2006 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · ML06 OTP

The vehicle presents a pattern of chronic suspension degradation and recent lighting failures, despite a very low recorded mileage. The latest test on 9 January 2026 resulted in a failure due to nearside position lamp malfunction and headlamp aim issues, alongside multiple advisories for front brake pad wear and suspension arm wear. This follows a similar failure in November 2024 for the same position lamp, indicating a persistent electrical or mounting issue rather than a simple bulb failure. The suspension history reveals a long-term trend of worn arm pins and bushes, with mounting repairs noted as far back as 2021, suggesting the chassis has been subjected to stress or age-related fatigue despite minimal usage. With a recorded mileage of 74,501 miles as of today, the vehicle has accumulated approximately 3,725 miles annually over its 20-year lifespan, a figure significantly lower than the average for this model age. This low annual rate suggests either very light usage or extended periods of inactivity, which can paradoxically accelerate the deterioration of specific components such as rubber bushings, tyres, and brake systems. The lack of mileage does not correlate with a pristine mechanical condition; instead, the suspension and tyre records indicate that the vehicle has experienced significant wear on these components, potentially pointing to a history of stationary storage or infrequent driving that has led to the observed degradation. Inspect the front and rear suspension linkages closely for play or excessive movement, particularly the arm pins and bushes, as these have been flagged consistently since 2021. Look for signs of corrosion or rust around the mounting points, which were previously repaired and covered in underseal. On a test drive, listen for knocking noises over bumps or when turning, and feel for any looseness in the steering or suspension. Regarding the lighting failures, verify that the nearside position lamp socket is secure and that the headlamp aim is correctly adjusted, as the repeated failure on the same side implies a potential wiring issue or a mounting problem affecting the headlamp housing alignment. Check the front brake pads immediately, as the advisory in the latest MOT notes they are wearing thin on both sides; listen for any grinding or squealing during braking. Examine the tyres for cracking or perishing, specifically the nearside front and both rears, and ensure the offside rear tyre with the nail is repaired or replaced to prevent sudden deflation. Finally, listen for a hissing sound from the exhaust system, which was noted as having a minor leak in the 2024 test, and check the exhaust mounting points for corrosion or looseness.