RAV4 Years to Avoid: An Excellent CUV with a Few Problem Years

Apr 13, 2021

The RAV4 was Toyota’s best-selling SUV in 2020 — but it is not without fault. Check out what years of the RAV4 should be avoided.

2019 Toyota RAV4 - Photo by Toyota

The RAV4 is truly a trailblazer. It was the first-ever vehicle in a very competitive class, the compact crossover SUVs (CUV). Compact crossover SUVs offer the best of both worlds. They offer features found in most SUVs like larger cargo space, increased visibility, and four-wheel drive. As well as the handling and fuel economy of a compact car. The first looked like a rugged off-roader instead of a grocery-getter like the fourth and fifth generations, but we’ll get into that later.

While it used to stand for Recreational Activity Vehicle with 4-wheel drive, today RAV4 stands for Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4 Wheel Drive. Toyota used the marketing tactic of calling the RAV4 a “cute ute,” implying that it was an attractive utility vehicle.

Although the RAV4 was released in North America for the 1996 model year, it started much earlier as a phenomenal concept in 1989. There have been five generations of RAV4 with the most recent being the XA50. While the RAV4 is an excellent CUV, it still has its problems. However, if you know what to look for, you can avoid buying a dud.

1998 Toyota RAV4

First-generation RAV4 (1996-2000)

The first-generation RAV4 was released in 1995 and would end up in showrooms for the 1996 model year. The original RAV4 was very customizable. When buying a RAV4, buyers would have the choice between two- or four-door versions, FWD or AWD, as well as the option of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

However, all RAV4s shared the same 2.0l I4 engine which produced 120 hp. Its innovation did not go unnoticed, as it received the honors of being named the 1997 Automobile of the Year by Automobile Magazine.

First-generation RAV4: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Good Years: 1996-1997
Best Years: 1998-2000

Although the first-generation RAV4 had rugged looks, it didn’t have the safety to back it up. When the IIHS tested the RAV4 it got an overall marginal score.

Another problem for the original RAV4 was underinflating airbags, which it would later be recalled for in 2000. All in all, the first-generation RAV4 is reliable, reporting about 60 or fewer complaints on NHTSA for each year. It’s safe to say the only first-generation RAV4 that should be avoided is one that was not regularly maintained.

However, the 1998 model year and later seem to be the best because they offer seven more horsepower and have a quieter cabin. The convertible option got nixed in 2000. So, if you want to feel the wind in your hair, you’ll have to go with a 1998 or 1999 model year.

2001 Toyota RAV4

Second-generation RAV4 (2001-2005)

The second-generation RAV4 arrived for the 2001 model year. Similar to the last generation it shared components with the Corolla. However, it came with some significant changes, the most obvious being that it was longer, taller, and wider.

The increase in cabin space was fantastic, however, to compensate for the weight gain Toyota fit the RAV4 with a new 2.0l I4 engine, this one producing 148 hp.

Another glaring difference for the new RAV4 was that it was only offered in the four-door variant, ditching the previous sporty-looking two-door. Standard equipment for the RAV4 included antilock brakes (ABS), aluminum wheels, and air conditioning.

Similar to the last one, it offered drivers a five-speed automatic or four-speed manual transmission as well as FWD or AWD. It was also met with high praise from reviewers, receiving the Motor Trend 2001 SUV of the year.

Not only did the RAV4 prove to be successful with auto enthusiasts but it also proved to be successful with the ladies. A 2003-2004 survey found that it had the highest proportion of female drivers at its time.

Second-generation RAV4: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2001-2003
Best Years: 2004-2005

The second generation had a tough act to follow with respect to reliability. It seemed to follow suit with the safety rating, except the new RAV4 was failing a different test. The new RAV4 received an acceptable mark in the moderate front overlap, which was better than the previous marginal mark.

However, it now received the worst grade offered by the IIHS in the side crash test, a grade of poor.

