2015 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Diesel · LP15 OPE

The most recent MOT, carried out on 22 July 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, and the three preceding annual tests (2024‑08‑01, 2023‑08‑03 and 2022‑07‑25) also returned clean passes. This uninterrupted series of fault‑free examinations indicates a stable maintenance pattern; there is no evidence of a deteriorating condition or emerging safety concerns over the last four years. At eleven years old the vehicle has accumulated 63,145 miles, which works out at roughly 5,740 miles per annum. That figure is well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age and suggests either predominantly short‑haul use or extended periods of inactivity. Low annual mileage reduces cumulative wear on the engine, transmission and drivetrain, yet it can also mask age‑related degradation of components that are more dependent on calendar time than on distance, such as rubber seals, hoses, tyre sidewalls and the battery. When inspecting a low‑mileage, eleven‑year‑old RAV4 the buyer should give particular attention to tyre condition; even with modest tread depth, sidewalls may show cracking, perishing or dry‑rot from prolonged storage, especially if the car has been parked on the same spot for months. Check the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge under load, as batteries left idle for long periods often lose capacity. All fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids – should be examined for colour change, sediment or a burnt smell, and the service history should confirm that oil and filter changes have been performed at the manufacturer‑recommended intervals despite the low mileage. Finally, examine the suspension and steering assemblies for any play or clunking when the vehicle is driven over bumps; ageing bushings and mounts can deteriorate even with few miles, leading to uneven tyre wear or handling looseness. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding, as moisture can cause corrosion on seldom‑used brake components. A visual check of the exhaust system for rust, cracks or loose mounts, and a brief test of the emissions system (particularly the catalytic converter) will round out a thorough pre‑purchase appraisal, giving confidence that the vehicle’s age‑related wear has been properly managed.