9 Toyota RAV4 Years To AVOID! (& WHY)

In today's video, we discuss the used Toyota RAV4 years you should avoid, and WHY.
➡️ You can read the full article on this video here: bit.ly/3RFFTpY
➡️ Check out more RAV4 guides here: bit.ly/3vjxFuf
If you found this video useful and would like to see more, please like the video, comment, and subscribe.
Website: motorask.com

[@Shadofx]

Toyota's worst years are most car manufactures best years.

[@cjdkat7847]

I read this as a Toyota diss at first but FR they're TANKS,, mines like a 115yo person on the brink of death who just refuses to die yet

[@toddb6576]

I live in Kenya and bought a 2007 RHD Rav4 imported from Japan and it's flawless. I think problems with most cars stern from owner neglect and bad driving habits.

[@theresas.5806]

2014 rav 4 xle is an awesome year! 214 000 miles and zero problems! I have maintained it really well and replaced anything that wears. This rav has been the best money ever spent.

[@nathanlees2135]

Wish they weren’t so ugly :/

[@MichelleHufana]

I still have my 2002 rav4 he currently is at 226,000 miles and runs very well. I did face the gear shifting issues back around 80k miles- instead of going to dealership I found out the computer box just needed to be rewired. Anyone whose transmission was damaged too late spent more. I ended up spending $300 total. Best decision I've ever made.

[@robotx8562]

Had the same issue with my 03.

[@russelsprout2155]

I'm having a gear shift issue. You say it's a computer issue? Can you share a link with me so I can read up?

[@drivingmyoldcar1974]

My girlfriend had this issue with her 2002 RAV4 some 12 years ago. Dealership was very evasive. Searched online for information, found RAV4 enthusiast forums. Learned Toyota issued a service bulletin. Many computers had code defect. Bulletin made computer and transmission replacement free. RAV4 has been trouble free since.

[@saberlitecleaners8494]

Mine still runs like it's brand new even after 21 years.

[@liamjohnson2474]

Same here, I read about the problem before purchasing my 2003. I just spent the $300 on a new ECU up front before it started having problems, and she shifts like a champ. At only 142K I plan on driving her until the wheels fall off!

[@KevinJarrett]

Back in 2016, I bought a 2007 Limited with the 4 cylinder engine before I knew about the excessive oil consumption problem. It had 113,000 miles at the time. I also did not know that the owner had the recall service performed by the dealer. It was totally successful. The car now has 202,000 miles, does not use oil, and has had no other significant mechanical problems. Sample of one, but, here we are…it’s been the best car I’ve ever owned and I have owned a lot of cars!

[@billnotpay]

It does not have oil consumption because the dealer because they replaced the Piston rings so I don't burn that much of oil but many MANY vehicle didn't got the repair because they have to many miles on them, So when you want to buy ulone you have to make the seller giving you the repair bill but that can't be done if you're buying a car online like in my country we buy salvage or stealed cars for dirty cheap like for example: 2006 rav4 drowned in water for $1300 to take it to my country it costs $2000 and to transfer it in the country it costs another $2000 and the repair for the car to at least run that's another $1700 in the bill and count it all give you a whopping $7000 oh and the profit for the seller that's $3000 so a crappy car for the price of $10000, Now tell me will you buy it 🗿🗿🗿

[@MotorAsk]

Yeah, many of the years mentioned in the video can still be reliable if they were properly recalled and fixed. It all depends on the previous owner

[@Ar-fm5gz]

Hello , did you have a diesel or a petrol Rav4?

[@KevinJarrett]

@@Ar-fm5gz petrol

[@stardust949]

I took my time looking for a used RAV4 this Spring---I love the one I found, a 2016. It's running like a champ!

[@mickeyhartsell6096]

According to Google, 2016 was the most reliable Rav4 ever made, no issues with Supreme reliability .So you luckily stumbled upon a gem.

[@redking3718]

Bought the rav4 2016 new. Still have it. Only 30000 miles on it. Love it

[@MrRensan404]

I own a 2007 RAV4 V6 Sport. It now has 200K miles to date and had no oil consumption issues mentioned here. I have only done oil and filter changes, fluid interval changes, brake and tire changes.

