2018 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Diesel · FN18 HPC

The most recent MOT inspection on 24 July 2026 shows a pass following a failure related to the nearside headlamp assembly, which failed on both dipped and main beam functions and could not have its aim tested. This failure suggests a potential bulb failure, a faulty headlight unit, or an electrical issue within the nearside wiring loom or switchgear. While the vehicle has maintained a generally consistent pass record since 2021, the recent failure and the recurrence of tyre-related advisories indicate a maintenance trend that is slightly reactive rather than strictly preventative. The transition from a clean pass in 2025 to a failure in 2026 suggests that while the vehicle is mechanically sound enough to pass, certain peripheral components are beginning to reach the end of their service life. With 91,501 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Toyota RAV4 has covered an average of roughly 11,438 miles per year. This is considered typical, moderate usage for a vehicle of this age and type, suggesting it has not been subjected to excessive motorway cruising nor has it suffered from the detrimental effects of prolonged periods of standing. This mileage level is high enough to have necessitated significant consumable replacements, such as brake pads, discs, and tyres, but it is generally below the threshold where major drivetrain or structural component failures become statistically inevitable. The steady accumulation of mileage implies a regular usage pattern which is generally positive for maintaining battery charge and preventing excessive brake binding or fluid degradation. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the recurring advisory regarding tyre condition. The 2026 advisory for a nearside front tyre showing cracking or perishing, coupled with a similar advisory for an offside rear tyre in 2023, indicates that the rubber is likely ageing and losing its structural integrity due to UV exposure or ozone degradation. During a test drive, you should inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres for any signs of fine cracking or bulging and check for uneven tread wear, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or incorrect wheel alignment. Furthermore, the 2023 advisories regarding worn, pitted, or scored brake pads and discs suggest that the braking system has been approaching its wear limits. You should listen for any metallic grinding noises during braking and feel for any pulsations or shuddering through the brake pedal, which would indicate warped or heavily scored discs. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, you should also conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underbody for signs of corrosion, particularly on the exhaust system and suspension mounting points. Although the recent headlamp failure appears to have been rectified, it is worth verifying that the beam pattern is correctly aligned and that there are no flickering symptoms that might suggest an intermittent electrical fault. Check the service history to ensure that fluid changes, specifically brake fluid and engine oil, have been carried out according to the manufacturer's intervals rather than just at MOT times. Finally, inspect the battery terminals for any signs of sulphation and ensure the engine starts promptly, as an eight-year-old vehicle with nearly 100,000 miles may soon require a 12V battery replacement if it has not been recently renewed.