2006 Toyota RAV4 Review: An Expensive Used SUV With Costly Mechanical Problems

Alex Showalter

Jul 8, 2022

The 2006 RAV4 only lasts around 150,000 miles with engine and steering problems. At $6,640 to $8,159, it’s a lot of money for an old SUV that has expensive parts that fail.

The Good

Interior materials are nice for the price, the V6 engine offers great power and the suspension is smooth.

The Bad

Passenger room is limited in the third row, there are more problems than other years and the cabin is noisy.

Is the 2006 Toyota RAV4 a Good Used SUV?

No, 2006 is a bad year for the RAV4. Owner reviews complain about some mechanical issues, small backseats, and basic technology.
Interior quality is good with a lot of soft-touch fabrics and leather, but the trim is rather basic and cheap.
Reliability ratings are below average. There are mechanical problems on 2005–2008 models, with improvements in 2009.
Performance is okay from the 4-cylinder, but the V6 is very powerful for a compact SUV.
The RAV4 is a very safe small SUV, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
Fuel economy is average, getting up to 24 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

Debra D

Reliability, roominess, great in bad weather, would get another

Absolutely love it. Bought it used and it's holding up well. Only standard maintenance needs to be done.

Hannah B

It does not get amazing gas mileage.

It is a reliable car. I have never had any unexpected issues with it. Is got a nice design and the acceleration is impressive. Great sound system.

Danielle B

It's got a ton of room for the size. The seats fold down flat, so you can pretty much out whatever you want it there.

I love everything about the Rav4. It's got so much room. The only downfall is that it's hard to drive if you're really tall.

Cheryl K

It is built well, runs great and is reliable! Love it!

I love how comfortable the seats are and also the amount of room in it! It's the best for traveling! There is a TON of trunk space because the tire is on the back of the vehicle.

Elise E

It is compact without feeling small. It is extremely reliable and has rarely had serious issues. It is also pretty cute and easy to park.

It is not super fancy and luxurious, but it will get you where you need to go reliably and is not ugly.

Patricia F

It is reliable. I have had no major issues with it.

I like that it is easy to get in and out of. I like to be able to transport large items. I feel safe in it and it has good mileage.

Judy K

When the alternator failed the engine kept running but the power steering failed. Difficult to maintain control of the vehicle with the steering out.

My vehicle has NO problems ! I drive my car many times each day, there has been no problems with my Toyota RAV4!

Donna B

Rav4 is a dependable midsize suv. Everyone who drives it, thinks it is a great car.

I love my rav4. It is cute, comfortable and reliable. II like toyota, and how they handle any problems that come up/

Negative Owner Reviews

Casey D

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.

Ivy B

Good as a couple, too small for family.

Car is too small for my family of four. It handles well and is reliable. It is comfortable. It is features are outdated, because it is an old car. Performance is solid especially I am the snow. The optional four wheel drive is especially helpful. I'll be looking for a larger car in the future.

teri h

So far it is dependable. Mostly happy with it.

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 dont work and parts are not available

Katie F

It's easy to drive and steer.

Does not have a loud car lock when I am looking for my car but it is also very spacious and comfortable inside.

Childs C

Very reliable despite lack of routine maintenance.

We got this car right before our first son was born. We bought it used in 2012. In full disclosure we are not the most proactive when it comes to routine maintenance. After our free oil changes from the dealership ended, my husband began changing the oil and haven't taken it in for any routine tune ups. We have had no major problems with the car. We are now looking for a new car as we’re expecting our 3 child and cannot fit 3 car seats in the back.

jessie p

It's got good gas mileage

I like that i am high off the ground and can see a lot. I have a lot of mileage which i don't like.

Amanda G

It is a very good car and will last a long time.

I love my car. I have a couple some problem but Its because Its old. But otherwise that it runs great. And I do a lot of driving.

Ashley C

This car is really the perfect size. Easy to park but holds a lot

It's reliable although this point it's getting old. It's sturdy and even though it looks small on the outside, it fits a lot of stuff.

What Do Critics Say About the RAV4?

Consumer Reports says the RAV4 is comfortable compared to rivals, and has average owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds gives the RAV4 a 4.6/5 liking the car-like driving feel, but disliking the cramped third row.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the RAV4 4.4/5 and enjoy the steering feel, but dislike some maintenance costs.

What Common Problems Does the 2006 Toyota RAV4 Have?

Common problems found on the 2006 RAV4 include excessive oil consumption, clunking noises while steering, and water leaking into the cabin.

