2014 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · LF14 AAX

The most recent MOT on 3 April 2026 resulted in a failure, the principal cause being a non‑functioning main‑beam on both sides of the front headlamp. In addition the test recorded several advisories – the nearside rear tyre is close to the legal tread limit and shows edge wear, the front registration plate is deteriorating, and the front anti‑roll bar ball‑joint dust cover is severely degraded. The previous three annual tests (2023‑2025) were clean passes with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle’s condition has begun to deteriorate after a period of relative stability. At 106 067 miles the RAV4 is 12 years old, giving an average of roughly 8 800 miles per annum. This is within the normal UK usage envelope and suggests the car has not been subjected to excessive high‑speed or heavy‑load duty. The mileage does not point to accelerated wear of major power‑train components, but the relatively modest annual distance may also imply periods of prolonged standing, which can encourage corrosion of brake discs, tyre sidewall perishing and battery sulphation if the vehicle has not been regularly driven. Prospective buyers should verify that the nearside rear tyre is replaced promptly; the edge wear pattern can be a symptom of mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven tyre pressure, and a tyre close to the legal minimum will affect grip and braking distance. The front headlamp must be rectified – a faulty main‑beam not only caused the MOT failure but also reduces night‑time visibility and may mask other electrical issues such as a failing 12 V battery or corroded wiring. The anti‑roll bar ball‑joint dust cover, while only advisory, indicates that the protective barrier for the ball joint is compromised; inspect the ball joint itself for excessive play or knocking, as a worn joint can lead to handling instability and premature wear of the anti‑roll bar bushings. The registration plate’s condition should be checked for secure mounting and legibility, as a loose plate can vibrate and cause additional stress on the front bumper area. Beyond the recorded defects, a vehicle of this age benefits from a thorough age‑related inspection. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking or dry rot, especially if the car has spent long periods idle. Check the battery’s cranking voltage and electrolyte level, as a 12‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Inspect brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and verify that calipers move freely without binding. Examine fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels, colour and any signs of contamination, remembering that many manufacturers recommend fluid changes on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that the service history is complete and that any major scheduled maintenance such as timing‑belt or chain replacement, spark‑plug change and suspension component servicing has been recorded, as these items are critical to long‑term reliability.