2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · NG04 JYL

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding structural corrosion and component wear. While the most recent test in April 2025 at 93,944 miles resulted in a pass, it highlighted recurring issues such as a rear exhaust leak and a leaking nearside front shock absorber. The failure in April 2024 was particularly significant due to structural defects in the sills and seat belt anchorages, indicating that the vehicle is reaching a stage where environmental degradation outweighs its low mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,270 miles per year. Between April 2022 and April 2025, the car covered 8,217 miles, suggesting a consistent low-use pattern or long periods of being stationary. However, this low mileage often correlates with the accelerated degradation of rubber components and metalwork, as evidenced by the perishing of the tyres noted in 2024 and the pervasive corrosion across the coil springs and sub-frame recorded in the last three annual tests. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front sub-frame and sills, as the tester previously flagged corrosion that compromised the structural integrity of seat belt mounting points. The recurring mention of corrosion on all four coil springs and the fuel tank suggests the vehicle has operated in an environment prone to salt accumulation. Immediate attention should also be paid to the front suspension, as the misting on the nearside shock absorber indicates a seal failure that will soon require replacement, and the offside front tyre is nearing the legal limit.