Excessive oil consumption is the most common complaint from owners at around 115,000 miles. Toyota vehicles tend to consume more oil than other vehicles, but the RAV4 has a design problem making it worse. Replacing the pistons and rings fixes the problem for about $1,800.

Clunking noises while steering show up on a lot of RAV4s at around 60,000 miles. The intermediate steering shaft is the source of the problem, costing roughly $600 to replace.

Water leaking into the cabin is another frequent issue happening at around 65,000 miles. The cowl below the windshield is the source of the leak, and replacing it costs about $450.

There are 11 recalls, with the most serious being for the rear suspension tie rods, which increase the risk of an accident if they rust and fail.

How Long Will the 2006 Toyota RAV4 Last?

A properly maintained 2006 RAV4 should be able to last around 200,000 miles, which is 100,000 less than top competitors like the CR-V. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to rivals at $375 per year, according to Repair Pal.

Since most 2006 RAV4s will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items like the throttle body for $600, timing belt costing $650, and the brake master cylinder which costs $450.

M R

Absolutely reliable haven had any serious issues. Keep up with maintenance and this car will last you forever!

Christina B

It is very reliable and no thank god it does not have any problems I think for starters is a very good car.

Roberta L

Yes very reliable. As of right now I have no problems. Would consider getting another rav4. Had very few problems with this car.

Annie S

I have had to do a lot of fix ups, especially on the cylinders, and I have also had to replace my stereo because it went out.

Michelle E

YES... no problems... knock on wood! We only need to have routine maintenance done! I only wish it was newer.

How Much Is the 2006 Toyota RAV4 Worth?

Blue book values range from $6,640 to $8,159, making the 2006 RAV4 about $1,000 more expensive than a Ford Escape or Subaru Forester. When new, the price range was $20,300 to $25,870. Depreciation is better than average, only losing about 8% of its value per year.

What are the Different Models of the RAV4?

There are three models of the 2006 RAV4 available. Technology was just updated for 2006, with a refresh for the 2009 model year.

Base is the entry-level model with:

16-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Cruise Control
Power Windows & Locks
6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System

Sport is a step up, adding:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Sport Tuned Suspension
Painted Fenders

Limited is the flagship model and has:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Seating
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Power Driver’s Seat
6 Disc In-Dash CD Changer

Base

269 HP 25-25 MPG

View Details

Sport

269 HP 25-25 MPG

View Details

Limited

269 HP 25-25 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the RAV4?

The base engine is an average 2.4L-4-cylinder which makes 166 horsepower and gets up to 24 MPG combined.
An available upgrade is the powerful 3.5L V6 which has 269 horsepower and gets up to 22 MPG combined. Performance is good, taking 6.3 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the RAV4 Come In?

How Big Is the RAV4?

The 2006 Toyota RAV4 is an average compact SUV, similar in size to the Chevrolet Equinox and Jeep Liberty. It’s one of the only compact SUVs to offer a third row. Passenger room is good in the first and second rows, but the third row really only fits small children.

The cargo space is similar to rivals with 36.4 cubic feet of room behind the seats and expanding to 73 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

How Does the RAV4 Compare to the Competition?

The Honda CR-V is a popular competitor costing around $1,000 less. Technology is better in the CR-V, but the RAV4 offers a more spacious interior. We recommend the CR-V for 2006 since it’s more reliable, but the competition is much closer in other years.

The Ford Escape is another rival, which is about $1,500 cheaper. Off-road performance is better in the Escape, but the RAV4 has a higher-quality interior. We recommend the Escape for 2006, but the RAV4 usually wins in more reliable years.

Ranks #3 Compact SUV by Owners

2006 Honda CR-V

4.54

2006 Scion xA

4.52

2006 Toyota RAV4

4.41

Do Owners Recommend the Toyota RAV4?

M R

Yes, great gas mileage and for being a bigger car it does not feel as if I am driving a boat. Very comfortable but more importantly I feel very safe and protected driving it in. The four wheel drive is a great addition as well.

Christina B

Yes it is a really good vehicle to buy it runs good and very good has good seats and very comfy inside.

Roberta L

Yes I love it and it has held up great. Very little problems and repairs. Love my rav4. Will keep it until it runs completely down,

Annie S

The vehicle is very sturdy when on the highway and drives safe, it is also very spacious for big groups of people and dogs.

Anna A

Absolutely... I LOVE my car! It has been very reliable and very few repairs have been needed over the years!

