2011 Toyota RAV-4 2.2L Diesel · GY61 ABV

The vehicle exhibits a recurring pattern of suspension wear and tyre degradation rather than a sudden mechanical failure. The most recent test on 4 August 2026 recorded a pass with advisories specifically highlighting worn lower suspension arm bushes on both axles and perishing rear tyres, a condition that has been noted consistently since 2020. This history suggests progressive wear on the front suspension geometry rather than a catastrophic failure, though the accumulation of advisories over the last five years indicates a vehicle that requires immediate attention to suspension linkages and tyre condition. With a recorded mileage of 109,316 miles and an age of approximately 15 years, the annual accumulation of roughly 7,300 miles places this vehicle in a typical usage bracket for its class, indicating regular road use rather than light commuting or long periods of inactivity. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing without significant gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been in active service throughout its lifespan. This regular usage has resulted in the documented wear on consumables such as brake pads and tyres, which aligns with the mileage profile rather than indicating neglect or a specific mechanical fault unrelated to age and usage. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection of the front lower suspension arms, as the MOT history shows both the bushes and the ball joint dust covers deteriorating over successive years. During a test drive, listen for any knocking sounds over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, and check the ball joint area for any visible grease leakage or exposed metal, as the dust cover deterioration noted in 2024 suggests potential ingress of moisture or debris. Additionally, given the advisories regarding brake pad wear in 2019 and 2022, verify the thickness of the front brake pads and check for any juddering through the brake pedal, which could signify warped discs or uneven pad wear. The tyre condition requires immediate replacement, as perishing sidewalls have been a recurring advisory since 2020. Inspect the valve stems for any cracking or damage, particularly on the front wheels where they were noted as slightly damaged in 2019, as a compromised valve can lead to rapid air loss. While the vehicle has passed every MOT to date, the cumulative effect of these advisories means the car is not in a roadworthy state for immediate use without addressing the suspension bushes, shock absorber dust covers, and tyre condition.