The 2009 Toyota RAV4 was yet another fantastic model built in the midst of its generation, this time in the third generation. It had very few drawbacks.
The vehicle’s primary engine was a V6 that could be switched out for a 4-cylinder. You were guaranteed to obtain a good fuel economy with either option.
The car’s manageable size contributed to its ease of movement in general. The model also included a number of safety measures and adaptable characteristics, including the choice between AWD and FWD and a capacity for 5 to 7 seats.
In This Article...
Which Toyota RAV4 model year is the most dependable?
Consumer Reports puts every new car on the market through a rigorous testing process. One of the greatest years to hunt for a used Toyota RAV4 SUV is 2017. This year has shown to be a smart buy with high reliability ratings. Although the owner satisfaction score for this year was only ordinary, it was higher than in previous and succeeding years.
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 has no issues with some of the reliability problematic spots, such as the engine, transmission, and drive system. The driving and styling were reportedly appreciated by owners. According to Consumer Reports, the Toyota SUV from this year is “among the most dependable small SUVs you can buy.”
What year of the RAV4 should you stay away from?
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.
Which Toyota RAV4 model years are the best used?
We advise taking 2017 and 2018 model years into account. Both of these vehicles are renowned for being solidly constructed, ideal for any lifestyle, and excellent for small families in particular.
Which RAV4 model is the best?
The advised specification The Hybrid XLE Premium, which has all-wheel drive as standard, is the best model of the group if you’re shopping for a brand-new 2022 Toyota RAV4. It only costs $1,150 more than a comparable non-hybrid XLE Premium with AWD and offers significantly higher fuel efficiency.
What model year Toyota RAV4 is having transmission issues?
Early RAV4s had issues that weren’t connected to the transmission. The company’s sole recall involved compatibility with aftermarket lamps.
Owners have, however, complained about excessive oil use and oil turning into sludge, which leads to engine failure.
Because the #10 fuse on one 1997 RAV4 routinely blows, the owner keeps a bag of ignition fuses with him. The car thus struggles to start and shift into gear.
Car Complaints reports that the ECU flaw didn’t recur in 2007. Unfortunately, there were further issues that year. The amount of consumer complaints is the greatest of any year for the RAV4.
Excessive oil consumption, engine failure, and oxygen sensor failure are a few of the reported issues. A quart of oil needs to be changed every 10 days, according to owners.
Car Complaints identifies 2008 as the worst model year, citing transmission issues, despite the fact that 2002 and 2007 received the most reports of problems. Occasionally at low miles, owners describe complete and unexpected transmission failure. Popular symptoms included violent jerking and slamming sounds when shifting into and out of forward and reverse gear.
Other RAV4s had subpar driveshafts, some of which required specialized replacements and installation that cost close to $1,000.
For the 2019 model year, transmission issues persisted. It’s still rather fresh even though there aren’t nearly as many complaints made about it. Owners complain about the transmission slipping, shifting harshly, and lurching slowly.
It’s vital to remember that the U241E automatic transmission was employed in the RAV4’s two-wheel layout throughout its second generation, which ran from 2001 to 2012. Additionally, these transmissions experienced issues with the forward gears not engaging. Slipping, inconsistent shifting, and a complete inability to choose a gear were among the symptoms.
How far can a RAV4 travel?
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.
Do Toyota RAV4 issues frequently arise?
Treat each one with caution even if this model year isn’t quite as awful as the others on the list. If you’re considering purchasing a model from this year, we advise thorough inspection. Numerous consumers have reported gearbox problems to Car Complaints, and the NHTSA has received hundreds of reports of fuel system faults. Although it might not apply to everyone, carefully review vehicle history reports.
Consumer Reports advises against purchasing the 2019 Toyota RAV4. With a dismal score of 2, reliability and owner satisfaction were rated equally. According to CR, the overall value, trunk space, road noise, and minor transmission problems are some of the greatest problem areas.
Is a RAV4 a good investment?
The Toyota RAV4 is a good SUV, however… The Toyota RAV4 is a capable small SUV, yes. The RAV4 has two rows of comfortable seats, a lot of safety technology, and a simple entertainment system. It also has a lot of cargo space. It also offers a comfortable ride and a powerful, fuel-efficient powertrain.
What is the Toyota RAV4’s problem?
There were 35 reports of gearbox issues made by RAV4 drivers as of December 2021. One customer claimed that after purchasing a 2019 RAV4 with 17,500 kilometers, he frequently experienced issues with the gears changing correctly. When this RAV4 owner brought his vehicle to a Toyota dealership, the problem was fixed with a software update. As vehicles do not become better with time, these kinds of software updates are frequently more of a band aid than a remedy.
