2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · WJ54 BUF

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 23 October 2024 resulted in a pass, though the examiner recorded five advisories concerning front tyre perishing, brake hose ferrule corrosion on the offside front, and surface corrosion on both front suspension arms. The earlier record shows a similar pattern of pass with advisories on 31 October 2023, preceded by a fail on the same date due to an obviously incorrect headlamp beam image, which is a rectification item rather than a structural concern. Taken together, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable with no escalating major defects, but the consistent return of advisories relating to tyre condition, brake hose ferrules, and suspension arm corrosion across multiple consecutive tests indicates progressive age-related deterioration in these areas that should be monitored closely. The recorded mileage of 92,248 miles over approximately 22 years equates to an average annual usage of around 4,193 miles, which is low for the vehicle's age and suggests either genuinely light use or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage tends to be kinder to major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch and gearbox, but it commonly brings calendar-based deterioration in items that degrade with time rather than use. Rubber components, brake fluid, coolant, 12V battery condition, brake disc corrosion, and potential for seized or binding brake calipers from inactivity are all typical concerns. The advisories recorded on tyres and brake hoses over consecutive tests are entirely consistent with this low-use, time-affected profile rather than wear from high mileage. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories on front tyres showing perishing or cracking warrant close physical inspection of the sidewalls and tread for ozone-related rubber degradation, as tyres older than around six years can fail unexpectedly despite retaining legal tread depth; check the DOT date code on the sidewall and budget for a full set if any are over seven years old. The brake hose ferrule corrosion advisories on both front hoses, repeated since at least 2022, point to the crimped metal ends of the flexible hoses beginning to oxidise; while currently classified as slight, these should be inspected for any signs of cracking or fluid weeping under load, and replacement of the flexible hoses is a sensible precaution on a vehicle of this age. The suspension arm corrosion advisories, also recurring, suggest surface oxidation of the front lower arms which has been judged not seriously weakened, but a thorough check underneath for any deeper structural corrosion, particularly around mounting points and the rear sub-frame previously flagged in 2022, is strongly recommended. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clunks or knocking over uneven road surfaces, which could indicate worn bushes or top mounts; feel for pulling under braking, which might suggest a binding caliper or warped front disc from standing; and observe the headlamp beam pattern and alignment carefully, given the previous failure on that specific item. Inspect the brake discs for visible lipping or severe surface rust on the outer edges, which is common on lightly used vehicles, and check that the handbrake holds effectively on an incline. Beyond the recorded defects, verify the 12V battery state of charge, confirm that brake fluid and coolant have been renewed within their recommended service intervals, look for any oil leaks from the engine and transmission, and ensure the service book contains evidence of regular timing belt and water pump replacement, as on a 2004 Toyota RAV4 these are critical age-related items. A pre-purchase inspection by a competent mechanic with the vehicle raised on a ramp would be highly advisable to confirm the structural integrity of the sub-frame and suspension components before committing to purchase.