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Linda F on March 28, 2021

It is awesome and has good gas mileage and drives very well

I love the storage capabilities. I do a farmers market and it is so easy to set it up. I love the gas mileage also. It is a very comfortable ride

Margaret W on March 21, 2021

Great car with a few problems.

I love the size of the RAV4. It does not have many special features like heated seats or a sunroof, but I like the simplicity. I have a few problems with how it runs. There is a hole in the muffler as well as an exhaust leak into the car. I do not know how common this is in other RAV4s, but these are a few of the problems I am dealing with. My RAV4 does not have good acceleration, which can be frustrating. The inside of the car is well put together and everything is easy to find.

Emily H on March 15, 2021

Very spacious! Large trunk! Great sound system!

The RAV4 is a great family car! Very spacious and has a large trunk! The only problem I have had so far is that my ac randomly stopped blowing cold air. Now it has been a very hot summer here and my husband says it is an easy fix of just recalibrating the ac!

Shay M on March 14, 2021

Overall, this car is reliable. Didn't have any issues until it hit 100k mark.

Since my vehicle hit the 100,000 mile mark, it has had lots of issues that needed repairing. I have spent over $2800 in repairs the past two years.

Debra D on March 12, 2021

Reliability, roominess, great in bad weather, would get another

Absolutely love it. Bought it used and it's holding up well. Only standard maintenance needs to be done.

Sarah B on March 9, 2021

Great all around vehicle!!

My car is so reliable! It does have a mystery rattle that usually requires a good cleaning by my husband, but other than that, it's done fantastic! Our next vehicles will ALL be Toyota

Skye W on March 6, 2021

Toyota rav4 details and features

It drives really well, high up so vision is good, comfortable seats, nice compartments to put personal items, lots of space, big back, seats pull down, entertainment system, multiple CD holders, movie player, moving seats, spare tire on back, sunglasses holder

Jo S on February 26, 2021

My rave has been very dependable over the 12 years of ownership.

My rave is now 12 years old and still has great pickup. I've had very few issues. It runs great. My only complaint would be a very poor turning radius.

Debbie N on February 20, 2021

Versatile and easy to drive!

Very reliable, good gas mileage, we use it to haul several items and to go skiing. We have driven it across country with a U-Haul trailer and it performed well.

Amy J on February 13, 2021

Great First Car: College Student's Commuter Car

Standard sports-SUV. Reliable in the winter months. Not great fuel efficiency, but pretty standard for an SUV. Has had consistent performance, even up to 150k+ miles. Has an AUX cord which was progressive for 2006 - AUX no longer works, but able to use Bluetooth attachment. Toyota is reliable when it comes to recalls, and any issues have been addressed in this particular model

Lisa S on February 7, 2021

Very reliable and comfortable

I have had my RAV4 for about 2 months now and I absolutely love it. It is very spacious for my 5 member family, has a lot of extra room for travel, and an all around comfortable ride. The RAV-4 has been has been very reliable in getting my family to the places we need to be.

Libby G on February 6, 2021

It is a dependable car that is lasted a long time with little maintenance.

My rav4 gets somewhat good gas mileage, and has great handling. The turning radius is the best I have ever had in a car that size, and it is stable in rough conditions. I live in a severe weather area so having good and reliable 4 wheel drive is important to me. I like the size, it is perfect for my needs.

jack h on February 5, 2021

Solid car, built to last. Has ample storage space. Reliable

Has really held up for a long time. It has over 150,000 miles and still going strong. It is a little loud

Amanda G on February 2, 2021

It is a very good car and will last a long time.

I love my car. I have a couple some problem but Its because Its old. But otherwise that it runs great. And I do a lot of driving.

Dennis K on February 1, 2021

Toyota is a great car. Easy to handle and is good on gas. It is a nice looking car too.

I love my car and it runs great. It handles perfectly, is great on gas and rides easy. Only problem is.... One of the sensors needs to be replaced. And this is the second time that has happened.

Jerry M on January 22, 2021

How dependable and well-built it is and how roomy it is.

I love the smooth V6 engine, how roomy and practical it is and how reliable it has been in spite of It's 133,000 miles. Clock is very hard to see. Front seats could be more supportive.

Muhammad T on January 20, 2021

It is a SUV meaning that is a Sports Utility Vehicle.