Another driver complained that his RAV4 was lurching forward at slower speeds, making the on-ramp to the busy 10 highway unpredictable and perhaps dangerous. Shuttering and shaking were other prevalent concerns. He was informed that his vehicle was functioning as intended and that the dealership could not reproduce the problem.
There were reportedly six recalls for the 2019 RAV4 due to difficulties with the backup camera, separating suspension arms, and coolant leaks, among other things. Surprisingly, there were no transmission-related recalls.
Transmission issues with the 2019 Toyota RAV4 have been extensively reported. The 2020 RAV4 was expected to be an improved model, but there have already been far too many complaints and reports of unhappiness. The 2020 RAV4 has a number of concerns that drivers are having, some of which are listed below:
- Alignment and steering problems
- Transmission that is slow.
- Sometimes the brakes give out suddenly.
- Transmission Leaks
- The fuel gauge occasionally malfunctions and indicates that the tank is empty.
- Unsteady transmission.
No recalls have yet been issued as a result of the 2020 RAV4 transmission issues. But these are the recalls for the 2020 Toyota RAV4 as of April 2021:
- Select 2020 RAV4s have engine problems and coolant leaks, which led Toyota to conduct a recall and provide some RAV4 owners a free replacement engine and engine block.
- Toyota is offering to replace the steering columns in select 2020 RAV4s because they may have an influence on the airbags in them.
- Toyota has decided to replace the power steering gearboxes in a small number of 2020 RAV4s because they have issues with the electric power steering system.
- Toyota was compelled to replace the fuel pump assemblies in select 2020 RAVs because the fuel pumps in those vehicles have started to malfunction and create engine issues.
- Toyota has agreed to replace the front lower suspension arms on some 2020 RAV4s at no cost in order to restore their safety. These arms may have cracks in them.
Several sources claim that a software update that was issued on April 15, 2019, can fix the Toyota RAV4 transmission. However, other owners claimed that even after receiving updates from the Toyota dealership, the transmission issues persisted, and owners had to take their RAV4 to a dealership to get the update.
Which vehicle’s engine lasts the longest?
The Small Block V8 made its debut as a 4.7-liter in the 1955 Chevrolet Corvette (’58 model shown) and the significantly bigger Bel Air saloon. Thereafter, it was employed in many GM automobiles and trucks. Similar to the Ford Windsor, it is currently only available from GM as a “crate” engine that may be purchased to maintain an older vehicle. It is estimated that well over 100 million were produced overall.
What is the most advanced RAV4?
You may get amenities like simulated leather upholstery and a motorized driver’s seat with the XLE Premium trim. The price of this trim option is $29,500.
However, you also have a few package choices for further enhancements with the XLE Premium trim. The XLE Premium Weather Grade Package, which also includes heated front seats and a windshield wiper with rain sensing, is your first choice. You will have to pay $1,075 for this Weather Grade Package.
However, the Entune 3.0 Audio Plus Options Package, which costs $2,885, can be something to take into consideration if you’re searching for an improved infotainment system and a few extra safety features. You will also receive wireless device charging, rear cross-traffic braking, and low-speed collision warning in addition to the improved infotainment system.
The 2019 Toyota RAV4’s top trim level is the Limited. Price for this trim will start at $33,500. You can purchase extras like rear cross-traffic braking, heated front seats, a navigation system, and low-speed collision warning with this car.
The Limited Grade Weather Package and the Limited Grade Advanced Technology Package are available package choices for this trim. You can get heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and vented front seats by purchasing the $1,015 Weather Package. For $1,620, the Technology Package includes a 360-degree parking camera, a JBL audio system, and wireless device charging.
RAV4 LE or XLE: Which is superior?
The XLE trim option, which raises the standard model LE to a whole new level, provides a number of high-quality and practical enhancements for a reasonable price premium. The XLE gives you a more dynamic driving experience as you easily navigate the roughest terrain thanks to its all-wheel drive and sport-tuned suspension. While the fuel economy is unchanged from the LE model, the extras improve the driving experience. The XLE experience includes an eight-way power driver seat, a heated leather steering wheel, dual zone climate control, and a Smart key with push-button start. The XLE pushes the already excellent LE model ahead of the competition by adding features like a motorized sunroof option, projector LED headlights, and black roof rails, to mention a few.