2008 Toyota RAV4 2.2L Diesel · WF58 AEE

The vehicle is currently in a precarious state of roadworthiness with a worsening trend regarding structural and mechanical degradation. While it passed its most recent MOT on September 19, 2025, at 131,325 miles, the record reveals an accumulation of significant advisories. The tester flagged a corroded rear sub-frame, worn suspension arm bushes on both the nearside and offside front, a severely deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover, and play in the central prop shaft bearing. These issues indicate a vehicle that is beginning to suffer from systemic age-related wear. The mileage is consistent with the age of the car, averaging roughly 7,296 miles per year over 18 years. Usage has remained steady, as seen in the jump from 100,425 miles in September 2022 to 131,325 miles by September 2025. There are no erratic gaps in the history, but the frequent failures between 2019 and 2024 suggest a reactive approach to maintenance rather than a preventative one. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the chassis and underbody. Corrosion is a chronic issue for this vehicle, with the integral body structure, rear sub-frame, and all four coil springs flagged as corroded in the September 2024 test. Although the structural rigidity was not significantly reduced at that time, the persistence of these advisories since 2020 suggests the rust is progressive. The recurring failure of exhaust emissions in September 2020, September 2023, and September 2024 indicates an ongoing struggle with the engine's combustion or emissions system. Attention should also be paid to the suspension and braking systems. The history shows a pattern of worn suspension bushes and perishing tyres, notably the snapped drop link in September 2023 and the binding rear brakes noted in August 2021. Given the current advisories regarding the prop shaft and suspension arm pins, the drivetrain and steering components require a professional physical assessment to ensure they have not deteriorated beyond the point of a simple repair.