Crash Test Rating
Source   NHTSA
MPG (up to)
22 -24 City / 27 -30 HWY
Horsepower
161
Seats
5
Front angle view.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle kat a
We love it - we looked for 5 years to find a small SUV this is roomy enough for broad shoulders
Small but roomy. Handles very nimbly. Gets good mileage.
accountCircle Donna H
I would buy another rav4 without any reservations.
My rav4 is 13 years old and has never caused any problems. The only things I have done are routine maintenance. I love sitting "up" so that I can see oncoming traffic. It also makes getting in and out a breeze. Gas mileage is good. I also like the trunk space in the back. It has hooks to hang grocery bags on so that they do not go rolling around.
accountCircle Kris D
I truly enjoy driving my car. The air conditioner in my car is wonderful.
I like that the trunk is spacious and flat. Perfect for delivering my wedding cakes. You can take half or all of the backseat out if you need the room. I think the quality of my RAV4 is lasting well. One thing I have noticed is that there is not enough room between the front and back seats to comfortably put a baby seat. The baby seat has to be in the middle or else the person in the front seat will be all scrunched up.
accountCircle Louis T
Perfect vehicle for around town and traveling. Reliable and gets good gas mileage. Comfortable for 2 adults and a medium sized dog.
It's reliable, comfortable, versatile and easy to drive.
accountCircle Regina C
It is a car that is safe and reliable and is the only car that I would own
I like it because it is a Toyota, it is fuel efficient, it is safe, and it is the only brand of car that I would ever purchase.
accountCircle Craig P
That it is 13 years old and does have some maintenance issues.
It is 13 years old so there are maintenance issues. I like the way it drives and it gets pretty good gas mileage. I like the 4 doors and the rear door feature.
accountCircle Brendan B
It's a Toyota. The only major issue in fourteen years is the Air Conditioning. We've had to replace it all. Other than that it's no more than standard maintenance.
Dependability. Toyotas are wonderfully manufactured vehicles. Change the oil, tires when necessary, wipers, that's about it
accountCircle Diana G
The most important thing others should know about my car is that it is my car and it is in good condition
The car was a used car which is what I like and dislike. I love that it is small but it has space

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jenna J
It has a good room of space but not that good.
It has problems like thing's dying fast and it is very useless when you are trying to go camping but in all it is always horrible because it is actually a very ugly model. It also burns up a lot during a long ride or even a short one like riding for an hour.
accountCircle Megan V
It has great gas mileage and is the perfect size for a small family.
I've recently put a lot of money into it. It's gotten me to and from places. I've had issues with the tires and have had to replace things several times.
accountCircle Alex T
Reliable car! Solid car!
The car runs really well, we bought it for like $3, 000 from an auction. It has never broken down, it is actually a really nice car. It is just old. But it works amazing in snow, sand, hills, etc. It just feels like such a nice and solid, good car. Very reliable. One window does not go up or down anymore so it is stuck being closed (the drive thru window:( ) seats are not super comfortable, but you get used to them. They're not too horrible. Otherwise, I would 100% recommend it. It is a great car.
accountCircle k w
It might not look pretty but it's very sound and in relatively good condition engine wise
I like that it's been good for over 13 years. I don't like that's its a 4 cylinder Wish it had updated amenities
accountCircle Dominique P
Toyota RAV4 is a great vehicle for the working adult.
I love my RAV4it is a great vehicle and very reliable. I haven't had any issues with the car and am completely satisfied with my vehicle. I have plenty of room for my family and whatever they bring as well as plenty of trunk space for purchases and storage.
accountCircle Sara B
Comfortable and roomy and is great on gas mileage.
It is good on gas but the transmission is not in the best of shape right now. It is pretty comfortable to drive around in and has plenty of room inside of it. The radio and speakers sound good but the bass does not sound good any higher than 3. The heat is very powerful and warms up the car fast.
accountCircle Alex G
Great Vehicle for a Small Family
It's a good car for what it is. I love the paint finish (Blizzard). The sunroof is a nice feature, as is the side open hatchback. My main issue with the vehicle is that it's become too small for our family. We are a family of four, and there are only four seats. As our children get bigger, it feels much more cramped. I definitely wouldn't recommend it for families of 4 or more, but for smaller numbers, it would be an excellent vehicle.
accountCircle Betsy S
Very reliable and efficient, I had a Toyota before the car I have now.
It is a older car so I didn't start having problems to recently. Drives nice, haven't had a lot of problems, no major problems, it has all been pretty minor issues.