[@dalesmith4985]

The oil problem was only in the 2.5 litre 4 cylinder engines because of low tension piston rings

[@joewhitlow5799]

I have an 07 V6 it makes popping noises in the steering wheel when I turn it is that a common quirk or do I have something wrong?😅

[@MrRensan404]

@@joewhitlow5799 I experience that too. Not sure where it is coming from. I have to ask the dealership service department to check it out next service interval.

[@68garland]

Words on a 2007 Rav4 V6 from a Toyota MDT that opened my own Toyota shop back in 1988, I'm retired now with a Lexus RX350, a Toyota Sequoia in my garage. Monitor your drive train of your Toyota or Lexus for sounds, vibrations and noises. I've owned almost every car or truck Toyota or Lexus made. My knowledge on having any of the basics is correctly performed at scheduled times with OE filters, Synthetic Engine Oils. Auto Transmissions every 60k will need to pull the Transmission pan cleaning the pan to trans block. Toyota sales the sealant for pan before mounting under the transmission. BTW-You will see a small magnet in bottom of pan, clean it as well before putting it back into the pan. Flush Brakes and Brake Master every 2years with Synthetic Brake Fluid. One maintenances' that most 4/4's don't think is drain and refill are the differentials of your 4x4s before you have 50k on the Diffs.. When you hear something different, don't just turn up the radio, stop and check for leaks and sounds.

[@vickineikirk965]

​@@68garlandinteresting, I'd love to hear more. Looking at both brands. Tks for info, I'll save it.

[@minminaye3440]

Still driving a 2000 Rav4 with a manual transmission, still a great car with no complicate engine issues or transmission issues.

[@bricmabesa1877]

I bought a used 2011 2.4l....everything checked out fine before I bought it in 2017. It's now 2023 and everything STILL checks out fine.👍

[@johnleura7178]

how many miles???

[@drevtrump]

I didn't have that kind of luck with my 2011. Bought it this year (2023) with only 88k...but...steering unit ECU bad...6k fix. Condensor bad....1.6k fix. Transmission problems....finally got rid of it within 2 months. Didn't get all of this fixed and the dealership actually took it back and credited us for the original price.

[@theobserver7764]

Thanks for the helpfull video.

[@azpro2957]

Practically all of them! These guys must work for Honda! Luckily I have a 2000 RAV4.

[@aronsanchez6999]

2020 owner here 35k miles. No complaints here.

[@AndrewMaksymBrainNectar]

Runs ok so far? No fuel pump/tank issues? Has android and apple car play? I'm looking to get a 2020.

[@lizaperelman4933]

2020 owner here 30k miles . Have issues with lane assistance, have to turn it off because car can jerk suddenly. Other than that I started to notice car does have multiple squeaks and rattling coming from body but other than that car is very comfortable and drives smooth

[@katelynmmitchell8950]

Got a 2008 rav4 havent had any issues except replacing the oil pressure sensor and it runs great

[@beckyl1090]

I own a 2013. Never had any of those issues noted in the video. Still runs and drives very well.

[@MotorAsk]

RAV4 is still a VERY reliable car, these years are simply the least reliable on paper (according to reliability ratings, complaints and recalls) These years can still be very reliable if properly maintained up to date with recalls etc

[@tobiasjfmostert]

Same here, 2013 Shape registered in 2014, 2.2 D4D AWD Manual, Absolutely AMAZING Vehicle. So good in fact that I do not want to sell the vehicle at all! I have not had any of these issues!

[@Pous410]

Same

[@tompeters6448]

Have a 2013. Really haven't had a problem. Took advantage of the torque converter at 59000. Have 93000 now. Hope to get another 60000 miles by doing the maintenance as recommended.

[@gamingman735]

i have 2013 as well and am at 170,000 with no issues regular maintenance. here to tell you it’ll last that long no issue.

[@dannysillivant]

My 1999 Rav4 4D FWD with 205k miles on it still runs like a top!

[@PatTheRiot]

I have a 2013 rav4 and I had a 2015. The 2013 is quieter (carpeted wheel wells) but less peppy and bouncier. Theres no auto lights. The paint is a bit crisp true but no its not peeling at all. Zero rust on the salt belt. Its a tank this car. Itll get you there. Transmission is smooth as butter. Pedal to the floor it still revs up nicely as a 4 cyl should. Thats a 10 yrs old car. Runs better than most new cars today.

