2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric · WK71 TLJ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of rubber-related component degradation. The most recent test on 15 September 2025 at 18,044 miles returned a pass but flagged advisories across all four tyres and a defective windscreen wiper blade. While the vehicle passed, the recurring nature of perishing rubber suggests that components are suffering from age-related decay rather than wear from mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a five-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,600 miles annually. Between the October 2024 test at 14,527 miles and the September 2025 test, the car covered only 3,517 miles. This low usage frequency indicates the vehicle likely sits for long periods, which directly correlates with the cracking and perishing noted in the MOT records. Low mileage often leads to dry rot in tyres and premature failure of rubber seals despite high remaining tread depth. A buyer must conduct a physical inspection of the tyres to check for sidewall cracking, as the 2024 and 2025 records specifically highlight the nearside rear tyre as showing signs of deterioration. The tester should also verify the condition of the brake discs, as low-use vehicles are prone to surface corrosion and seized calipers due to inactivity. Given the advisories, a thorough check of the wiper blades and suspension bushings is necessary to ensure the rubber has not become brittle from prolonged exposure to the elements without regular use.