2003 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Diesel · GU53 KKY

The vehicle currently holds a clean MOT status following its most recent test on 20 October 2025 at 109,426 miles. This follows a period of significant mechanical concern in late 2024, where the car failed on 29 October 2024 due to fractured coil springs and defective headlamp lenses. The maintenance trend shows a clear improvement, as the subsequent pass on 1 November 2024 addressed the immediate failures, and the 2025 test indicates that the previously flagged issues have been resolved. The recorded mileage of 109,426 miles is notably low for a 2003 vehicle, averaging approximately 4,758 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-intensity usage, with the mileage increasing from 102,601 in October 2023 to 106,177 in November 2024, and reaching 109,426 by October 2025. This pattern suggests the vehicle has been used for short trips or infrequent journeys rather than heavy long-distance commuting. A prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection on the rear suspension and braking components. The 2024 records highlighted recurring issues with corroded coil springs and misting shock absorbers, alongside pitted brake discs. While the 2025 test shows no defects, the history of component degradation suggests that the suspension bushings and dampers may be nearing the end of their service life. The presence of a minor exhaust leak and a non-excessive prop shaft oil leak in 2024 also warrants a close look at the exhaust system and drivetrain seals to ensure these issues have been fully rectified rather than merely monitored. The history of faded headlamp lenses and minor windscreen damage indicates typical age-related wear for a vehicle of this vintage. Because the vehicle has experienced multiple failures related to lighting and exhaust corrosion, verifying the integrity of the electrical connections and the condition of the exhaust flanges is a sensible precaution. The low annual mileage may mean the vehicle has spent time stationary, which can sometimes accelerate corrosion on brake discs and suspension components despite the low mechanical wear.