[@salimi.sheriff7608]

Helpful information

[@zgrumpyyt5461]

My 2006 RAV4 is about to hit 200000 Km's without any major issues, most reliable car we have ever had

[@TaijiArban]

Keep in mind. Most of these are only true if you buy them used or have skimped out on maintenance. Oil consumption can easily be avoided if the oil has been changed at 5k-6k miles at least once, preferably twice a year. Edit: forgot to add, we have a 2019 Rav4 non-hybrid and have none of the mentioned issues. As well as a 2012 camry with the 4cyl which shares the same drivetrain and have had no issues either.

[@EclipseMints08]

I got my 2006 Toyota Rav4 back in 2010. Did oil changes every 3000 miles. It's now 2023 and I've had a transmission rebuild and oil consumption is through the roof where I have to get oil changes every 1000 miles. Car has 170K miles on it and I got the car when it had 60K miles.

[@OldDood]

We have a 2022 RAV4 limited hybrid. We love this car. I got everything you can get on it. And at that time, it was a six month wait. Because of shortages in the supply. We paid it off in just under two years. And we only have just over 10,000 miles on it. I plan on keeping this for at least 15 years if not more. We have a 2007 Camry XLe fully loaded and that’s running great with 93,000 miles on it. We plan on keeping this car until the wheels fall off

[@erickgaticacandia967]

Thank you !

[@rickinpr]

THATS WAHT I LIKE. DOWN TO THE POINT.. THANKS

[@user-vq8ry3jo2x]

Thanks have been looking to buy 😅

[@CRAZYxJ3SUS]

Got a 2009 4 cyl that just hit 115k and it runs great till this day. Haven't had any oil issues the only thing come up that was serious was the spark plugs going bad at around 100k .

[@Rt-ig4bk]

That’s serious?😂

[@Grimbot81]

Best Rav4s are the V6 ones. 'Nuff said.

[@davidwayne9982]

GREAT video- thanks--- I'm looking for a nice 2012 V6 and going to change the high pressure oil line and put a locker on it (if it doesn't already have one)... and that will be PERFECT..

[@solasolar1]

I have a 2009 V6 limited purchased new. So far, not one single issue. About to pass the 100k mark. I almost traded it on a new Rav, but there were things I liked more about my old one, so I kept it. The new one wasn't worth the current price mark-ups to me.

[@jaycobmelo1904]

Mines has 170k v6

[@dalesmith4985]

it was the 4 cylinder rav4 that had oil consumption problems

[@trailerparkcryptoking5213]

2007 V6 and 200K....most dependable vehicle in the world...bought it brand new....

[@johnmerry18]

2007 V6 limited bought with 144k now 198k. Love it so much we bought a 2011 V6 with 111k. 26 mpg on highway and the snappiest carsI have ever owned.

[@user-zq5jd7ee9n]

Interesting that 2013 is on your list. I have had my 2013 for almost 7 years now and have had zero issues with it. And certainly none of the issues you mention here for the 2013. Which just proves that 2013 RAVs are not bad vehicles overall. The only bad vehicles are the ones that have issues, but the whole 2013 line does not. But, as we know, our experiences determine our opinions.

[@charleyecho2394]

2013 rav4 xle vin. J first letter Best car I have ever owned. 10 years now.

[@nwsights6301]

Thats strange. My 2006 has 187k miles burns no oil at all between 4 to 6k mile oil changes, the one thing it DID have was a very small evap leak easy fix with a smoke machine tester and it had clunking while steering but easy cheap fix with the replacement of the intermediate steering shaft part was 40 bucks labor took maybe an hour. No transmission issues i drain and fill the transmission fluid once a year, a very smooth reliable ride!

[@kelvinsparks4651]

I have a 2003 with 103k miles and it's a brilliant little machine with not so much as a murmur.

[@irmageller]

Thank you very much! Shalom

[@vermontjeff2535]

Good my 2011 rav 4 wasn’t on the hit list and I can tell you why . 191,554 miles on it and it’s a joy to drive and never needed anything.

[@erswnn]

2011, 4 cylinder, 175,000 miles, burns no oil and I've had to fix literally nothing. Not even a light bulb.

