Toyota is known for making some of the most durable cars in history, and their famous RAV4 is not an exception. Launched in May 1994, this compact SUV comes with impressive fuel efficiency, a variety of trims, and decent powertrains that are great for everyday use.
The compact SUV segment has had quite a few impressive options in recent years, but the Toyota RAV4 still stands out as one of the best options available, both brand-new and used.
Buying a used RAV4 can be a valuable purchase if you’re looking for a dependable SUV without having to spend a fortune. However, there are certain things to take into account before buying a RAV4 to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best and worst years of the RAV4 and its life expectancy.
2013, 2014 And 2019 Models Are On The Problematic Side Of The Toyota RAV4 Spectrum
Unfortunately, the 2019 model Toyota RAV4 is plagued by transmission problems. Several owners have filed complaints concerning hesitations and lack of acceleration at slower speeds on the Car Complaints website. On average, 2019 RAV4 owners have had to spend $3,000 to fix this issue.
On the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s website, there are seven recalls for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 for the faulty fuel system, steering, suspension, and other areas. Further indicating, 2019 is a model year that buyers should avoid.
The 2013 RAV4 has complaints concerning different areas, but none seems to be as severe as the 2019’s faulty transmission. Though there are still some reports of sudden unintended acceleration both on Car Complaints and the NHTSA’s website, causing highly hazardous situations and putting the driver’s and the passengers’ lives in danger.
Both 2013 and 2014 models suffer from faulty stereo and infotainment systems that either are glitchy or stop working altogether. Fixing the stereo system has cost $770 on average for the owners.
Another common complaint that the 2013 and 2014 RAV4 models are subject to is body and paint problems. Some owners complained about mud, sand, salt, or snow accumulating under the door in areas that were not easy to reach for cleaning.
The problematic models don’t end with those three years. In fact, some of the most problematic RAV4s are the 2007 and 2008 models.
More than 100 owners have complained about excessive oil consumption in their 2008 Toyota RAV4. The number of complaints pertaining to oil consumption rates surpasses 160 for the 2007 model, which is the most problematic model of the bunch.
The Toyota RAV4 Can Reach 200,000 to 250,000 Miles If Maintained Regularly
Reputable automobile websites suggest that a Toyota RAV4 can effortlessly reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles on the odometer without needing expensive overhauls. That is, of course, if it is appropriately maintained.
The average driver in the US puts out roughly 14,000 miles in a year. That translates to 14 to 17 years of use for a Toyota RAV4.Typically, you’d want to expect major repairs regarding the engine or the transmission when a car reaches the 250,000-mile mark.
However, several owners have mentioned in RAV4 forums that they have managed to exceed 300,000 miles with the original engine and transmission. Nonetheless, if you’re the third or the fourth owner of a Toyota RAV4, it is a safer strategy to expect engine or transmission replacements around 150,000 miles.
Following Toyota’s recommended maintenance schedule ensures your RAV4 lives up to its maximum potential.
Some notable services include:
- Every 5,000 miles: inspect all fluid levels, brake pads, and wiper blades, rotate the tires.
- Every 10,000 miles: change the motor oil.
- Every 15,000 miles: on 4WD models, inspect rear differential oil and transfer case oil, inspect ball joints, brake lines, cabin air filter, cooling system, and exhaust pipes.
- Every 30,000 miles: change the cabin air filter and the engine air filter.
- Every 100,000 miles: replace the engine coolant.
- Every 120,000 miles: replace the spark plugs.
Repair Pal estimates the average cost of ownership for a Toyota RAV4 to sit at $429. That’s about a hundred bucks lower than average for the compact SUV segment.
A Used Toyota RAV4 Can Bring A Lot Of Bang For The Buck, So Long As You Avoid Problematic Years
Many owners praise the Toyota RAV4 for its longevity, reliability, and durability, making it an excellent family and grocery hauler.
If you’re in the market for a used Toyota RAV4, skipping on 2019, 2013, and 2014 models would be a safer bet. Older 2007 and 2008 models should be avoided since they’re subject to a high number of problems.
If it is taken care of properly, the Toyota RAV has no difficulty reaching 250,000 miles without needing any major repairs. That can be more than 17 years of use for the average American driver.