However, for those who chose the optional side airbags in 2004, that mark would improve from the bottom of the class to the top with a grade of good. To make the RAV4 even safer, Toyota made their vehicle stability control (VSC) standard in 2004.

As for reliability, the RAV4 could simply not achieve the greatness of its predecessor. It received about 300 complaints for each model year as opposed to the previous 60, according to the NHTSA.

It seemed that the Achilles heel of the second-generation RAV4 was the automatic transmission which accounted for over 60% of the complaints. Also, the 2.0L I4 engine struggled with improper acceleration and had powertrain problems.

All in all, it just couldn’t match the reliability or safety of its successor. The later model RAV4s (2004-2005) boasted a larger engine, increased standard equipment, better reliability, and optional side airbags. So long as the airbags are replaced and it’s been properly maintained, the 2004-2005 RAV4s are a no-brainer.

2006 Toyota RAV4

Third-generation RAV4 (2006-2012)

The third-generation RAV4 came with several firsts. It was the first RAV4 to not be built on a platform that shared elements with the Corolla. Also, it was the first RAV4 equipped with an electronic power steering system (EPS).

Additionally, third-row seating and a new 269 hp V6 engine would now be optional on the RAV4.

Finally, this would also be the first RAV4 without an optional manual transmission. The four-cylinder engine received a four-speed transmission, and the six-cylinder was mated to a five-speed transmission.

However, Toyota kept the 166 hp 2.4l I4 as the standard engine for the RAV4. Similar to the last generation RAV4, it grew again offering a 21% larger cabin.

Third-generation RAV4: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2006-2008
Best Years: 2009-2012

The third-generation RAV4 proved to be the safest RAV4 yet. It received top marks in both the moderate front overlap and side test. Neither of the previous two had received a good in both of those categories.

Also, if you pick up a RAV4 that was released after the 2009 model year, it will come with the safer active headrest restraints. This brought the third-generation RAV4s head restraints and seats from a marginal to a good, jumping two levels.

Not only did the RAV4 receive good in three of the four categories, but it also earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick in 2009. The only real weakness for the third-generation RAV4 was the roof strength. This can be explained by the new larger dimension of the RAV4 making it harder to keep rigid in a crash.

As for the reliability of the new RAV4, it was greatly improved from the last generation. However, it had a rocky start, from 2006-2008 it received about 600 complaints per model year, reminiscent of the previous generation.

The steering shafts on most RAV4s were defective, accounting for nearly half of the complaints. While the engine complaints made up about 15% of the total and were due to the RAV4 burning excessive amounts of oil.

However, Toyota turned it around and cut the complaints in half for the 2009-2012 model years making them more reliable.

In short, not only were the 2009-2012 RAV4s more reliable, but they also had a better engine and better safety features than their predecessor.

2017 Toyota RAV4 - Photo by Toyota

Fourth-generation RAV4 (2013-2018)

The fourth-generation came with even more changes than the last. It was the first RAV4 with a lift gate instead of a side-opening rear, as well as the first generation to lose the signature rear-mounted spare tire. They took away the 3.5L V6 and replaced it with a 2.5L I4 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

In this grand “improvement”, they lost nearly 100 hp and only found four more mpg. Going back to the first- and second-generation roots, this RAV4 shrunk down in size.

Standard equipment for the fourth-generation RAV4 included automatic headlights, power-folding mirrors, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a reclining second-row seat, a backup camera, and Bluetooth.

Fourth-generation RAV4: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Good Years: 2013-2015
Best Years: 2016-2018

The RAV4 earned IIHS Top Safety Picks for the 2013, 2015, and 2018 model years. For 2016 and 2017 it received even higher marks from the IIHS with a Top Safety Pick+.

For the 2013-2014 model years, the RAV4 struggled with the small overlap front tests on both the drivers and passenger side. This tests the vehicle on how it would protect the occupants if it hit something head-on but slightly to the driver or passenger side.

