2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · VA04 AND

This Toyota Rav4 has maintained an exemplary MOT record over the past three years, with consecutive passes at each annual test—most recently in August 2025 at 115,169 miles—showing no defects or advisories. The stability of these results suggests the vehicle has been well cared for within the legal framework, with no signs of deteriorating mechanical or structural issues. The absence of even minor advisories in the latest tests implies that routine maintenance, such as fluid top-ups, brake inspections, and tyre checks, has been consistently addressed. However, the lack of recorded mileage between tests (e.g., 14,669 miles added in the year to August 2025) raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven regularly or stored for extended periods, which could accelerate hidden wear in components like seals, suspension bushes, or battery health. The Rav4’s mileage of 115,169 over 22 years—averaging just 5,235 miles annually—is unusually low for its age, particularly given its four-wheel-drive capability and likely off-road suitability. The gaps between tests (e.g., 22,010 miles between July 2022 and August 2024) suggest either infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can lead to issues such as seized bearings, degraded rubber components, or corrosion in less-accessible areas. While low mileage typically reduces wear on consumables like brakes and tyres, it also means critical systems may not have been exercised regularly, potentially masking latent problems until they become acute. The clean MOT history does not reveal any forced repairs or neglect, but the buyer should verify if the vehicle has been driven consistently or left dormant for long stretches. Given the sparse but flawless MOT record, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of components that are prone to degradation under light use or storage. Key areas include the suspension—particularly the condition of coil springs, anti-roll bars, and rubber bushes—for signs of drying, cracking, or corrosion, as these can fail without high mileage stress. The brakes should be checked for binding calipers, uneven wear on discs, or seized pistons, especially if the vehicle has been stood for months at a time. Structural integrity is another concern; inspect the undercarriage for corrosion in high-moisture areas (e.g., wheel arches, sills) and the condition of the exhaust system, which can degrade even with minimal driving. While the MOT history is reassuring, the low mileage pattern means some wear may not yet be visible, and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised.