2005 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · NJ05 OHS

Chronic corrosion and recurring braking system failures define the mechanical history of this vehicle. While it passed its last MOT on 2024-06-06, the record shows a persistent trend of structural degradation, specifically involving the rear sub-frame and suspension mountings. The history is marked by several failures involving critical safety components, including dangerous brake pad wear and heavily corroded brake pipes, with the most recent test leaving several advisories regarding the rear chassis integrity. With 122,291 miles recorded over 21 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 5,823 miles per year. This low annual accumulation is often associated with vehicles that have spent significant time stationary or have been used for short journeys, which can correlate with the accelerated corrosion seen in the brake pipes and sub-frame. The low mileage does not mitigate the recorded wear in the suspension and braking systems, which appear to have been impacted more by age and environment than by distance travelled. A physical inspection should focus heavily on the rear of the vehicle, specifically the rear sub-frame and the upper suspension component mountings, which have been flagged for corrosion across multiple years. Potential buyers should check for any signs of structural flaking or deep pitting in these areas. On a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces, which would indicate that the worn offside front upper anti-roll bar pin or bush has progressed beyond the advisory stage. The braking system requires scrutiny given the history of dangerous pad wear, worn discs, and corroded pipes. During the test drive, feel for any pedal judder or a lack of firmness, and ensure the parking brake holds the vehicle securely without causing the car to pull or swerve. Additionally, listen for any loud drones or hissing from the underside, as the vehicle has a history of major exhaust leaks and corroded joints.