[@chadhansen5057]

the gen2 rav4 transmission problem was actually the ecu wich controls the shifting timing so as long as your gen2 got the ecu recall you can get alot of miles out of the 4 speed Automatic transmission, my 2001 rav4 L with 280,000 on the transmission still has some life in it but could use a transmission fluid change I don't think it's been done sence like 2010 😂

[@andrewmason9723]

2002 here with 198,000+ and no major issues yet, change my fluids and repair worn parts and it hasn't let me down yet...

[@andyl9920]

Interesting. How about the 04-05 rav4? R they good?

[@tjaartvaneeden8072]

When you say avoid the 2013 rav4 you should indicate the VX and not the GX as that is a manual 6 speed version and is really reliable. The only major problems you will find is the lower control arm bushes as well as the front brake caliper pins wearing. This will not break the bank as the bushes are replaceable as well as the pins. I have a diesel and AWD and it gives me around 8.8 lt per 100 km in town and long the long road around 7 lt per 100 km. Very good vehicle solid and very capable in off-road areas

[@canofanger]

I have a 2020 and have never had an issue with it. Runs beautifully.

[@MrDreadEnd]

how many miles

[@canofanger]

@@MrDreadEnd close to 70,000 miles now.

[@TheByrne21]

I love how every model with issues was following launch/redesign. At least Toyota fixes their issues mid product line.

[@bro2917]

The manual Rav4 gen2 2001-2003 were rock solid and did not suffer from any ECM issues.

[@gatorhawk1324]

Is there any year left without any problems?

[@Nanaehhco45]

I own a 2012 rav4 base with 3rd row, 4cyl. No oil consumption after 270k miles, but has recently developed a done on the transmission at 40mph and abovedado. Most likely a torque converter problem.

[@howardoneil1917]

2005 here. manual trans. so far so good. over 150k

[@luckydubefan808]

Very, very helpful. Thank you.

[@chrisnoves3636]

dont listen to him! toyotas worst years are other companies best years!

[@elrafaga]

I have a 2005 Rav4 (4x4 manual) and it´s the best car I´ve ever had, in performance and reliability.

[@jackieleung5365]

We had a 2006 v6 model with over 190,000 miles with none of these listed issues….normal Maintenance like oil, fluids, tires, brakes, batteries, spark plugs. I dont recall any issues besides the turn stalk flasher relay going out….

[@MotorAsk]

RAV4 is still a VERY reliable car, these years are simply the least reliable on paper (according to reliability ratings, complaints and recalls) These years can still be very reliable if properly maintained up to date with recalls etc.

[@riazhassan6570]

Have a 2004 RAV4. It runs and runs with no problems (touch wood) so far

[@mohasmh]

I already got a 2015 vxr which has every option except for a front sensor

[@tjaartvaneeden8072]

I have a 2013 Toyota Rav4 2.2 diesel AWD. Car has 350k no problems on paint and engine. I have a manual 6 speed box in my car.

[@gmill4977]

You need to be more specific about the year model of Rav4. I own a 2020 Rav4 le awd. I bought it brand new, I have never had a single problem! Mine has been made in Canada too.

[@MotorAsk]

Thanks for your comment. This is our first YT video and maybe could have made it a bit clearer, but just because these RAV4 years are the worst on paper, doesn't mean they can't be reliable, and it certainly doesn't mean that EVERY RAV4 from these years will have these exact same problems. There are a lot of variables in terms of manufacturing, recalls, servicing, etc.

[@Bruhman514]

Same my rav4 is a 2020 and it’s been solid. Over 50,000 miles with no issues

[@tmwei396]

There needs to be a correction about the 2006-2008 RAV4. Those issues you mentioned are only for the 4-cylinder versions. The V6 versions were fine. I know because I have one and I don't have any of those issues after 189,000 miles so far.

[@yarasethelorza4836]

I have a 2008 RAV4 V6 and it’s the best in the game!! I am about to hit 200,000 miles and with very small maintenance especially now that I have done the whole suspension. That clunking is either caused by your axles or your steering wheel. There is a small clip that tends to break and causes a clicking clunking sound. In my case it was my passenger side axle. I had a really bad boot that was not noticed by car shops or could even be heard so it would happen randomly. Since I moved to the city I come across more potholes and bumps and would constantly hear it. I got it repaired and there are no more sounds. However, I did struggle to find the correct part as my car is a front wheel drive. The previous owner didn’t fix any suspension and the boot was so bad that it started causing issues to the axle itself. Outside of that it’s like brand new and no problems!