What I like about my vehicle is that I do not constantly worry about having to fix my car due to some unknown issue or worry about it breaking down. It has good seating and overall the fuel lasts for a good amount of time and also comes with necessary accessories. What I dislike is that it is easy to get scratched up and misses some features that would be nice to have included.

Elizabeth E on December 30, 2020

It is an oil burner. I have to replace the oil often.

It is very roomy. It does not have any mechanical problems.

Vikki S on December 16, 2020

That it runs great. Have not had to fix anything major on it. But I get my oil changes when I'm supposed to

I love the size of it.. Not too big not too small. Has enough storage space in back. Good gas mileage.

Cynthia W on December 9, 2020

Parking brake does not work.

I like that I can get into it easily. 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.

Leah T on December 6, 2020

Nice crossover that gives you bang for its buck.

Performs well. Some road noise but not as bad as other vehicles. Flip down seats are great, lots of storage. It is easy to do simple repairs on, if you are a day mechanic. It is managed to hold up well on the road. The mpg is awesome. I have also taken it up and down dirt roads, and onto the beach and it is done fantastic. The optional 4WD is great.

Lynn C on December 2, 2020

It's actually a Suzuki and it's awesome.

My car is actually a 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara, however there was no option for it or for other. I do love my car it's small enough (very similar to a Toyota RAV4) to fit in compact spaces with room to spare. Yet it is large enough to carry everything I've tried to put in it the last 11 yrs. I like it so much that I have put off getting a newer car. I've had very little wrong with it mechanically and it has cost me very little in maintenance. I plan on keeping my car for at least a couple more years before moving in to a much more computerized vehicle, which they all seem to be these days.

ryan T on November 26, 2020

It will last you a long time and a good value for the money

It has lasted me over 12 years with very little maintenance just regular oil changes

Maggie W on November 24, 2020

I love my RAV4 even though it has some problems.

I love my RAV4. It is the perfect size. I can easily fit 3 passengers without anyone getting squished. There is plenty of trunk space. The design is simple and everything in the vehicle is easy to find and understand. My only complaint is the few maintenance problems I have had to deal with in the past few years, including a hole in the muffler and an exhaust leak. There just always seems to be something. But I still love my grave and will drive it as long as I can.

Maggie W on November 19, 2020

It is the perfect size for everyone.

I like the size of my vehicle. I like how it is set up and how it does not have all the fancy bells and whistles of newer cars. I do not like how often I have to get it checked out for problems.

Mary T on November 9, 2020

Resale value is good than other cars.

Good vehicle you can buy. Comfort. Good safety features. Resale value than other models, good color. Easy to take care of. Good value and name in market.

Casey R on November 8, 2020

Great car with one minor inconvenience.

The rav4 has plenty of space for people. The back seats can be lowered if you need extra storage or if you are like me and want your animals to have plenty of space. The four doors make it easy to get people and things in and out of the vehicle. It runs very well and I expect it to last a long time as long as I continue the basic maintenance on it. The only problem I have had with it so far is a covering that came on top of the engine. When the oil gets changed if the workers are careless they get oil in this covering causing it to drip down the engine. Because of this dripping I have been warned three different times that my oil is leaking. There is no leak and I have had them remove the covering because it serves no purpose. I would recommend removing it as well if your rav4 comes with one.

McKenzie K on October 29, 2020

RAV4 is spacious and functional, while maintaining style

Comfortable, good gas mileage, has lasted me many years, acceleration is quick though not overly touchy, brakes are reliable and do not stick. I have not experienced mechanical problems with this vehicle, outside of regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance.

Amy L on October 27, 2020

Good car for a small family.

My vehicle has been reliable, and a good family car. It gets fairly good gas mileage. It has, however, had many recalls.

Wanda R on October 22, 2020

Toyota makes cars that are pretty maintenance-free and whose engines last a long time.

I love how well it maneuvers, the comfort inside and the easily accessible cargo area in the back. It gets fair gas mileage, but could be better.

Nancy B on October 14, 2020

Small SUV Big on Convenience

I bought my Rav 4 used. Best investment ever. It was very useful as it came with third row seating. Not much leg room but perfect for younger or short people. My car is also the Limited Series and came with the JBL speakers and this feature has totally spoiled me. Also at the time there was an option of 6 cylinders which is no longer available but helps tremendously in the mountains. All in all I am looking for another car and it definitely will be the RAV4.

Rocio A on October 7, 2020

It is very comfortable and it does not run . On a lot of gas so that means less money for gas.

It is a very good family car but it is very old. I enjoy the car and it wastes a little bit of gas which is very economic.

