2012 Toyota RAV4 2.2L Diesel · GK62 ABF

The most recent MOT test conducted in October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history indicates a pattern of recurring mechanical issues that require close scrutiny. While the vehicle has passed its recent inspections, the trend shows a progression of wear and previous failures, particularly regarding the fuel system and suspension components. The 2024 failure due to a fuel system leak near the filler neck is a significant point of concern, as fuel system integrity is critical for safety. Although the vehicle has passed since that failure, the history of corrosion on fuel pipes and the recent advisory regarding tyre wear suggest that while the vehicle is being maintained to a passing standard, it is entering a phase where component degradation is becoming more frequent. With 93,252 miles recorded over approximately fourteen years, this Toyota RAV4 has averaged roughly 6,661 miles per year. This is considered low to moderate annual mileage, which typically suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy long-distance commuting. However, lower annual mileage can sometimes lead to other issues, such as component seizure or fluid degradation due to infrequent use. In this specific case, the mileage is consistent with a vehicle that has seen regular but light usage, meaning the mechanical wear on the drivetrain should be relatively low, but the chassis and suspension components may be more susceptible to age-related corrosion and rubber perishing rather than high-mileage fatigue. A prospective buyer must pay particular attention to the suspension and braking systems during a test drive. The MOT history shows a history of corroded rear coil springs and a worn offside front suspension arm bush. You should listen for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these are classic symptoms of worn bushes or compromised spring integrity. Furthermore, the history of pitted brake discs and thinning pads means you should check for any brake shudder or pulsation under heavy braking, which could indicate warped discs, or any pulling to one side, which might suggest a binding caliper. The recent advisory regarding the nearside rear tyre being worn on the edge suggests a possible alignment issue or uneven tyre wear, so inspect all four tyres for consistent tread depth and even wear patterns. Finally, given the age of the vehicle and the specific advisories recorded, a thorough physical inspection is essential. Check the underside of the vehicle for any signs of fresh weeping or residue around the fuel filler neck and fuel lines to ensure the previous major failure has been fully rectified. Examine the tyres not just for tread depth, but for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur on vehicles with lower annual mileage. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that fluids, such as brake fluid and coolant, have been changed according to calendar intervals rather than just mileage, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of distance driven. Ensure the windscreen washer system is fully functional and that the windscreen damage noted in several tests has not progressed into a crack that could fail a future inspection.