2007 Toyota RAV4 2.2L Diesel · RO57 VSP

The most recent DVSA test on 7 October 2025 resulted in a PASS, but the advisory and minor defect items recorded alongside it indicate that this vehicle should not be considered to have a clean bill of health. The lower anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers are noted as severely deteriorated on both sides, having escalated from a minor item in the previous test to a more serious state, while advisories remain in place for thinning front brake pads, light oil misting from the nearside front shock absorber, play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint, and worn trailing arm pins or bushes at the rear on both sides. The earlier test on 26 September 2025 actually FAILED on major defects for the same lower arm rear bushes and ball joint dust covers, suggesting that this vehicle was only returned to the road following relatively recent suspension repair work. Across the broader history from 2020 onwards, there is a clear pattern of recurring advisories relating to the front lower suspension arm rear bushes perishing and splitting, the nearside front steering arm exhibiting slight play, and front brake pad wear, which collectively points to a chassis and steering assembly that is gradually wearing out at the higher mileage end of its life. With a recorded mileage of 165,012 miles over approximately 19 years, this RAV4 has averaged around 8,685 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and indicates consistent use rather than long periods of standing. There is no significant mileage gap evident in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged inactivity, which is positive from the perspective of avoiding standing-related corrosion issues, though the high cumulative mileage does mean that major mechanical components such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain will have accrued substantial wear. For a prospective buyer, this level of mileage on a 2007 Toyota means that age-related degradation of rubber and plastic components, alongside wear on suspension, braking, and steering parts, should be expected and factored into any valuation or negotiation. Given the recurring advisories around the front lower suspension arm rear bushes and steering components, a thorough physical inspection is essential before purchase. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension, particularly over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or when turning into driveways, as these would indicate that the perished bushes previously noted have now worn to the point of excessive play. The steering should be checked for vagueness, uneven self-centring, or a knocking sensation through the rack, which would corroborate the advisory regarding play in the steering rack inner joint. Uneven or feathered tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, would also be a strong indicator that the worn trailing arm bushes and front suspension components are no longer holding the geometry within tolerance. Front brake feel should be tested for any shudder under firm application, suggesting warped discs, and the pads should be physically inspected as the advisory items have been recurring for several years and replacement is now overdue. Beyond the items flagged on the MOT record, the age and mileage of this vehicle warrant a broader programme of age-related checks that may not be visible on a test but are nonetheless important. The nearside front shock absorber has been noted with light oil misting on successive tests, and any further seepage, together with any visible staining on the body or corrosion on the damper piston rod, should be examined, as would testing for uneven damping by pushing down firmly on each front corner and checking for a controlled single rebound. All tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, which is common on a 2007 vehicle regardless of tread depth, and the 12V battery should be load-tested as a 19-year-old unit is well beyond typical service life. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable should be assumed to require replacement on a calendar basis, and the underside of the vehicle should be inspected for corrosion, exhaust integrity, and any oil or fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, or steering rack. Finally, the service book should be examined to confirm regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, and any history of cambelt and water pump replacement verified, as these are critical age-based maintenance items on a high-mileage Toyota of this generation.