[@saberlitecleaners8494]

My family has owned the 2001 Rav4 since 2002. I took ownership of the car in 2019 and it's still runs like it's brand new.

[@richardmorse5307]

I heard about avoiding the 2019 and 2020 gas RAV4’s from the Car Care Nut Channel but I can’t recall if that includes hybrids.

[@toyotatacomaguy23]

i own a 2013 rav4 limited awd, the screen is visible with day light shining on it. there is only small paint chips on the hood. there is no crunching while braking and there is barely any shuttering. it has 175k miles on it and ive owned it for four years. i see a couple other comments saying they own this model year and have experienced minimal of these problems.

[@alphabeta123100]

What about 2018 ALA49L antxy diesel 2.2 4D4 engine ?

[@mingchang5248]

I still drive my 2004 RAV4 limited model now mileage record 200,000. Never major repairs. It runs very fine. RAV4 is A excellent small SUV.

[@jennlewy3299]

did u make a video on which used Rav4 you suggest?

[@lucacarneiro839]

I own a 2006 rav4 and I had in 2006 a calling from toyota to resolve the oil cunsumption problem and since then I until this day never had an problem

[@ilarionastreos6823]

What works did Toyota did to your car regarding the oil consumption?

[@mridware9694]

Im having 2013 Rav4 since 11 years 😊

[@carfor]

The 2013 RAV4 is the best listed among all to me

[@roniparcon8821]

I have 2001 manual T, at 245,000 on the clock, now I'm looking for replacing power door lock module

[@christophercrowdis7308]

Well i have a 2001 rav4 and its an awesome economic car the parts are cheap and it drives extremely well.even if i have to change the transmission theres good used ones everywhere to replace.i realy recomend this model.😅

[@murrayent1able]

We still rocking our 04-05 Rav4 with minor problems 👀🙌🏾💪🏾🙏🏾🫡👏🏾🕺🏻💃🏻🕺🏻💃🏻🕺🏻💃🏻

[@DanielHernandez-rj9me]

I got a 98 runs lovely

[@halidhalilagic261]

Hello Mr.Hernandez I am looking to by Toyota Rav 4 1998,is there anything that i should pay attention,and i was planning to install LPG. What do you think about that. Thank you

[@sam999us]

🔴 I own a 2011 Rav4 v6 Limited.. It has never let me down, and I do not find any defects in it worth mentioning.👍

[@StPlazma]

Just bought one, I love it

[@joshephand5538]

My 2005 Camry was jerky after 4 years owned, the spark plug coils was bad

[@Theo-io5np]

My 2008 has 178000 miles. It uses a quart of oil every 5000 miles, at which point I change it. Can’t complain about that.

[@durlahwilliamson5124]

Is it ok to buy a 2021 Le rav 4 use

[@user-uu9cg4uj9y]

I just got an auto 02 with 40k miles, the car looks brand new. lets see how it holds up

[@dj_A]

I do have the toyota 2007 and has never broke down once

[@childishgambino3471]

I hade lexus lx 470 2003 and rav 4 2001 manual gear box. And rav 4 was most offroad cR then lx 470 in snow.sorry for my english

[@omgcheeter]

The transmission issues was not the transmission itself but the computer that needed to be fixed. They had a soldering issue and if you get it fixed, it takes care of that.

[@richieedwards4133]

Great vid. Very informative. I'm guessing 2021 and 22 RAV4s come without the issues of the 19 and 20

[@maxmaxed2887]

Right? I was looking at used RAV4s and was almost ready to get 2019. Now I know to get 2018

[@chrisnoves3636]

Terrible vid, dude sounds like he works for honda...

[@williamconnell6541]

Does that leave any good years to buy a Rav4? 😁 i was looking into the 2023 model, will continue to look and will also spread my search to other makers as well.

[@petersnell3128]

Just one thing to say - Rav4's are quite reliable and durable vehicles. Even comments here from current and previous owners speak to that.

[@billnotpay]

Thank you for this awesome video But I have a question: is the 2009-2012 models are good and is the V6 is worth the $2000 price difference please answer 👍👍👍

[@MotorAsk]

The 2009-12 models all get pretty high reliable marks from Consumer Reports, with 2012 getting the best marks (5/5) Have a look at CarComplaints.com to get an idea of the most common problems for those years: www.carcomplaints.com/Toyota/RAV4/ and then question the dealer or private seller about them. You can also run a VIN check to make sure the car is up to date on recalls.