Toyota fixed this in 2015 making the RAV4 jump from a poor to a good mark in the small overlap test for the driver. However, they never cared to strengthen the passenger side, so all model years received a poor score for the passenger-side small overlap front test.

The fourth-generation RAV4 managed to get even more reliable than the previous generation with an average of about 140 complaints per model year. It seems that the only complaint that showed up repeatedly for this RAV4 was that the radio would shut off and reset randomly.

Luckily this is a relatively cheap fix as compared to the problems of previous generations, so when it comes to reliability, this RAV4 assumes the same posture as the original first-gen. It’s worth noting that the 2016-2018 model years are the best for this generation of RAV4. This is because they received a much-needed facelift, and they were safer in the small overlap front test on the driver’s side.

2019 Toyota RAV4

Fifth-generation RAV4 (2019-Present)

The fifth-generation RAV4 was released for the 2019 model year and shared its platform with the Camry and Avalon. The new RAV4 got a 2.5L I4 engine that produces 203 hp. This new engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Couple these upgrades with a lighter curb weight and the RAV4 got more economical with a combined mpg of 30.

The RAV4 comes with FWD standard on all trim levels not including the Adventure which gets standard AWD. The RAV4 has two different AWD systems, the LE and the XLE get a standard AWD system.

Whereas the Adventure and the Limited receive an upgraded system with a torque-vectoring system. This can enhance traction on slippy surfaces such as dirt or snow.

Fifth-generation RAV4: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Good Years: 2019-Present

The new RAV4 does come with some problems, the 2019 model had over 350 complaints. While most of the problems vary by user experience, there are two common problems. The biggest problem is that the fuel tank does not fill up all the way, leaving space for three more gallons. Though this is no longer a problem as Toyota issued a recall and fixed it.

Also, some owners say the battery drains while the car is parked. However, fear not because the new RAV4 has had seven recalls so most of these common problems should be fixed.

The new RAV4 is by far the safest RAV4 thus far. It received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ in 2019 and an IIHS Top Safety Pick in 2020. Although it scored top marks nearly across the board the RAV4 struggled with its headlights.

Ironically, the expensive Hybrid XLE, XSE, and Limited trims headlights scored the lowest mark by the IIHS.

Whereas, the gas-only trims headlights all scored one better with a mark of marginal. Perhaps the strangest result is that the Hybrid LE trim, the cheapest of all hybrid trims scored better than the higher-level hybrid trims.

Although the new RAV4 should not be avoided altogether, with seven recalls buyers should be cautious when purchasing one.

2020 Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4: Excellent Choice for Safety & Reliability

As Toyota has proved time and time again with the RAV4, safety and reliability are the keystone of their brand. While almost all RAV4s would make a great buy, there are some worth avoiding. The 2006-2008 model years should be avoided because of their lack of reliability, lousy engine, and lack of safety measures.

Also, the 2001-2003 models should be left alone because of their faulty automatic transmissions. The good news is that there are several other great options from each generation.

So, if you’re in the market for a new RAV4, begin your search right here at Vehicle History.

Cheat Sheet

Toyota RAV4: Model Years to Avoid

2006-2008: Third-generation RAV4
2001-2003: Second-generation RAV4

Toyota RAV4: Model Years that Have Some Problems (But are OK for the Right Price)

2019-Present: Fifth-generation RAV4
2013-2015: Fourth-generation RAV4
1996-1997: First-generation RAV4

Toyota RAV4: Model Years that are Best Buys

2016-2018: Fourth-generation RAV4
2009-2012: Third-generation RAV4
2004-2005: Second-generation RAV4
1998-2000: First-generation RAV4

Photos: Toyota

Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 26, 2022

What year RAV4 is most reliable?

Based on the reviews from owners and experts it seems that the 2009 through 2012 Rav4 scores the highest in terms of overall reliability. These were good years for Toyota and they were making great reliable engines that were available in the Rav4. These are also some of the last years for the third generation which was produced from 2005 through 2012.

