2004 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · RO04 YMT

The vehicle passed its last MOT on 1 July 2024 at 135,118 miles with no recorded defects, indicating it was roadworthy at that specific point. However, this test is now two years old as of today, 15 June 2026, representing a significant gap without official verification. The maintenance trend shows a clear improvement following a serious failure on 23 June 2022 at 125,143 miles, where the tester found severely corroded and leaking brake pipes causing a catastrophic loss of both service and parking brake efficiency, alongside an exhaust leak and suspension bush damage. All subsequent tests after that failure were passes, suggesting the critical brake defects were rectified, but the historical pattern reveals a prior neglect of the braking system's structural integrity. The recorded mileage of 135,118 miles over approximately 22 years averages a sensible 6,142 miles annually. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing with roughly 5,700 to 6,000 miles accumulated between each test from 2021 to 2024, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests regular, if not enthusiastic, use. There are no notable gaps in the testing sequence itself, but the two-year lapse since the last official check is a critical interval for a vehicle of this vintage, particularly given the severe corrosion previously identified in the brake hydraulic system. A buyer must prioritise a thorough in-person inspection of the braking system, specifically all visible front-to-rear brake pipes and unions for any recurrence of corrosion or leaks, as this was a recurring and ultimately failed component. The offside front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover, which was torn in 2022, should also be examined for damage and ingress of dirt. Furthermore, the exhaust system should be checked for any leaks around the centre section support bracket, a fault noted in the 2022 failure. While the headlamp issues were resolved, a general check for lens degradation is prudent. The absence of a recent MOT means the current condition of these previously problematic components, especially the brake lines vulnerable to rust, cannot be assumed sound.