A used 2012 RAV4 should cost between $10,800 and $18,600. These numbers are based on the 2012 Toyota RAV4 listings we have on our website. The typical list cost is $14,600. Prices vary according on the location, features, mileage, and condition of the car.
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Is 2012 a good year for the Toyota RAV4?
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is a wonderful small-to-midsize crossover SUV option since it is roomy, comfortable, and simple to drive, especially if you desire a V6 or a third-row seat that can accommodate children. Newer rivals, however, are unquestionably interesting.
How durable is a 2012 Toyota RAV4?
A properly maintained Toyota RAV4 may go up to 200,000 to 250,000 miles, according to most experts. Once you pass that point, it’s feasible and perhaps probable that more frequent maintenance or care will be required to keep things in working order. This may entail placing new part orders and requesting more fluid flushes. Even so, the RAV4 is a worthwhile purchase given that the average individual uses their vehicle for upwards of 25 years or more and drives about 10,000 miles every year.
How can you make your Toyota RAV4 last longer?
The actual mileage will always depend on numerous factors. The secret to getting the RAV4or any vehicle, for that matterto attain those high figures is proper maintenance. Keep all of your regular maintenance appointments, including oil changes, tire rotations, wheel alignments, and transmission flushes. Additionally, be sure to clean it often, maintain the interior and exterior in excellent condition, and be careful to prevent rust as the vehicle ages. Any car can suffer a lot of damage from rust. For all cleaning, maintenance, and other care, meticulously adhere to the instructions and timetables in your owner’s manual.
What issues exist with the 2012 Toyota RAV4?
The 2012 Toyota RAV4 is a great option and has less issues than other compact SUVs on the market. Compared to the more recent 2013 model, there are less complaints.
Owners claim that the most typical issue is peeling paint. When factory curing fails, paint peels. The only option is to repaint the damaged panels, which might cost up to $1,000 depending on labor costs where you live.
Another problem is the engine surging when stopping. Vacuum leaks and software problems are just two examples of the many causes. Depending on the cause of the issue, repair costs can range from $100 to $550.
Another common issue is the rear shock absorber leaking oil. Usually, a failed seal in the assembly is to blame for a shock’s leak. Only a $300 shock component replacement can fix the problem.
The average number of recalls for an SUV from 2012 is six. The load carrying labels, brake actuator assembly, electric drive system, windshield wipers, and seat belt webbing are among the items being recalled. All of them are critical issues that have an impact on the car’s dependability and safety, and a Toyota dealership ought to take care of them.
What year of the RAV4 has problems?
The first, most popular, and longest-running compact crossover (CUV) SUV in the country is the Toyota RAV4. It spans five generations, with the initial North American release taking place in 1996. Given that the RAV4 has been in existence for so long, it is only reasonable to presume that some model years have some issues. The following Toyota RAV4 years should be avoided if you’re trying to purchase a secondhand RAV4.
Is Buying a Toyota RAV4 Worth It?
Prior to being renamed to Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-Wheel Drive, RAV4 stood for Recreational Activity Vehicle with 4-Wheel Drive. Nobody is certain why or for what the alteration was made, but it seems likely that it was merely a marketing ploy.
Since its premiere as a concept car in the 1989 automotive industry, the RAV4 has undergone significant changes. Through five generations, the considerably more ruggedly designed off-road vehicle has evolved into a useful four-wheel-drive small crossover with SUV capabilities and genuine everyday car amenities.
These Toyota RAV4 years should be avoided: none. A well-kept Toyota of any kind will last you, as was already stated. An earlier generation can be something to buy if you’re searching for something that encourages a little more toughness and simplicity. You should stay with a late fourth- or fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 if you want a vehicle with all the latest technologies, including safety, infotainment, driver assistance, and more.
The CoPilot app isn’t just for purchasing a car; it can also be used to keep track of recalls and receive recommendations on which regular maintenance activities are most crucial.
Fifth-Generation: RAV4 Years to Avoid (2019)
Numerous customers have voiced complaints regarding transmission issues with the 2019 Toyota RAV4. Even with little mileage, stuttering and lurching at slower speeds as well as transmission slippage with rough shifts have been recorded.
