2003 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · GP03 XEH

The 2003 Toyota RAV-4 presents a stable and reassuring maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass on 8 October 2025 at 90,351 miles with zero defects recorded. The preceding annual tests on 7 October 2024 at 89,164 miles and 6 October 2023 at 87,941 miles also passed without advisories or failures, indicating consistent upkeep across multiple years. The only anomaly is a failed test on 6 October 2023 at 87,939 miles, logged just two miles before a pass on the same day, likely a retest following a minor rectification. No recurring mechanical or structural faults appear in the record, suggesting the vehicle has been maintained to a competent standard. The mileage pattern reinforces this picture of careful, low-intensity use. Over roughly 23 years, the odometer has advanced just 3,872 miles between October 2022 and October 2025, averaging around 1,290 miles per year in the most recent period. Earlier intervals show similarly modest accumulation, with 1,463 miles added between October 2023 and October 2024 and 1,223 miles between October 2022 and October 2023. Such low annual mileage typically limits wear on consumables like brake discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, though prolonged periods of inactivity can introduce its own risks, including deteriorated rubber components and localised corrosion. Despite the clean MOT record, a buyer should still inspect the underbody and suspension components in person. Low-mileage vehicles that stand for extended periods can develop seized brake calipers, perished suspension bushes, and surface corrosion on subframes or mounting points, none of which may trigger an MOT advisory until advanced. The tyres deserve close attention; original or aged rubber may show cracking even with ample tread depth, and uneven wear could hint at neglected alignment or suspension geometry. The exhaust system and catalytic converter should be examined for corrosion, particularly if the vehicle has been used primarily for short, low-temperature journeys. A test drive over varied road surfaces will reveal any latent issues the MOT has not yet exposed. Listen for clunks from the front or rear suspension, feel for binding or uneven braking, and monitor exhaust emissions under load. The absence of recorded defects is encouraging, but it does not substitute for a thorough mechanical inspection by a qualified technician, especially given the vehicle's age.