2021 Toyota RAV4 Dynamic Phev Auto 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · S4 LLH

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 9 September 2025, confirming it meets the minimum legal standards for roadworthiness. However, the maintenance trend shows a transition from a minor, non-mechanical advisory in 2024 to specific mechanical advisories in 2025. This indicates that while the vehicle is currently compliant, it is entering a stage of life where wear-and-tear components, specifically within the suspension and tyre assemblies, are beginning to reach the end of their optimal service life. The recorded mileage of 24,438 miles for a five-year-old vehicle represents a very low annual usage rate of approximately 4,888 miles. While this low mileage suggests minimal wear on the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, it also implies the vehicle may have been subject to longer periods of standing or short-distance commuting. Such usage patterns can lead to different mechanical concerns than high-mileage vehicles, primarily involving the degradation of components due to age and environmental exposure rather than mechanical friction. You should pay particular attention to the rear suspension during your test drive. The advisory regarding light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber is an early sign of seal failure. Listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over bumps and observe if the rear of the car feels excessively bouncy, which would indicate the damper is losing its ability to control oscillations. Furthermore, the advisory for the nearside front tyre being worn on the edge suggests a potential alignment issue. Inspect the tyre for uneven wear patterns and check the vehicle's tracking or camber settings, as this could lead to premature replacement of all four tyres if left unaddressed. Given the low mileage, it is essential to inspect the vehicle for age-related degradation. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur even if tread depth remains high. Verify that the service history includes regular oil and fluid changes based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as fluids can degrade through moisture absorption and oxidation over time. Finally, inspect the brake discs for heavy corrosion or binding calipers, which are common symptoms of vehicles that are not driven frequently enough to clear surface oxidation through regular braking.