For 2019 cars, brake problems have also been noted. With relatively few miles, squealing, clicking, and general brake system malfunction have all been observed. Even some drivers have claimed that when they pressed the brakes, the car would accelerate, forcing them to brace for contact.
Fourth-Generation: RAV4 Years to Avoid (2013)
Owners have reported that the entire car rattles when traveling at low speeds. While some owners have spent up to $4,500 for a new torque converter, some owners claim that the dealership assured them there was nothing wrong and that the car was functioning normally.
The inability to see the navigational markers in direct sunlight is another issue that owners have noted. Nothing seems to work, despite adjusting the contrast and brightness. Even a visit to the dealer for software updates is ineffective at solving the issue.
Fourth-Generation: All Model Problem Areas
Problems with the infotainment system have affected all vehicles from the fourth generation. The radio seems to want to restart on its own; however, it is a small issue that doesn’t require much work to fix.
Third-Generation: RAV4 Years to Avoid (2009-2012)
Unwanted acceleration was one of the most common complaints about the RAV4 from 2009 to 2012. Numerous drivers had complained that even with their foot on the brake, the compact crossover would continue to accelerate, negating the power of the brakes and resulting in an accident.
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(2006-2008) Toyota RAV4 Problem Areas
Each model year, these Toyota RAV4s received at least 600 complaints. In relation to 15% of those complaints, there were engine issues. The RAV4 appears to burn a lot of oil, which is expensive and smelly.
Defective steering shafts are another significant concern that make up half of all complaints. It’s possible to find a secondhand RAV4 that no longer has this issue because it was rectified, but it seems to be one of those issues that recurs whether you have the vehicle fixed or not.
Second-Generation: RAV4 Years to Avoid (2001-2003)
RAV4s from 2001 to 2003 mostly had gearbox issues. More than 500 complaints were made in total, up from 60 in the previous generation, and 60% of those concerns had to do with transmissions. Other difficulties included incorrect acceleration and powertrain faults, the majority of which might be attributed to the transmission troubles.
The Toyota RAV4 also fell short in the area of safety. The RAV4 received a subpar score in the side impact test from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). However, the grade would probably go up if the RAV4 included safety-side airbags. Find out if the car has this feature if it’s anything that worries you as a buyer. To improve the RAV4’s overall safety rating, vehicle stability control was incorporated as a standard feature in 2004.
There are several cars available that allow you to tower above obstacles without sacrificing the comfort of a compact automobile. Because of this, we’ve compiled a list of our top new sedans with high ground clearance.
First-Generation: RAV4 Years to Avoid
As long as you don’t mind a tough, small crossover, most of these RAV4s are trouble-free. The only significant problem is that, like many models from 1996 to 2000, the safety and technological features are antiquated. However, these are fantastic if you needed a little, fuel-efficient, easy-to-drive buggy to drive around town.
Common Toyota RAV4 Problems
The Toyota RAV4 enjoys a strong reputation for dependability. The RAV4 has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, according to RepairPal. The RAV4 has experienced many persistent issues over the course of its lengthy manufacture, though:
- Transmission troubles are likely to be the cause of difficulty changing gears or the SUV lurching when traveling at lower speeds. The 2019 appears to have transmission issues worse than the more recent models.
- Excessive oil consumption is a widespread issue that first appeared with the RAV4 model in 2005. Many drivers claimed that the SUV used more oil than usual between 75,000 and 150,000 miles. Toyota was forced to extend the warranty as a result of this problem.
- The wheel may lock up or pull to one side as a result of steering issues, which are very prevalent with the 2017 model year. Additionally, some owners claimed to hear knocking sounds when they turned.
- Engine cooling issues – The system that keeps the engine cool is vulnerable to leaks, which can cause coolant fluid to flow into the engine and seriously harm the mechanical components.
Finding a Good Used Toyota RAV4 in Your Area
Avoid the following Toyota RAV4 model years: 2019, 2013, and 20062008. They are the ones with the most well-known issues, but keep in mind that they are Toyotas, which are renowned for their dependability. By purchasing one in decent condition, the tiny problems they have won’t put you in the poor house. Finding a well-kept Toyota RAV4 with reasonable mileage is the best course of action when looking for one. Like any car, as it ages, issues can arise, but serious issues can be prevented by doing your research when purchase.
