2004 Toyota RAV-4 2.0L Diesel · SW54 EFV

The most recent MOT, carried out on 19 October 2021, was passed but returned three advisories – a sub‑frame showing corrosion (though not yet structurally compromised), a slightly noisy near‑side front wheel bearing and a minor exhaust leak. Over the last six years the vehicle moved from outright failures in 2016 (corroded front brake pipe and restricted rear brake movement) and 2018 (excessively binding front service brakes) to a series of passes with only non‑fatal advisories. This pattern indicates that the major safety‑critical faults have been addressed, but a steady stream of wear‑related items such as brake disc condition, bearing noise and corrosion remain, suggesting a maintenance trend that is now stable but still requires close monitoring. At 71,092 mi recorded for a 2004 model the annual average is roughly 3,200 mi, markedly below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year. The low mileage likely reflects long periods of limited use or storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage for components that age with time. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation, fuel system varnish and corrosion of hidden chassis areas, while the limited wear may have left wear items such as brake discs and pads at the end of their service life despite the modest kilometre count. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front wheel bearings, inspecting for any roughness, play or audible growling when the wheel is rocked and while the vehicle is coasting at low speed. The sub‑frame corrosion should be examined on both sides for any signs of deep pitting or flaking that could compromise mounting points; any progression beyond surface rust would warrant a professional structural assessment. The minor exhaust leak should be located – look for soot staining or audible hissing at the manifold or pipe joints – and repaired to avoid increased emissions and potential under‑hood heat damage. Brake discs, repeatedly flagged as worn, pitted or scored, must be measured for remaining thickness and inspected for uneven wear patterns that could indicate caliper sticking; the 2018 failure for excessively binding front brakes makes a thorough check of caliper slide pins, brake hose condition and pedal feel essential. Test‑driving the car, listen for any clunk or squeal from the suspension, feel for pull or vibration under braking, and verify that the windscreen wiper now clears effectively, as the earlier wiper failure may have been remedied but could re‑appear with age. Given the vehicle’s age and low utilisation, the buyer should also assess age‑related items that are not captured by mileage. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or loss of tread depth, especially the near‑side front tyre previously noted as perishing. Check the 12 V battery voltage and load capacity, as long periods of inactivity often lead to sulphated cells. Inspect coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid for colour change or particulate contamination and consider a complete fluid change if they appear dark or milky. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) and that any corrosion‑prone areas such as under‑body panels, suspension bushes and rubber mounts have been treated or replaced where rust is evident. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of whether the RAV‑4 remains a mechanically sound purchase or if the cost of remedial work outweighs its low‑mileage appeal.