2007 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · RF07 UPP

A pattern of rear suspension corrosion and a previously repaired exhaust system define the mechanical profile of this nineteen-year-old Toyota RAV4. Across seven recorded tests spanning 2021 to 2026, the vehicle has passed every annual assessment, with two failures logged in 2021 and 2022 that were addressed before retest. The 2021 episode involved a major exhaust gas leak from the central rear section alongside an out-of-range lambda sensor reading, an issue that has not recurred in subsequent tests, suggesting a competent repair or replacement was carried out. The 2022 failure was a straightforward headlamp aim defect, again resolved prior to retest on the same day. More telling is the recurrence of advisories in 2022 flagging corrosion to both rear coil springs, a finding that warrants close inspection today as surface corrosion on coil springs typically progresses with age and exposure to road salts. The most recent test on 18 July 2026 recorded no defects at all, and aside from a minor inoperative registration plate lamp in 2025, the intervening tests have been notably clean, indicating a vehicle that has remained fundamentally roadworthy through its later life. With 143,451 miles accumulated over approximately nineteen years, the RAV4 averages around 7,550 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps between tests that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the mileage progression across recorded tests appears consistent and steady without any sudden jumps or implausibly low readings. For a high-mileage petrol or diesel SUV of this vintage, this level of annual use generally keeps the engine and drivetrain in regular working order rather than suffering the issues associated with long stationary periods. That said, at this mileage, internal wear to engine components, transmission refinements, and ancillary systems such as the cooling circuit, alternator, and starter motor is to be expected regardless of how the car has been used, and these items fall outside the scope of MOT testing. Given the recorded advisories, particular attention should be directed at the rear suspension on any inspection. Both rear coil springs were flagged as corroded in 2022, and while the vehicle has passed tests since without further advisories on these components, surface corrosion of coil springs tends to advance rather than regress. A test drive over uneven surfaces or speed humps is advisable to listen for clonking or knocking from the rear, which could indicate a fractured or weakened spring. With the vehicle unladen, inspect the rear spring pans for visible flaking, section loss, or any sign that the spring has begun to collapse, and check for uneven ride height at the rear. Equally, the condition of the rear shock absorbers, trailing arms, and any associated bushes should be examined for perishing or play, as these components work in conjunction with the springs and typically deteriorate at a similar rate. The exhaust and emissions system should also be given a focused check given the 2021 failure. With the engine cold-started, listen for any ticking, hissing, or blowing sounds from beneath the centre and rear of the vehicle that could indicate a perished mounting, cracked flexi section, or failing joint. On the road, any rough running, hesitation under acceleration, or illumination of the engine management light could suggest the lambda sensor or catalytic converter has begun to deteriorate again, particularly as emissions components harden with age and mileage. The 2023 advisory regarding perishing and cracking on the front and offside rear tyres, though minor at the time, also serves as a reminder that at nineteen years old the rubber components around this vehicle will require ongoing replacement, and a thorough inspection of all four tyres for sidewall cracking, tread depth, and age-related hardening is worthwhile before purchase.