How to Tell If a Toyota RAV4 is Worth Purchasing
Bring a knowledgeable friend if you’re not sure how to determine whether the Toyota RAV4 you want to buy has been well maintained. Anyone can tell whether a car has been through the ringer or not by looking at it. However, a semi-educated vehicle person should be able to prevent you from making a costly error for some of the signals that not everyone will be aware of and that a buyer might try to hide.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
The simplest way to purchase a car is using the CoPilot auto shopping app. You may create a customized list of the top car listings in your area by telling us what you’re looking for, and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area.
Just seeking for more recent models? The search engine for virtually new vehicles is CoPilot Compare. only observe recentfive years or lessautos with little mileage. The greatest place to look for off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO vehicles is CoPilot Compare.
What’s best? We have more information on each vehicle than our rivals since CoPilot was developed using the same technologies that dealerships use to acquire and sell their inventories. Since CoPilot doesn’t partner with automakers, there aren’t any sponsored posts or other dubious tacticsjust the most information about the best vehicles. To learn more about CoPilot’s operation, see our About Us page.
If so, does the 2012 Toyota RAV4 have one?
SAFETY The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2012 Toyota RAV4 a four out of five star grade. In frontal, rollover, and side-impact crash testing, it received four out of five stars and five stars, respectively. The 2012 RAV4 achieved the highest score of Good in front and side crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and the second-highest score of Acceptable in roof-strength crash tests.
In the outboard seats of the RAV4, there are two sets of lower Latch anchors. My daughter’s rear-facing convertible seat wasn’t too difficult to install despite being slightly buried between the seat cushions.
The 2012 RAV4 comes equipped with six airbags, including side curtains for the first and second rows, antilock brakes with braking assist, an electronic stability system with traction control, active front head restraints, and front-wheel drive as standard. There are no side drapes in the third row, which is an option. Daytime running lights, a backup camera, and all-wheel drive are options.
A 2012 RAV4 has 4WD, not AWD.
No, when the RAV4 decides 4WD is advantageous, it can be in 4WD mode at any speed.
The RAV4’s driver cannot disable the system and put the vehicle in 4WD mode above 25 mph.
The 4WD Lock button primarily serves to aid the driver in gaining free movement. The system thinks you are not trapped if you are moving more quickly than 25 MPH.
It’s a really great system. Tires really do make a significant difference in the winter. In many circumstances, a 2WD car with good snow tires will likely perform better in the snow than a 4WD RAV4 with subpar/balding tires.
Has the 2012 RAV4 has Bluetooth?
- Toyota EntuneTM Services Included With New Display Audio System RAV4’s four cylinders can achieve up to 28 mpg. Two- or Three-Row Versatility with 269 HP and Up to 27 MPG in the V6 RAV4
With the installation of new audio systems for 2012, the Toyota RAV4, the vehicle that launched the entire crossover category 15 years ago, gains value. While the Limited Grade will include an optional display audio system with navigation and Toyota Entune networking services, all 2012 RAV4 models will come standard with a new audio system that supports hands-free calling, phone book access, and Bluetooth wireless music streaming. The newest multimedia features are included in this display-type audio system. These include text-to-voice, XM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, and Toyota Entune services (with a 90-day trial subscription).
The Toyota RAV4 is available in three different grades: Sport, Limited, and RAV4. Each grade has an option of either a strong V6 or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Both front-wheel drive and electronic on-demand four-wheel drive can be paired with each engine. Third-row seating is an option on RAV4 and Limited grade models of the spacious RAV4.
The typical 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generates 172 lb.-ft of torque at 4,000 RPM and 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM. VVT-i, or dual variable valve timing, regulates the timing of both the intake and exhaust camshafts. Twin integrated balancing shafts lessen vibration and noise. To provide high torque throughout the engine speed range, the Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) alters the intake tract length in two stages based on RPM and throttle angle.