[@kysmwr]

i have a december 2011 RAV4 european facelfit, 2.2 diesel 150hp rav4, i own it for a year, and i'm very pleased by it, if u like ravs and you're ok with fuel consumption of that engine i think it's a good decision and worth the price, that v6 it's very powerful engine for a rav, i have fun with my 150hp, so 269 it's something else. However i didn't do my research of outside of europe rav petrol engines, but from what i heard that engine it's not an endless money pit...

[@kysmwr]

@@stephanebaribeau7465 wow, i have 7 outside the city and 11-12 in city, not that big of dif...

[@kysmwr]

@@stephanebaribeau7465 yes, but i have 4 cylinders diesel engine, but a decent gas mileage for a 3.5 liters

[@relic69]

2009 Sport V6 made in Japan. 165,000 kms. Owned for 7 years after lots of research. Routine maintenance and replacement parts, as good as new.

[@janetvang6898]

2012 is the best year then I guess . Well I got the 2012 Toyota Rav 4 2.5 liter engine v 4 , 4wd. It also have the 3 rd row seat to it. But the thing is idk if I did the right choice since is 2.5 liter and 4wd?

[@dekompose]

I said that two but with my fatass and fatass family we needed the v6 awd after driving the 2.5 lol

[@gregoryeatman9570]

As far as the 2006 to 2008, there should have been a distinction made between the 4cyl and V6 engines, particularly AWDs. The V6 is very reliable and the vehicle, at least the AWD version, IS made in Japan. 200k on a 2008 V6, no issues.

[@reynaldodizon6563]

I heard about horror stories about RAV4 Hybrid 2019-2021 that are having corrosion problem on the connector on the high voltage that connect the battery to the main engine that will cost in more than $7000.00 to replace. Canadian in Quebec are already preparing class action suit to Toyota.

[@EclipseMints08]

Yikes. Corrosion already in a 2019-2021??? That's way too early. I wonder what corners Toyota cut to have that problem.

[@AnchorAlchemist]

I bought a 2007 with the V6 engine and had no issues with it until 2018. Took it to the dealer and they said it had a cracked cylinder. Took it to a local shop for a second opinion and they said the same thing. $4K for a new engine. I traded it on for a 2018 Rav4 and no problems. I was getting Carfax e-mails about the 2007, and apparently, someone bought it and I put over 130,000 miles on it and the new owner has close to 200,000 miles on it. I got eleven years of reliability out, money well spent!

[@MotorAsk]

Thanks for your comment. We maybe could have made it a bit clearer, but just because these RAV4 years are the worst on paper, doesn't mean they can't be reliable, and it certainly doesn't mean that EVERY RAV4 from these years will have these exact same problems. There are a lot of variables in terms of manufacturing, recalls, servicing, etc.

[@AnchorAlchemist]

@@MotorAsk No, I understood the video and your reply is exactly what I meant by my comment. Thanks for making good content.

[@agnesntombela6750]

@@MotorAsk please advise on 5 Series BMW 2016 M diesel

[@bekakasambala7108]

So which best RAV4 years should buy

[@SweetTeaEnthusiast]

2016

[@kennethabhayatanuwiharja1517]

1998

[@Viidarr13]

according to replies i got from social media, mechanics, owners it seems models of 2004-2005 are good , 2009-2010 and 2014-16. but if u ask me it doesnt matter rly cuz u gona have to maintain any car regardles of its age so my advice just go with the wind and be happy. focus on that.

[@nickmarangos2475]

The 2001 to 2005 2.0d4d 5 speed manual and the 1st gen 5 speed manuals

[@dumpsterfire6351]

1st gen duh

[@lesterpenner8786]

I used to own a 2009 Rav4 2.5 4cyl and a 2012 Camry 2.5 4cyl. They both started consuming engine oil around 180 kms and oil changes were done in the normal 8000km range.

[@joshephand5538]

I had to replaced crank seal to stop oil leak

[@alfonsobrena]

@@joshephand5538 I had a Camry that had the same problem.