If you are looking for something newer, or cannot find any good 2009-2012 with low miles then 2016 through 2018 are great choices. These are the final years of the fourth generation and they had a facelift in 2015 that made them look much more modern and up to date. These can be found with much lower miles than the earlier years as well.

If you want the latest Rav4 then you will need to go with a 2019 or newer since that was the last time that they were redesigned. 2019 and newer has all of the latest technology from Toyota as well in them.

Are there problems with Toyota RAV4?

The most common complaint across all the generations of the Toyota Rav4 is that there are problems with the EVAP canister. This has been known to get clogged and fail and the only way to get it all working again is to replace it with a new unit. This is fairly common across most of the Toyota models that use the 4 cylinder engine like the Rav4.

The next most common problem is that there are a lot of reports of the oxygen sensors failing early. This is also a widespread problem across most of the Toyota lineup. This usually happens because Toyota tends to run their engines a bit rich and it can cause extra wear to the sensors.

The final common problem with the Rav4 is that at high mileages the transmissions begin to wear out. This happens to nearly every car as the gears do get worn out over hundreds of thousands of miles of use.

How many miles will a RAV4 last?

A Toyota Rav4 should have no problem lasting 200,000 to 250,000 miles as long as you take care of the vehicle. This is pretty standard for most Toyota vehicles since they are known to be some of the longest-lasting and most reliable cars that are on the road. There are still first-generation Toyota Rav4s that are driving around with over 400,000 miles on them.

If you want your vehicle to last a long time there's no real secret to it, all you need to do is take care of it. Do the simple things like changing the oil, changing the coolant, and changing the transmission fluid. These things all add up and help your car last a lot longer than if you defer the maintenance.

If you have a higher mileage Rav4 it is a good idea to have a mechanic inspect it at least once a year. This allows them to see if any components are wearing out so you can replace them before they fail.

Owner Reviews

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Michael P. on April 1, 2023

Stay away from Toyota 2001 RAV 4he floor hook

I had this RAV 4 since 2001 and had two recalls due to engine/computer moduIe PROBLEMS along with ECM replacement, due to three S.U.A. (Sudden Unintended Acceleration) occurences. Two SUA's occured while waiting for the traffic light to turn green, motor RPM needle shot up to 5 RPM unexpectedly while I literally had my foot on the brake pedal almost to the floor to prevent the Rav 4 from shooting onto cross traffic, had to quickly shift to neutral which stopped the RPM fury. Occured again in 2019, at a stop light, this time RPM Needle shot up to 6 so fast I had little time to shift to neutral and rear ended (coincidently) a similar 2001 RAV 4 in front of me at the stop light... Called Toyota Corp in Torrance, CA and they immediatly sent a third party inspector to meet me at Toyota Repair Facility for no cost to me inspection. I wasn't allowed to watch the inspection which took 5 hours, nor allowed to see actual report of findings that was submitted to the legal dept. At Toyota. After numerous requests a letter was sent to me stating no recordings from black box were entered other then acceleration pedal needed adjustment (while waiting at the stop light?) and that the floor carpet might have interfered with the acceleration pedal/RPM? (at the stop light?) the carpet was fastened securely with the floor hook with no interference with pedals. Besides the defective 2001 RAV 4's with their dangerous sudden unintended acceleration problem, would I buy a newer model? Most likely not. I requested the inspector's report so I could hire an inspector to examine the ravv4 computer black box module, the Toyota Legal Dept refused.. The RAV 4 RPM incident with the S.U.A. Problem occured two more times at the same drive thru bank ATM location. My friend's fiance's mother had a Camry with same SUA problem, she immediately sold it.

