2004 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Petrol · SD54 NSV

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 September 2025 with no recorded defects. Reviewing the history since 2023, the overall maintenance trend appears stable, as the vehicle consistently achieves a pass without any listed advisories. While there are recorded failures in July 2024 and July 2025, the absence of detailed defect data suggests these were minor issues rectified promptly, and the subsequent clean passes indicate a vehicle that is being maintained to a satisfactory roadworthy standard. At approximately 22 years old with 95,949 miles, this RAV-4 has been used sparingly, averaging roughly 4,361 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this vintage. While low mileage generally suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often indicates periods of prolonged standing. Such usage patterns can be problematic, as rubber components may perish and fluids can degrade due to time rather than distance, potentially masking issues that only manifest once the vehicle returns to regular, daily use. Given the clean MOT record and low usage, the buyer should focus on age-related degradation rather than wear-and-tear. It is essential to inspect the tyre sidewalls for fine cracking or perishing, as tyres often expire chronologically before the tread is depleted. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting and ensure the calipers are not binding, which is a common occurrence in vehicles that spend long periods stationary. During a test drive, listen for suspension clunks or knocks that could indicate dried-out suspension bushes or seized components. Furthermore, verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and other critical fluids have been changed based on a calendar interval rather than solely on mileage. Old oil can accumulate sludge and lose its lubricating properties, while aged coolant can become acidic, compromising the radiator and engine seals. Check the health of the 12V battery, as low-use vehicles often suffer from deep discharge cycles that shorten battery life. Finally, perform a thorough inspection of the underbody for signs of structural corrosion, particularly around the chassis rails and suspension mounting points, which can develop regardless of mileage if the vehicle was stored in a damp environment.