Toyota RAV4 Models

Models also known as Trim Levels, are used to identify a vehicle's level of equipment or special features.

car
4dr Manual
161 HP 27-27 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Auto
161 HP 27-27 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Manual 4WD
161 HP 25-25 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Auto 4WD
161 HP 25-25 MPG 5 Seats
Photos may not match model

2005 Toyota RAV4 Owner Reviews

4.53
95 Reviews
close Write Review
5 stars 66%
4 stars 22%
3 stars 11%
2 stars 0%
1 star 1%
accountCircle Robert P on March 26, 2021
That it is simplest vehicle to repair and maintain. Never vehicles these days manufacturers are trying to make it difficult to do it yourself because they try to make it a business selling maintenance on the long run after selling you the vehicle new.
What I like about the vehicle is that it is simple and easy to repair/maintain, the rear seats are removable for more cargo space, and I have no major issues with the vehicle ever since I bought it new. Only complaint is the gas mileage is not as good as the newer vehicles.
accountCircle Rachel C on March 10, 2021
Its fits my family needs.
Nothing is wrong with my vehicle. It fits my family needs since we have 2 kids. I would buy another one

Pros from Owners

likeFilled Sophie V.

The Toyota RAV4 has a lot of good qualities. It drives very smooth. It has great mileage. It also is long lasting. It is not a big SUV which is really nice. Very reliable mode of transportation. LOVE IT.

likeFilled Gabby M.

It reliable, easy to drive, and safe. It does not have many mechanical issues, and Toyota is good about repairs and recalls. It is small enough to fit into small parking spots, but feels safe like driving an SUV.

likeFilled Nicole D.

Resilient. Good gas mileage. Good in inclement weather. Easy to drive. Compact. Automatic windows. Has lasted me for years and at almost 200,000 miles. Not big. For storage. Transmission has gone twice. Tire rod issues a few times.

likeFilled Kristin P.

It is still running at 200,000+ miles. I haven't had major problems with it, but has needed work to keep it going this long. The gas mileage is still decent. It has decent storage space in the back with the ability to put down/or remove the seats.

likeFilled Marj B.

Pros: size and gas mileage. Cons: unstable in high winds. Overall I love my truck and would not trade it for the world. I have gotten excellent value and hope my vehicle lasts another 15 years. There is no beating it.

likeFilled Ky C.

Reliable. Affordable parts. Easy maintenance. This car has been in my family for 14 years and has never had issues. Gets good mileage to the gallon. Operates excellently. Parts are always easy to find and are cheap. Would recommend this car.

likeFilled Gill O.

Some of the pros for this vehicle is that it is spacious. Therefore, it is great for traveling and also for long distance trips. There is a lot that you can pack and still have room in the car. Another feature that I really like about this car is that it is great on gas. I do not spend a lot of money when I put gas and it lasts me a while.

likeFilled Jessica H.

My rav4 is very reliable. It runs very smoothly, has lasted for a very long time (I have about 189,000 miles on it). It is great driving in snow and rain (I live in Colorado). I drive a lot for my job and I think that it does well driving 50 miles each day.

Cons from Owners

dislikeFilled Sophie V.

There are not as many cons and pros. The con would be because the car is 15 years old, there are parts that need to start being replaced. Some rusting but that is because it is kept parked outside. I think it is a great car.

dislikeFilled Gabby M.

As it is a 2005, some of the technology is dated. It still functions, but is older. Some of the electronics need to be replaced. While it does okay with gas mileage, it is not the best. It does not have 4WD, which is a problem living in the mountains.

dislikeFilled Nicole D.

Transmission went a few times. Tire. Rod issues a few times. Not big enough. It takes a while for. Heat to kick in. Car engine starting to sound loud like it is dying. I have no. Other cons to report on my Rav.

dislikeFilled Kristin P.

It is small for a family of 4. Fitting 2 adults and 2 car seats makes for a very tight fit. It is also loud in the interior when driving - it does not insulate from outside noises. I notice it while driving on the thruway.

dislikeFilled Marj B.

This vehicle seems to be unstable in high winds. The mileage also suffers when winds are high. Overall I am happy and feels safe while driving this SUV. There is no beating the value compared with others in the class and my SUV has held it is value well over the years.

dislikeFilled Ky C.

The only cons would just be age if the vehicle. Had a gas leak that was very easy and cheap to have fixed. Some light issues that were at most an annoyance. The pros really outway the cons with this vehicle.

dislikeFilled Gill O.

Some of the cons of my vehicle is that even though it is very spacious for travel, the seats are pretty small. It is supposed to fit a total of five people in the car, and the three seats in the back are a bit crammed together. If you have three people sitting in the back more than likely they will be feeling squished.

dislikeFilled Jessica H.

Now that I have 189,000 miles on it, my car technician said that the oil is burning faster, so I have to check the oil every week. There has been times where so much of the oil has been burned, that there is no oil on the dipstick. I just have to check it throughout the month and get oil changed frequently.

Ranks #3 Compact SUV by Owners

The 2005 Toyota RAV4 has an average owner rating of 4.53 out of 5 which ranks it #3 of 20 other Compact SUVs.

1
car
5
2
car
4.64
3
car
4.53

Ranks #5 Compact SUV by Fuel Economy

The 2005 Toyota RAV4 has a combined MPG of 30 which ranks it #5 of 20 other Compact SUVs.

1
car
38 MPG
2
car
35 MPG
5
car
30 MPG

Is The 2005 Toyota RAV4 A Good Car?