Scottie on June 28, 2022

RAV4 are overrated

Have 2018 RAV4 Limited AWD under 24K miles. Gets an average of 16.5 mpg city, rarely driven on Highway. Winter averages 15.4 mpg. OEM Toyo Open Country A20 are cheap quality tires as they dry rotted with plenty of good tread remaining. Asian and Japanese do not know how to make a good tire. Replaced with Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3. Very poor fuel mileage, too small of a rear/ back window, safety features are gimmicks, rear passenger seats are uncomfortable, exhaust system rusts prematurely. 4 cylinder engine is not powerful enough for this size vehicle only to be used in subcompact vehicles. RAV4 should be built with V6 or V8 engines. Toyota quality and workmanship makes their brand one to avoid. I was considering the Honda CR-V and should have purchased that over the RAV4.

Paul T on June 6, 2022

2005 (Mk2). I'm tempting fate but...

...original exhaust (130,000 miles). New clutch 50,000 ago. ...never need to top up oil between yearly services - it's always is up to the mark and as fresh as a daisy (if daisies were golden and clear) ...great to drive - and very comfy. Enough poke, though I oughtn't drive it like it was my old MX5 (I miss the snappy gearchanges!) ...still looks fun (unlike the mk3/4) - probably as it's a 3dr ...tempted to buy a mk1 when it finally gives up the ghost

John A on June 15, 2021

Oil consumption is awful in the 2007 Toyota RAV4.

After about a month I had to add oil to it. I didn't think anything of it until the following week I had to add more. Every week since I have to add a quart a week. The piston rings were bad on the type of engine I had. I contacted Toyota and they said I was past my date to have them fix it. I still owe a lot on this car and I either have it fixed for a fortune or add a quart of oil per week.

Cassidy G on June 15, 2021

Used 2007 RAV4: disappointing reliability.

In the first 3 months of ownership I have had 2 significant problems with it (sunroof shattered, needed a new o2 sensor, and the coolant pipe came loose, causing all the coolant to leak out and the engine to overheat). So a low score on reliability! It also gets poor gas mileage. I live in the Rockies in co, and the 4 cylinder engine struggles to get the car over the steep mountain passes.

Terry S on June 15, 2021

I do not like the car at all really the only nice thing is the space.

Had no problems and then all of a sudden when pulling out after a stop sign my engine revs super high like 5, 000 rpms before shifting into gear. It is extremely slow when trying to gain speed it literally will sit at about 2,000 rpms and if you give it anymore gas it shoots up to nearly 4,000. The more I have this car the more I wish I didn't own it. Very unsatisfied with it overall.

Maria G on June 15, 2021

2003 Toyota RAV4 transmission issues.

I bought it used in 2017. About 3 months in, the transmission became faulty. It became really loud and started vibrating too much. So I took the car in to the mechanic around march 2017– didn't get my car back until July 2017. Really wasted time and the mechanic didn't want to give my car back because there was still work needed. The car sounds the same and keeps vibrating a lot.

Jason Holden on June 15, 2021

Thought they the 2001 Rav4 was good.

Purchased rav4 for the wife. Great little car to drive beside no cruise control. Anyhow 3days in and oil light on then seized cam. Ok second motor not even 300k and oil light on. Not seized but metal fragments in sump. Replaced under warranty and just fitted motor, got it running and won’t idle atm. I tell you I was going to scrap the car. I have lost all confidence in it.

Cameron on April 24, 2022

2020 TRD Rav4 & 2006 limited

Have 8k on the 2020 so far & all I can say it's great with no problems 😊 The 06' rav4 has been a great car too it has 185000k on it but is starting to use some oil in between oil changes..The best cars suv/crossovers I've ever owned. I did get a 2014 jeep wrangler thought it would be fun..I'm still kicking myself too..

Robert M on June 15, 2021

2001 Toyota RAV4 has transmission problems.

The transmission feels terrible and I don't feel confident that it won't leave me stranded. It handles very well for a small SUV, better than most cars. The fuel mileage is awful and is very expensive to drive for a vehicle if it's size. I wish I would have gotten the 4 wheel drive version of this vehicle.

