2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · LW04 DPE

The Toyota RAV4 presents a stable roadworthiness record over the past three years, with the most recent MOT on 29 July 2025 at 108,466 miles passing without defects—a consistent outcome mirrored in the 2023 and 2022 tests at 102,074 and 99,865 miles respectively. The sole anomaly is a failed test on 3 July 2024 at 105,431 miles , yet the absence of recorded defects suggests this was likely administrative rather than mechanical. The clean history indicates either meticulous maintenance or benign neglect of non-critical wear items, though the lack of advisories raises questions about whether minor issues were overlooked. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, this level of MOT compliance is unusually pristine, warranting closer scrutiny of components not covered by the test. The mileage accumulation is exceptionally low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging just 4,930 miles per year —well below the UK’s average for its class. Between July 2022 and July 2025 , the odometer progressed by 8,601 miles , a pace that implies either infrequent use, prolonged storage periods, or a combination of both. The three-day gap between a fail and a pass in July 2024 (105,431 to 105,436 miles) is particularly striking, suggesting the vehicle may have been driven minimally during that window. Such low mileage reduces wear on suspension bushes, brake pads, and drivetrain seals, but it also means fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and differential oil may have degraded over time without regular renewal. Given the absence of advisories or defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components , including coil springs, anti-roll bars, and bushings, as these are not routinely tested but can degrade even with low mileage. The rear brakes should be checked for binding or uneven wear, as the 2024 fail—though undocumented—could hint at a near-miss issue. Structural corrosion is another risk; the underbody, wheel arches, and sills should be examined for surface rust or weakened sections, particularly in regions prone to salt or moisture. Finally, fluid levels and condition —brake fluid, power steering, and engine oil—should be verified, as stagnation can lead to contamination or seal failure. The clean MOT history is encouraging, but this vehicle’s age and low usage pattern demand hands-on verification of components beyond the tester’s scope.