2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric · NJ21 WKX

The Toyota RAV4 has maintained a clean MOT record in its most recent test, passing without defects on 30 May 2026 at 50,840 miles. This suggests the vehicle is currently in a stable condition, with no immediate mechanical or safety concerns at the time of the latest inspection. The absence of advisories or failures in the past year indicates that any prior issues—such as brake wear or tyre condition—have either been addressed or are no longer present. However, the recurring nature of certain faults in earlier tests, particularly tyre wear and corrosion, implies that while the car may now be compliant, these were not consistently managed by previous owners. The mileage accumulation of roughly 10,168 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a five-year-old vehicle, though the data reveals some irregularities. Between February 2024 (32,667 miles) and March 2025 (41,817 miles), there was a gap of over ten months with no MOT recorded, suggesting either infrequent testing or a period of lower mileage. The subsequent test in May 2025 (43,638 miles) shows only a modest increase, reinforcing the possibility of lighter use or extended storage during that period. The most recent mileage increment, from 43,638 to 50,840 miles between May 2025 and May 2026, indicates steady but not excessive driving, which generally correlates with lower wear on critical components. A prospective buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the rear brake system, given the repeated advisories for thin brake pads on both sides in March 2025. While these were not critical at the time, they suggest either aggressive driving habits or a history of deferred maintenance. The anti-roll bar corrosion noted in May 2025, though classified as non-serious, should be checked for progression—particularly around the front suspension mounts, where rust could compromise structural integrity over time. Tyre condition remains a concern, as the vehicle failed twice on tread depth and edge wear (front tyres in February 2024 and the nearside rear in May 2025), indicating either inconsistent rotation or alignment issues. Verifying the current tread depth and evenness, as well as the overall condition of the suspension bushes and coil springs, would be prudent to confirm no underlying damage has developed. Finally, the absence of any structural defects or major mechanical failures in the MOT history is a positive indicator, but the corrosion on the anti-roll bars warrants closer examination. If the vehicle has been stored or driven in salty or humid conditions, further checks for hidden rust in wheel arches, exhaust mounts, or subframe connections would be advisable. The under-tray fitting noted in February 2024 suggests modifications were made, which could affect exhaust emissions or drainage—confirming their compliance with current regulations would be a sensible precaution.