Cheryl K on October 5, 2020

It is built well, runs great and is reliable! Love it!

I love how comfortable the seats are and also the amount of room in it! It's the best for traveling! There is a TON of trunk space because the tire is on the back of the vehicle.

marcie J on October 4, 2020

It handles nicely, get good mileage and is fun to drive

I love this car. It has enough room to transport people and some stuff. The only thing i do not like is the that the back door open to the side. It would really help if it opened up like a hatchback type vehicle,

Mckenzie R on October 2, 2020

Toyota RAV4: Dependable and Convenient

My vehicle is extremely reliable. I have over 160,000 miles on my car and it continues to get me places safe. The seats are uncomfortable. The only problem I have is the sensor on the tire pressure is broken; it always says my tires are flat no matter what. I love that my vehicle is spacious but also can fit in compact parking spots.

Danielle B on September 15, 2020

It's got a ton of room for the size. The seats fold down flat, so you can pretty much out whatever you want it there.

I love everything about the Rav4. It's got so much room. The only downfall is that it's hard to drive if you're really tall.

Charm L on September 14, 2020

Fun to drive with little worries!

The RAV4 is fun to drive, easy handling, great gas mileage, lots of storage! The inside interior is easy to clean, love the side airbags in the back where my grandkids sit! The dealership is close by where it is easy to go get all my maintenance! The price is affordable!

Reagan B on September 13, 2020

The Rav4 Really Revs My Engine

I love my rav4. It gets up and goes when I need it to and there is plenty of space to transport everyone and everything that I need to. There are 3 rows of seats, and you can put the back row down so you have more room for stuff if you're going on a long road trip.

JJ F on August 29, 2020

Toyota Rav4's are easily the most durable cars on the market and provide everything you need (especially leg room in the back).

I love that it is durable and runs smoothly. I just like a car that gets me from point A to point B. It works, it continues after over 170,000 miles, and it holds a lot in the trunk.

Naomi S on August 14, 2020

SUV that's so cute you'll want to drive it and spend your life in it!

It's an suv. Mileage isn't great, but it's really cute. I love the amount of room in the vehicle.

Andrea I on August 13, 2020

It is functional and holds lots of stuff.

I like the limited maintenance. It is roomy. It is stylish. It is good for city or highway driving. I do not like that it does not get better mileage.

Shannon P on August 1, 2020

It's a cute style and the trick door opens from the side which is cool.

My car has a high center of balance in turn making it very tippy on turns. It also has a burning oil issue but other than that I love the space and drive feeling.

Jennifer T on July 28, 2020

Toyota RAV4 the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.

I love my 2006 Toyota RAV4. I have only had to do normal wear and tear type of repairs. This is the most reliable vehicle I have ever had. Currently my vehicle has over 150, 000 miles. I have never had a vehicle last this long and still feel secure and safe driving it.

Laurie P on July 28, 2020

It is very dependable and does not break down often

I like that is all wheel drive. I like that it has space to carry large items. I do not like that it consumes oil and it has a lot of road noise

Inez S on July 16, 2020

I love my Toyota! I have always had great performance and reliability.

This is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. I do have the sport model and it is has a bit more road noise than other models. It has a great turning radius, average on gas usage per mile, always reliable. I really like the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle and also the height of the vehicle which makes it easier for loading and unloading packages and kids. I love Toyota and the last 4 vehicles I have owned have been Toyota's.

Ashley C on July 8, 2020

This car is really the perfect size. Easy to park but holds a lot

It's reliable although this point it's getting old. It's sturdy and even though it looks small on the outside, it fits a lot of stuff.

Michelle P on June 28, 2020

It's the perfect size and driving it is comfortable

I love the size and comfort. I wish I got better gas mileage. Plus, the last couple of years things have started wearing out

Childs C on June 21, 2020

Very reliable despite lack of routine maintenance.

Susan H on June 18, 2020

Nothing. It's got a lot of miles on it too, but it's still going strong.

It's gas efficient. Smaller car that is just my size. Not bad.

Michelle I on June 10, 2020

My SUV has so much to do my antiques shopping.

My Rav4 is the most dependable vehicle I have ever owned. I bought it last year and it was a pre-owned vehicle. No accidents, 98,000 miles. There was an issues with the tires but the dealership took care of it before I even drove off the lot. I live in Massachusetts so the weather is always up in the air. Snow or rain, my Toyota has never let me down. My doin always wants to use my car.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.