[@joshephand5538]

@@alfonsobrena My Camry also burning smoke out the exhaust

[@namtech425]

I have a 2003 Rav4 2 door - its got 218 000kms on it and it runs like a top - some rattles but I sorted them out no problem. Seems you told everyone "Don't buy a RAV4."

[@SMLEFGFJB]

Are there any exceptional years?

[@binneydon4531]

Sorry mate, I currently own a 2006 T180 turbocharged 2.2 Toyota RAV4, and this is the best car ever,I bought this car back in 2017, this car has raw power when needed, really fuel efficient on long run 48-52 MPG tank range 382 miles 4x4 when needed with a button press, I can't complain this car has over 180000 miles and run great,few xtra upgrade like radio but honestly this car was a head of it's time keyless, fully leather, heated seats, electric steering, only down fault this model didn't came with spare wheel or roof rack.

[@domo_mancuso6099]

My 2013 Rav4 transmission just took a crap at only 137,000 miles. I had the transmission serviced at 80,000 miles too. All maintenance was done regularly. Very disappointed with mine.

[@sigurjontorfason3604]

1995 toyota rav4 with 460 thousand miles still going strong💪

[@dennisbeltre4034]

Is there anything to say about the 1997, the first generation Rav4? I am looking for one, you can find them with more than 300k. To me that says has a good engine but I don't know for sure. Any experience with them will be much appreciated. Thank you!

[@guillermopena1938]

The pieces may be hard to find, wheels, and etc. Overall, it is a really good car, but the problems may vary since the model is 26 years old.

[@StarWizard-yp2sz]

They are a non-interference engine the 97 RAV4 is an awesome vehicle if you have one it's worth putting a new belt and let it roll for another hundred thousand.

[@nat73360]

I own a 2013 RAV4 with no problems.

[@MotorAsk]

RAV4 is still a VERY reliable car, these years are simply the least reliable on paper (according to reliability ratings, complaints, and recalls) These years can still be very reliable if properly maintained and up to date with recalls etc.

[@sherazali6739]

Depends which plants were these models made...coz Japanese plants has awesome history

[@MotorAsk]

Yes, we have an article on our site about why Japanese-made Toyotas are slightly better

[@_ford_crown_victoria_p]

2:25 it only applies to the 4 cylinder models according to the different sources of internet I looked up

[@Angelitaasmr]

What about the 2016? Anyone had any issues with that year?

[@local698]

I have the 2004 rav4 2.0 500k miles no issues and it's my farm vehicle

[@DELOS13]

I bought a 2019 Adventure, and it had an trans case issues, the 4X4 system. But Toyota is great and replaced it 100% within a day. The problem stopped, and it feels like it runs way better now

[@starriderstudios]

Replaced on a recall or did it have to break first?

[@DELOS13]

@starriderstudios it was recalled after, but they still put in a new one. It had about 18k miles only, so yes, after it broke

[@starriderstudios]

@@DELOS13 I checked my vin , made in Canada, and Toyota said all recalls have been fixed

[@itsallrobbish]

2007 RAV4 that I had was pretty reliable, but the steering was very clunky and dodgy. A faint whine from the gearbox also. Not a patch on the equivalent CRV fpr refinement and interior build. Honda for life, now.

[@That_Guy255]

I have an 03 rav with a manual never had issues

[@craig9843]

Uggggh and I have a 2019 Rav4 that I bought new . Good to know (I guess). I had a roof leak due to the roof rails and I had passed my warranty but thankfully Toyota approved to pay the repair. It was over a $2000 repair, yeah they better be glad they did because I probably would have gotten rid of it.

[@MotorAsk]

RAV4 is still a VERY reliable car, these years are simply the least reliable on paper (according to reliability ratings, complaints and recalls) These years can still be very reliable if properly maintained up to date with recalls etc.

[@paulwigley6883]

Bought 2019 from new After nearly 3 years no problem Great suv

[@CruentusV]

maybe a good follow up would be the best model years for RAV4 (granted, it'd be an even shorter video)...

[@user-vq8ry3jo2x]

Been looking to buy up dated rav 4 this helps have a chance to buy 07 rav but it burns oil bad tailpipes r black not want this one😢

[@zoervleisj]

What about the first generation? No problems?

[@jakevic7342]

The toyota shudder is from the torque converter. It can be fixed with any shudder additive, do not let a stealership charge you 2+ grand for a new torque converter.