2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · HJ71 ACZ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 August 2026, resulted in a failure for the nearside and off‑side front windscreen wipers, which were judged not to clear the windscreen effectively under the 3.4 (b) (ii) provision. The preceding twelve months showed a clean pass, and the 2024 test only recorded a minor advisory concerning a rear tyre nail. Consequently the maintenance trend appears to be slipping marginally, with a new functional defect emerging after a period of otherwise satisfactory results. With a recorded 23 388 miles on a 2021 model, the vehicle averages roughly 4 700 miles per annum – considerably below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles per year for a compact SUV. The low annual mileage suggests the car has spent considerable time stationary, which can be benign for mechanical wear but may accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber components, battery plates and corrosion‑prone metalwork. There is no evidence of any rapid mileage accumulation that would raise concerns about accelerated wear on the drivetrain, brakes or suspension. Prospective buyers should verify the condition of the front windscreen wipers and the associated linkage, motor and washer system. A wiper that fails to clear the glass can indicate worn rubber blades, a weak motor, or a misaligned arm; on a test drive listen for intermittent motor whine and watch for streaking or incomplete coverage, especially at higher speeds or in wet conditions. The rear tyre advisory from 2024 points to a nail that may have been removed, but the tyre should be inspected for any residual puncture repair, sidewall cracking or uneven tread wear that could signal internal damage. If the tyre shows age‑related hardening (cracking of the sidewall) or the tread depth is below 3 mm, replacement is advisable. Given the vehicle’s age and relatively low mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is prudent. Examine the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage; a battery older than four years may have lost capacity even with limited use. Check all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and confirm the dates of the last service; many manufacturers recommend fluid changes on a time basis (typically every 12‑24 months) regardless of mileage. Inspect the suspension bushes, coil springs and shock absorbers for signs of dry rotting, cracking or leaking, and listen for clunks or excessive bounce during a low‑speed drive. Finally, look for any surface rust on the wheel arches, sills and under‑body, and ensure the brake discs are free of deep rust spots or scoring, with the calipers moving freely and the pads still within service limits. Addressing these points will give a clear indication of the car’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.