2017 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · VA66 AYO

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 6 February 2026, following a failure for a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system and an inoperative registration plate lamp. While the most recent result is clean, the overall maintenance trend suggests a pattern of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. The history shows a recurring cycle of failures related to consumable items and minor electrical faults, which indicates that the vehicle is often only addressed when an inspection necessitates it. Although the recent pass suggests these specific issues have been rectified, the intermittent nature of the defects implies that the owner may be following a minimum-requirement maintenance philosophy rather than a preventative one. With a recorded mileage of 91,783 over approximately nine years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 10,200 miles per year. This represents typical, moderate usage for a diesel or petrol SUV of this age and suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme long-distance motorway commuting nor has it suffered from the detrimental effects of excessive long-term standing. This level of usage is generally favourable for mechanical components, as it implies regular movement which helps prevent excessive corrosion on brake discs and keeps seals lubricated. However, at this mileage, the vehicle is entering a stage where major service items and wear-and-tear components such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and timing components may require closer scrutiny. A significant area of concern for a prospective buyer is the documented history of rear axle issues. The MOT records show a recurring advisory for a binding offside rear service brake in 2023, followed by a major failure in 2023 for an excessively worn offside rear suspension arm pin or bush. Furthermore, a 2025 advisory noted that the nearside rear outer brake pads were wearing thin. During a test drive, you must pay close attention to any unusual noises from the rear of the vehicle, such as clunking or knocking when traversing uneven surfaces, which would indicate further suspension bush degradation. You should also check for any pulling to one side under braking or a scent of burning from the wheels, which could signal a binding caliper or sticking piston. Tyre management also appears to be a historical weakness for this vehicle, with multiple advisories regarding tyres being worn close to the legal limit or being damaged/out of shape. You should conduct a thorough physical inspection of all four tyres, checking not only the tread depth but also looking for uneven wear patterns which could indicate incorrect wheel alignment or worn suspension geometry. Given the age of the vehicle, even if the tread is sufficient, you should inspect the sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking due to age-related rubber degradation. Finally, ensure that the recent tyre pressure monitoring system failure has been fully resolved by checking the dashboard for any active warning lights during the drive.