2005 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · GP05 HVL

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend in structural corrosion and deferred mechanical repairs. The most recent test in February 2026 at 121,590 miles confirms that several issues from previous years have remained unaddressed. While the car passes, the appearance of a new front exhaust leak and the persistence of play in anti-roll bar linkage ball joints suggest the vehicle is entering a phase where age-related component failure is accelerating despite the low mileage. At 21 years old with 121,590 miles, this RAV-4 shows a very low annual average of approximately 5,800 miles. The mileage accumulation is consistent, with roughly 2,200 to 2,400 miles covered annually between 2022 and 2026. However, this low usage correlates directly with significant rubber degradation. The recurring advisory for cracking and perishing tyres across all four wheels since 2022 indicates the vehicle likely sits for long periods, causing the rubber to perish before the tread does. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity and suspension mounting. The tester has flagged persistent corrosion on the front sub-frame since 2024 and ongoing corrosion on the inner suspension mounting areas and sills. While these are currently not considered excessive, the presence of rust in these critical mounting points poses a high risk of future structural failure. Additionally, the braking system requires attention, as the 2026 test noted pitted and scored rear brake discs following a history of binding calipers and corroded pipes in 2024. The suspension also shows signs of wear. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joints have been flagged for play since at least 2025, indicating they have not been replaced. The ongoing damage to the offside front windscreen, which has been noted for two years, should be checked for spreading cracks that may eventually necessitate a replacement. Given the recurring exhaust leaks and perished tyres, the vehicle appears to have been maintained to a minimum legal standard rather than a proactive schedule.