One anonymous owner sums his RAV4 up like this “I’ve always had a larger SUV, but I downgraded to save fuel. The RAV4 is also easier to find a parking space with, and it drives like a car. It still isn’t as nice a highway cruiser as a larger SUV, though.”
Like thousands of existing owners, you’ve probably been drawn to the Toyota brand for a promise of reliable performance, moreso than low pricing. As used Toyota’s tend to go, the RAV4 commands higher-than-average resale values in its segment, though reliability looks higher-than-average, too.
It’s important to remember that maintenance is key in ensuring that reliability remains in the long term. As such, making sure the RAV4 you’re considering has been properly taken care of is strongly advised.
Starting under the hood, check the level and condition of all fluids, and note any leaks. Get down lower and check the tire tread depth, as well as the condition of the brakes, if possible. Have a good look beneath the vehicle for signs of excessive rust, too. Be sure to check the wheel-well and tailgate areas for rust, too.
Note that a mechanical inspection is advisable if you aren’t planning to purchase your used RAV4 from a Toyota dealer under a certified used car program. A used car inspection is affordable, and can be completed in about an hour. It may reveal potential issues that could cause headaches down the line-- or give your used RAV4 candidate a clean bill of health for added purchase confidence.
Be sure to note any unwelcomed clunking or popping sound as the RAV4 travels over bumps at various speeds. If any such noises are apparent, chances are the model you’re test-driving will need some suspension part replaced.
Common and worrisome problems for the last-generation RAV4 seem fairly few and far between, albeit for numerous owner complaints regarding transmission shifting issues on models with the automatic gearbox. If the transmission in your RAV4 candidate shifts harshly, clunks during gearshifts or feels strange or sporadic, chances are a reprogramming of the computer control module will fix the problem. These issues may cause a check-engine light to illuminate, too. If any of these problems are apparent on a test-drive, be sure to determine their cause before agreeing to purchase. This seemingly electronic issue looked more likely on earlier models, so shoppers can consider a 2004 or 2005 RAV4 model to be extra safe.
If you’re willing to spend some extra money for added long-term confidence in a small, reliable SUV, a healthy and well-maintained RAV4 shouldn’t disappoint.
Like thousands of existing owners, you’ve probably been drawn to the Toyota brand for a promise of reliable performance, moreso than low pricing. As used Toyota’s tend to go, the RAV4 commands higher-than-average resale values in its segment, though reliability looks higher-than-average, too.
 |
| 2002-2003 Toyota RAV4 (Photo: Toyota) |
It’s important to remember that maintenance is key in ensuring that reliability remains in the long term. As such, making sure the RAV4 you’re considering has been properly taken care of is strongly advised.
Starting under the hood, check the level and condition of all fluids, and note any leaks. Get down lower and check the tire tread depth, as well as the condition of the brakes, if possible. Have a good look beneath the vehicle for signs of excessive rust, too. Be sure to check the wheel-well and tailgate areas for rust, too.
Note that a mechanical inspection is advisable if you aren’t planning to purchase your used RAV4 from a Toyota dealer under a certified used car program. A used car inspection is affordable, and can be completed in about an hour. It may reveal potential issues that could cause headaches down the line-- or give your used RAV4 candidate a clean bill of health for added purchase confidence.
Be sure to note any unwelcomed clunking or popping sound as the RAV4 travels over bumps at various speeds. If any such noises are apparent, chances are the model you’re test-driving will need some suspension part replaced.
Common and worrisome problems for the last-generation RAV4 seem fairly few and far between, albeit for numerous owner complaints regarding transmission shifting issues on models with the automatic gearbox. If the transmission in your RAV4 candidate shifts harshly, clunks during gearshifts or feels strange or sporadic, chances are a reprogramming of the computer control module will fix the problem. These issues may cause a check-engine light to illuminate, too. If any of these problems are apparent on a test-drive, be sure to determine their cause before agreeing to purchase. This seemingly electronic issue looked more likely on earlier models, so shoppers can consider a 2004 or 2005 RAV4 model to be extra safe.
If you’re willing to spend some extra money for added long-term confidence in a small, reliable SUV, a healthy and well-maintained RAV4 shouldn’t disappoint.
Article Gallery