2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · ML04 AAJ

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance profile characterized by recurring mechanical failures and a trend of reactive repairs. While it passed its most recent test in February 2025 at 179,125 miles, the record reveals a high frequency of defects related to steering and suspension. The presence of free play in the steering rack, weeping power steering pump, and severely deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joints indicates that the front end is experiencing significant wear. These issues appear to be addressed only when they reach inspection thresholds rather than through preventative maintenance. At 22 years old, the recorded 179,125 miles represent an average of approximately 8,142 miles per year, which is consistent with typical annual usage for this age. However, the data shows periods of relative neglect. Between July 2021 and December 2023, the vehicle covered over 22,000 miles, yet it failed a test in January 2023 due to a major exhaust leak and an inoperative engine management light. The persistent presence of the engine fault light dating back to 2015 suggests that deep-seated electronic issues may have been ignored until they became critical failures. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear chassis and structural integrity. The 2021 test noted corrosion on the rear structure, and while rigidity was not compromised at that time, age and high mileage necessitate close monitoring for advanced rot. The braking system also shows a history of neglect, with binding calipers, thin pads, and pitted discs frequently flagged across multiple years. Given the reported steering rack play and leaking pump, a professional diagnostic check of the steering geometry and suspension bushings is essential to ensure these components are not nearing total failure.