2003 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · WN03 WFW

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that has shifted from minor consumable wear to significant structural and mechanical issues. While the February 2026 test at 87,963 miles resulted in a pass, it followed a failure just five days earlier at 87,954 miles. The failure in February 2026 was serious, involving major exhaust gas leaks and excessive corrosion on offside front and rear suspension component mountings that significantly reduced structural strength. Although the most recent pass cleared the major structural failures, the vehicle continues to carry advisories for binding brakes, corroded brake pipes, and leaking shock absorbers, indicating that while the most critical safety risks were addressed, the underlying degradation is ongoing. The mileage profile shows a very low annual average of approximately 3,824 miles over its 23-year lifespan. This pattern is evident in the data, with the vehicle covering roughly 4,000 to 5,000 miles between most annual tests. However, the low usage likely contributes to the specific types of deterioration observed. The record shows consistent issues with perishing tyres and corrosion, which are common in vehicles that sit idle for long periods. The gap between the 2020 and 2022 tests suggests a period of less frequent monitoring, during which several mechanical issues, including a deteriorated CV boot and various oil leaks, surfaced. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's underside to verify the quality of the recent structural repairs. The history shows a persistent pattern of corrosion, starting with general underbody surface rust in 2023 and 2024, escalating to the severe structural mounting failures flagged in February 2026. It is essential to check that the recent repairs to the offside front and rear suspension mountings are robust and not merely cosmetic. The recurring advisory regarding the nearside rear brake pipe being corroded and covered in grease since at least 2018 suggests a long-term neglect of the braking system's external components. Mechanical attention should also be directed toward the drivetrain and suspension. The record notes persistent, non-excessive oil leaks from the transfer box dating back to 2018, and the most recent test flagged worn rear axle swivel pins and bushes. The presence of binding front brakes and misting shock absorbers indicates that the suspension and braking hardware are reaching the end of their reliable service life. Given the history of exhaust leaks and structural corrosion, a professional inspection of the chassis integrity and the exhaust system is mandatory before purchase.