod ends or front wheel bearings. Check the brake pedal feel for excessive travel or sponginess, which can point to fatigued caliper seals or original rubber flexi hoses beginning to soften, and inspect visually for any corrosion around the rear axle mounting points and underbody seams, as Toyota SUVs of this era can develop surface oxidation in these areas even without it being flagged at test time. Given the clean MOT history and modest mileage, a thorough service history review is strongly advisable to confirm that age-sensitive items such as the cambelt or timing chain service, coolant renewal, and automatic transmission fluid change have been carried out at the correct intervals. On inspection, examine the underside of the engine and gearbox for any signs of oil seepage from the crankshaft seals or transfer box, and check that all four tyres are of matching age and tread depth, as dry-roted rubber is a common finding on low-mileage vehicles that have stood for prolonged periods. Finally, verify the operation of the four-wheel-drive system, if fitted, by ensuring it engages smoothly on loose surfaces, and listen for any whining from the rear differential on the overrun, as these drivetrain components benefit from regular use to remain in good condition.