Emily S on June 15, 2021

2007 Toyota RAV4 could be better.

I have never experienced many major problems besides the axel being a bit squeaky (loose screws by tires, small things) but that is mostly because of the road conditions that the car is put on. Rough winters and patchy roads. No Bluetooth. It doesn't have super gas mileage that's a negative to this car.

Megan P on June 15, 2021

The pros outweigh the cons in the 2007 Toyota RAV4.

I really like the size of the car- it is a perfect height, it is roomy inside, and the trunk is huge. The AC and heat also work great. I think the sound system is really good, and the bass is nice. I will mention that I have already needed a new transmission and breaks in the about 4 years I've had it.

Casey D on June 15, 2021

2006 Toyota RAV4 Limited lasts long for how old it is.

Reliable, but does have several issues with struts. The engine is loud compared to many vehicles. Gas mileage is ok. Does not speed up very well. Have had to put a lot of money into it, but it is old. The ac smells weird when not used for awhile. Tons of trunk space. Good for small family.

Melissa W on June 15, 2021

The problems with my 2006 Toyota RAV4. I bought it used.

The vehicle has had lots of recalls. It feels like every time I turn around that I am getting another recall notice in the mail. The drivers side visor is broken and will fall in my face while I'm driving. Also the thermostat knob is broken and won't fully turn to the vent only setting.

Debbie M on June 15, 2021

2007 Toyota RAV4 is heavy on gasoline.

It is too big and hard to see out of the back. It makes gurgling noises from the engine which I haven't been able to fix. It rides well though. I had to flush the transmission and replace the alternator. It has a sunroof, which is nice. It’s heavy on the gasoline.

Kent on November 27, 2021

2000 Rav4

I love my 2000 RAV4. Recently replaced the timing belt and struts. Other than that (besides burning a little bit of oil) it has always run like a top. Owner sense 2010 and only 136.000 miles on it. Oh… cd player broke down soon after I got it but no big deal.

Mia S on June 15, 2021

2001 Rav4 is a pretty good first car.

For a first car, it is lasting (running for 18 years and still going). Interior is polyester which is subjected to staining but is very comfortable and does not adjust with the temperature. Has had several transmission issues in a short time period.

Douglas Rinella on November 18, 2021

2009 RAV4 V6 Limited AWD

Hit 180K miles this week, have owned car since new, wife's wheels, no kids, garaged 99%. Best car we have ever owned, a few recalls, replaced water pump at 100K. Gets about 25 mpg most of the time. Wife complains about the road noise. Peppy engine.

John A on June 15, 2021

2003 Toyota rav4. I like my rav4. It is a nice, safe family vehicle.

The car does not have a lot of power, but I associate that with the fact that it is an older vehicle with approximately 154,000 miles. Also for a small vehicle with a 4 cylinder engine the gas mileage is bad. It gets under 20 miles per gallon.

tammy on January 29, 2022

2019 Rav

Best vehicle I have ever owned. I have not had one problem with my Rav. It runs great,very comfortable, rides smooth, and great gas mileage. This is my first Rav and I will never own another vehicle. I love my Rav.

Nathaniel S on June 15, 2021

Too many recalls makes me feel as if the 2006 Toyota RAV4 is unsafe and wasn't truthfully tested before it was released to the public for purchase.

The vehicle has had too many recalls in the last ten years. Besides that the Toyota is reliable when it comes to gas mileage and repairs. Haven't had to spend much on repairs in the last twelve years.

Richard Williams on December 27, 2021

Owner 2017 Rav4 Hybrid

Bought with1,825 miles on the vehicle, safest car we have ever driven. Four years of driving and only oil changes are regular intervals. (and tire low warnings between oil changes) 33 MPG constantly

Teri H on June 15, 2021

Mostly happy with the 2006 Toyota RAV4.

I like the way it drives. The control (defrost, feet,) has given me a problem. Can't change settings, have had it in numerous times to fix, the vanity lights don't work and parts are not available

Lindsay L on June 15, 2021

My 2006 Rav4 has lasted over 200,000 miles

Transmission problems. All the lights go on. It'll be very expensive to fix. I am going to have to get a new car because of this. Besides that there hasn't been any issues that I can remember.