Yes the Toyota rav4 is a good vehicle. It is convenient, perfect size, and runs great. Also good for a small family.
Melody M.
Yes it is. It is 4 wheel. It is great. All is a great vehicle from me. It runs very good. No problems for me.
Edwatd G.
It is a wonderful vehicle. It is great in the snow for winter time perfect for snowboard trips. Great for camping can take out seats to fit everything you need.
Kyle M.
Yes it is a very good and reliable vehicle. It’s a bit outdated but still dependable and easy to maneuver
Nikki B.
It’s good! Very reliable, easy to navigate in. I do wish I had a sunroof, would be fun to have a sunroof and be able to get some sun and air.
Laura P.
Yes, easy on repairs and very reliable. Never an issue with it. Although I wish for a newer car, I can't complain. It's really been an inexpensive car to own.
Amy G.
Yes! I love my Toyota Rav4. It sits higher than a sedan, but is not a huge vehicle. I rarely have to take it in for repairs and is very reliable. It is comfortable, has space in the back to... Read More
Kip F.
Despite being 14 years old, this vehicle is very reliable. It always starts and get me to where I need. Other words, this car has an excellent engine. There are a few body issues normal for the car's... Read More
Ashley J.

How Reliable Is The 2005 Toyota RAV4?

Yes, Toyota rav4 is reliable. So far there has been no problems with the car. Just have to keep up with the usual car maintenance.
Melody M.
Not to have any problems. A could had a different car it is a good for me. No payment either. I like it a lot.
Edwatd G.
It is the most reliable car I have ever owned. Its get me everywhere I need to go without any issues. Rain, snow,ice it doesn't matter the car gets through it.
Kyle M.
Yea it is reliable. It has had issues with the engine and air bags. Which has been expensive to fix.
Rebecca T.
I've been very lucky and haven't had any problems with my car. I take it for maintenance every time it’s due and put premium gas .
Cj H.
None at all. I have never had repairs on it other than maintenance. It's been that reliable over the years and is almost to it's 15 year birthday.
Lisa F.
Yes it is. The car almost 20 years old, so there are your typical problems, but the car still runs well. I am careful to take it in for routine oil changes and routine maintenance which also helps... Read More
Brittany C.
The engine in this car is VERY reliable. This is saying a lot for an SUV of this age. The vehicle always starts and gets. Me to where I need to be in any weather with no worries.
Toni S.

Is The 2005 Toyota RAV4 A Good Value?

The Toyota rav4 cost around 20k to 21k. For a small family sized car like that yes it is a good value.
Melody M.
It is a good value. It is good. Alot nice features for me. I like the trim base for me and I like the 4 wheel.
Edwatd G.
It cost around 6500$ and its very worth it. Safe, reliable, and good on gas this car has everything.
Kyle M.
I do not know how much it costs now. It was a. Good value until the need to fix. It is ok now that the repairs have taken place
Kc T.
It's a great value. I'm not sure the current pricing since I bought my car 15 years ago. It's been a trooper and I how I get another 15 years out of it.
Maria L.
I paid a little over $5,000 for my Rav4, just last year. So far it has been a great value and I am very happy.
Clara J.
I paid $6900 for this vehicle primarily because it has no rust and only 120k miles. I consider this to be a fair value purchase.
Jerry S.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change the transmission fluid in a 2005 RAV4?

Answer: To change the transmission fluid You will want to first make sure the car is level on the ground and then pop the hood open. Now locate the transmission fluid container, it should be on or near the transmission...

2005 Toyota RAV4: What is the size of the trunk and cargo space?

Answer: The 2005 Toyota RAV4 has 29.2 cubic feet of room in the trunk with all seats in place. When You fold the rear seats down, it brings the total cargo volume up to 68.3 cubic feet. To lay the rear seats down, pull...

2005 Toyota RAV4: What is the oil type and capacity?

Answer: The 2005 Toyota RAV4 oil type and capacity iS5w30 and 4 quarts for the 2.4L inline-4 engine. Your oil needs to be replaced eventually. Every 5,000 to 10,000 miles is a good rule of thumb. If You don't replace...

How much oil does the 2005 Toyota RAV4 take?

Answer: The 2005 Toyota RAV4 has a 2.4 L 4Cylinder engine that needS4 quarts of oil with a filter. The recommended F-TYPEor the best performance iS5W-30 Synthetic. What the type means is that 5 is the thickness or the...

Does the 2005 Toyota RAV4 have a timing belt or chain?

Answer: The 2005 Toyota RAV4 2.4 i-4 motor does come equipped with a timing chain. From the year 1996 to 2000 the SUV used a timing belt and after that year made the switch to the timing chain. The reason for the...

Answers are provided by third parties. We do not guarantee accuracy of responses

Safety & Reliability

NHTSA Logo
NHTSA Crash Test

Overall

Front

Rollover

Not Rated

Side

*National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
IIHS Logo
IIHS Crash Test

Moderate Overlap Front

Side

Roof Strength

Not Rated

Driver-side Overlap Front

Not Rated
*Insurance Institute for Highway Safety