2005 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Diesel · KB05 FXL

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding brake system-related corrosion. While the most recent MOT test in October 2022 at 159,226 miles resulted in a pass, the tester identified corroded brake pipes on both sides covered in grease. This follows a failure in October 2021 where the nearside brake pipe was flagged for the same defect. The persistence of corrosion across multiple tests suggests that previous repairs were superficial rather than comprehensive replacements of the affected hydraulic lines. At 159,226 miles, this 21-year-old Toyota has averaged approximately 7,600 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage patterns for its age. The data shows steady annual mileage, with roughly 5,000 miles driven between the 2021 and 2022 tests. However, the low annual mileage does not protect the vehicle from age-related degradation, as evidenced by the recurring failures of the brake lines which often suffer from prolonged exposure to road salts over time regardless of the distance travelled. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the entire braking system to determine the extent of the rust on the rear pipes. The previous 2021 failure for excessively worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joints indicates that the front suspension is reaching the end of its service life requiring a check of all bushings and joints for play. Furthermore, the 2019 advisory regarding the supplementary restraint system warning lamp failing to illuminate is a critical safety concern that should be verified with a diagnostic tool to ensure the airbag deployment system is functional.