2016 Toyota RAV4 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · WV66 MWW

This RAV4 presents a broadly clean roadworthiness profile across its recorded MOT history, with four consecutive passes since 2023 and the most recent test on 23 June 2026 concluding with no defects recorded. The only failure occurred on 7 September 2022, triggered by an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit and a front wiper set failing to clear the screen effectively. The tyre issue was also captured as an advisory on the same date, while a separate advisory recorded in August 2020 noted corrosion and pitting on the front brake discs. Importantly, none of these items have reappeared in subsequent tests, and there are no advisories relating to corrosion, suspension components, exhaust integrity, or drivetrain oil leaks. The narrative is therefore one of a vehicle that has consistently met the minimum statutory standards at every annual check, with only minor and isolated wear-related observations. Against a ten-year span, the recorded mileage of 50,354 miles equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 5,000 miles, which is below typical for a car of this age and type. This lower-than-average figure suggests either sustained lighter use or extended periods where it remained stationary. From a mechanical standpoint, such usage tends to reduce wear on high-cycle components like the clutch, engine internals, and friction materials, but it can accelerate degradation of items that suffer from inactivity. Seals, gaskets, and brake hydraulic components are more prone to drying or seizing when a vehicle sees only modest use, and the 2020 advisory regarding front brake disc corrosion is consistent with this pattern of surface deterioration rather than friction wear. There are no extended gaps between tests that would indicate a long-term off-road period, with annual MOTs consistently recorded since 2020. For a prospective buyer, the key areas to focus on during inspection align with the components previously flagged and the known risks of low-mileage vehicles. On the front brake discs, listen for any grinding or vibration under braking and feel for judder through the pedal, as the pitting noted in 2020 may have progressed; the discs should also be inspected for lip formation and excessive run-out. The wiper linkage and motor mechanism should be checked for smooth operation across the full sweep, and the front offside tyre shoulder examined for uneven wear which could indicate suspension geometry issues. Given the low annual mileage, particular attention should be paid to the condition of rubber components including suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and driveshaft boots, which can perish or crack without regular load cycling. During a test drive, the steering should feel precise without pulling to either side, particularly over uneven surfaces where worn bushes would manifest as vague response or knocking. The transmission, whether manual or automatic on this RAV4 variant, should engage smoothly in all gears without hesitation or clonks, and the four-wheel-drive system if equipped should be checked for binding or undue noise. Under the bonnet, look for any signs of oil misting or seepage around the cam cover and sump gasket, as low usage combined with age can lead to dried seals. Finally, verify that all dashboard warning systems illuminate correctly at ignition and extinguish promptly, and confirm that the service history corroborates the recorded mileage, as low-mileage vehicles without regular oil changes can suffer internal engine corrosion even when external condition appears sound.