2008 Toyota RAV4 2.0L Petrol · WN08 AAK

The latest MOT test on 2026-04-15 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included several advisories that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past three years appears stable rather than deteriorating, as the vehicle has consistently passed MOTs with only minor or procedural failures, with no repeated critical failures. The presence of advisories—particularly the persistent oil leaks, grease from the offside outer differential (OSF) inner CV boot, and exhaust blow at the centre silencer—suggests ongoing but manageable mechanical issues that have not yet compromised roadworthiness. These advisories indicate areas where wear is progressing, such as CV joint seals or exhaust system integrity, but they do not currently pose an immediate risk to safety. The recorded mileage of 122,843 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 18 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,825 miles per year, which is typical for this age group. Given the vehicle’s age and the relatively modest mileage accumulation, the usage profile suggests either a lower-than-average demand for the vehicle or periods of inactivity. However, the consistent wear observed in the MOT history—particularly the CV boot and exhaust system advisories—could imply that the vehicle has been driven under conditions that accelerate component fatigue, such as frequent short trips, aggressive driving, or exposure to harsh environmental conditions. This could lead to accelerated degradation of seals, gaskets, and exhaust components over time, so a thorough inspection of these areas is essential. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the CV boots, exhaust system, and suspension components. The grease leakage from the offside OSF inner CV boot is a clear indicator that the boot is failing, which could lead to premature wear of the CV joint and potential drivetrain failure if not addressed. Look for signs of fluid contamination in the boot, which may indicate a tear or split, and listen for unusual noises during acceleration or cornering, such as a grinding or clicking sound from the drivetrain. The oil leaks noted in the MOT may stem from the same CV joint area or other engine bay components, so check for oil stains under the vehicle and inspect the engine bay for any signs of oil pooling or damaged seals. The exhaust blow at the centre silencer suggests a potential issue with the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, or exhaust pipe connections, which could lead to reduced performance, increased emissions, or even a risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Inspect the exhaust system for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or disconnections, and listen for unusual noises or a lack of exhaust backpressure, which may indicate a blockage or leak. Additionally, the windscreen wiper failures from previous MOTs highlight a recurring issue that should be rectified promptly, as ineffective wipers can compromise visibility during adverse weather conditions. While the windscreen damage itself is not a safety hazard, the wiper failures are a procedural failure that must be addressed to meet MOT standards. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity and fluid condition. Given the vehicle’s age, check the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety. Ensure the tyres meet the minimum legal tread depth and inspect for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate suspension or alignment issues. The battery should be tested for age-related degradation, as 18-year-old batteries are prone to reduced capacity and failure, particularly if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Finally, verify that all fluids—engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination. Given the vehicle’s age, time-based servicing of fluids is recommended, as they can degrade over time even with regular use.