David D on June 15, 2021

My trustworthy navy blue 2003 Rav4.

The car is very comfortable and is a good size. The seats have cloth and are not hard. It does not have a lot of horsepower nor does it accelerate very fast. It burns up gas fairly quickly.

Christina T on June 15, 2021

2003 Toyota RAV4 brakes going out.

My brakes are on the verge of going out, while braking the loud squeaking noise will turn heads. The car almost did not pass smog, this past year. Air filters need to be replaced as well.

Leah R on June 15, 2021

The adventures of pippin the rust-bucket aka my 2003 Toyota RAV4.

This car gets me where I need to go. I LOVE Toyotas in general but this one is old and has so many miles on it, it's no longer my baby and now, just a rust bucket that mostly works.

Hope P on June 15, 2021

2002 Toyota RAV4 is old and still works and running.

Poor mileage. I have no ac my ac condenser was punctured. I need to replace all fuel injectors and replace my power steering pump. I have an oil leak. I just replaced my radiator.

Rob legate on June 15, 2021

07 & 08 Rav4s were the cheapening years to keep the price down and beat GM sales.

Great car but exhaust and wheels rusted out air bag issue computer turning rear awd on and off. Buggy rav and pinion fails 3k$ repair. Make sure it's all been done before you buy.

Cynthia W on June 15, 2021

2006 Toyota RAV4 has a lot of recalls.

The car had a lot of problems the first 7 years (that was covered under the extended warranty). Also a lot of manufacturer recalls on it. Parking brake does not work.

Nate M on June 15, 2021

2003 Toyota RAV4 is old and very hard to drive because of a bad suspension.

The Toyota RAV4 is a good vehicle just not mine because of how old it is! Water damage has it rusted out but I wouldn't mind having a newer version of the RAV4.

Michael on March 23, 2022

2009 RAV4 4 cylinderJapan build

Just broke 100,000 miles. Live in the Northeast. I believe the muffler is about to give up for the first time. I have owned since new. No complaints.

Pam Michaelson on December 2, 2021

Pamm215@gmail.com

My 2006 Rav4 LTD, purchased new, has been a joy. It died last week in Nov. 2021 after giving me over 215,0000 happy miles. I'll really miss my car.

VP S on June 15, 2021

L2002 Toyota RAV4 electronics problems causes engine to be unreliable.

The vehicle has been durable and easy to drive. However, the electronics is not very reliable. Automatic transmission also could be better.

Mary M on June 15, 2021

The 2002 Toyota RAV4 has been reliable.

Has been reliable yet light weight and not good in snow and inclement weather. Somewhat comfortable. The 2002 model is ok. Nothing fancy.

Charlotte on June 15, 2021

2008 Toyota RAV4 with oil leak.

I bought a 2008 rav4 in 2018 and I love it. But not that it hit 118,000 miles the oil dropping faster than the gas I put in.

Shawn C on October 18, 2022

2000 Rav 4. OG clutch went 250k miles

Most reliable car I've ever owned. Manual tranny is still going strong. Interior is solid after all these years.

Alexa M on June 15, 2021

Currently I own a 2001 Toyota RAV4, and it is okay.

When it is in park or when my foot is on the brake, it makes weird noises and "jumps".

Tony on December 19, 2021

2019 RAV4 Earn worst model year of RAV4 distinction

From carcomplaint.com https://www.carcomplaints.com/Toyota/RAV4/

Austin Kinney

Austin M. Kinney’s auto coverage can be found on popular sites like DriveTribe and Vehicle History. When he’s not busy writing about cars, he can be found hosting videos on his popular automotive YouTube channel, Kinney’s Reviews, which has grown to garner over 4,000 monthly views, and his writings have been viewed over 200,000 times.