An automatic transmission with four speeds that is electronically regulated is mated to the four-cylinder engine. For FWD vehicles, this powertrain achieves EPA fuel efficiency estimates of 22 city/28 highway MPG and 21 city/27 highway MPG for 4WD models. In winding uphill driving, “hunting” between third and fourth gears is greatly reduced with an uphill/downhill shift control. Downshifts are automatically triggered when you brake while going downhill, which improves engine braking for improved control. To improve fuel efficiency, a flex lock-up torque converter continuously regulates lock-up switch slippage.
The 3.5-liter V6 engine that is available produces 246 lb.-ft of maximum torque at 4,700 RPM and 269 horsepower at 6,200 RPM. Dual VVT-i is another feature added to the V6 to increase economy and performance while lowering emissions. The only transmission available for the V6 is a five-speed automatic. A RAV4’s acceleration from 0 to 60 mph with the V6 takes less than seven seconds. For this level of performance, the V6 models’ estimated EPA fuel efficiency MPG ratings of 19 city/27 highway for FWD models and 19 city/26 highway for 4WD versions are good. All RAV4 variants are certified as Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEV II).
The RAV4 handles and rides like a vehicle because to its strong, rigid body construction, four-wheel independent suspension, and Electronic Power Steering (EPS). By doing away with the conventional power steering pump and only offering computer-controlled assistance when necessary, the small EPS unit improves fuel efficiency. Additionally, EPS and Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) are interfaced to provide stable handling control in challenging driving situations.
The P215/70 R16 tires on the RAV4 grade model’s 16-inch steel wheels come standard. P225/65 R17 tires with stylish steel or five-spoke aluminum alloy rims are also an option. The Sport grade’s standard 18-inch alloy wheels and sport-tuned suspension improve driving performance. P215/65/R17 tires are mounted on standard six-spoke aluminum alloy wheels for the Limited grade.
Depending on the driving situation and input from the driver, the automatic on-demand four-wheel-drive system for the RAV4 distributes torque between the front and rear wheels via an electronically regulated connection. For maximum fuel efficiency, the system may easily and constantly convert from front-wheel drive to four-wheel drive mode. For improved maneuverability, torque distribution to the rear wheels is reduced in Auto mode during low speed cornering.
Torque distribution to the rear wheels is maximized via a 4WD manual locking switch. The system switches back to Auto mode when the speed of the vehicle reaches 25 mph. Lock mode also disengages when the brakes are applied, which enhances the performance of the ABS and VSC. A traction control-based automated limited slip differential is available on RAV4 FWD variants (Auto-LSD).
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control are included as standard equipment on all RAV4 vehicles that have the third-row seat option (DAC). DAC is intended to improve low-speed descending ability by assisting in maintaining the vehicle at a target speed with little assistance from the driver, while HAC is designed to provide additional control for on-road and off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle stationary while starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.
Front and rear crumple zones, as well as energy-absorbing materials on the ceiling and doors, are all built into the RAV4’s reinforced interior. In certain rear-end incidents, active headrests on the driver and front passenger seats rise up and forward nearly quickly to help close the space between the head and the headrest. Pretensioners and belt-force limiters are integrated into the front three-point seatbelts. All sitting positions in the second and third rows have height-adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts as well.
According to the severity of the crash, the driver and passenger advanced front airbags are designed to deploy. An airbag should inflate if the front seat passenger sensor occupant classification system judges that the seat is occupied and that the person is in the appropriate weight category. Additionally, first and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags as well as driver and front passenger front-seat mounted side airbags are standard.
The STAR Safety SystemTM is standard on the RAV4 like it is on every Toyota. On the RAV4, these features include Smart Stop Technology, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, and Traction Control (SST). In order to affect steering assistance, the improved version of VSC communicates with the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system. With EPS integrated, the improved VSC system is better able to predict the onset of vehicle control loss and adapt to driver input and vehicle behavior.
The RAV4 offers a wide range of standard comfort features, including air conditioning, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio and hands-free telephone controls, an AM/FM CD stereo with MP3/WMA playback capability, hands-free phone capability, phone book access, music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology, six speakers, a USB port with iPod connectivity, an auxiliary audio jack, cruise control, and outside temperature display.