2004 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · LC54 HTJ

The vehicle shows a history of recurring mechanical and structural issues, particularly concerning the exhaust system, brakes, and suspension. In the most recent test in January 2026 at 132,870 miles, the car passed but revealed a non-excessive rocker cover leak and a deteriorated nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover. Minor wear on the rear shock absorber bushes was also noted, typical for a vehicle of this age. This follows a pass in December 2024 where a minor exhaust leak was identified in the central exhaust, suggesting the exhaust system is prone to ongoing degradation. The mileage profile is consistent with a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 6,000 miles per year. While the low annual mileage might suggest light use, the MOT record indicates periods of reactive maintenance rather than preventative care. In December 2023, at 129,730 miles, the vehicle failed with multiple serious faults, including an inoperative engine management fault light, a major exhaust leak, and a binding offside front brake. The presence of corroded rear brake pipes and corroded front coil springs during that period indicates that environmental corrosion is affecting the underbody components. Maintenance patterns suggest a struggle with consumable items and peripheral health. Between 2021 and 2023, the vehicle repeatedly failed or was advised for tyres worn to the legal limit or below it. The failure due to a missing offside rear brake backplate in late 2023 further highlights a trend of surface corrosion and wear on the braking assembly. A prospective buyer should carefully inspect the integrity of the exhaust system and the condition of the brake pipework, as these areas have appeared as recurring points of failure throughout the last five years of recorded history.