2001 - 2005 Toyota RAV4 review

2001 - 2005 Toyota RAV4, Photo: Toyota Canada	The 2001-05 model is the second generation of Toyota RAV4 - one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market after hybrids. With its sleek sporty styling and great fuel economy, the RAV4 is a good choice if you need a small SUV. It's also proven to be one of the most reliable in its class. Available as two- or four-wheel drive, the RAV4 has car-based, unibody construction with transversely mounted 4-cylinder engine and a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. MacPherson struts in the front, double-wishbone with coil springs in the rear suspension. The RAV4 full-time 4WD system uses a viscous coupling center differential to distribute power to front and rear sets of wheels. When front wheels start slipping, more power is transferred to rear wheels and visa versa. Although this four-wheel drive system is not designed for heavy off-roading, it will offer you some advantage in bad weather. The interior is comfortable, although the rear seat space is limited and driver's seat feels small. Controls are conveniently located and easy to use. Rear door glass does not open separately as in Honda CR-V, but low cargo floor makes loading easier. Handling is good, ride is rather car-like, although driving over bumps will remind you that it's an SUV. Engine is a bit noisy and lacks highway passing power, but it's a tradeoff for better fuel economy.
2005 Toyota RAV4 interior. Photo: Toyota Canada
2005 Toyota RAV4. Photo: Toyota Canada

Engine

Strengths

- Sleek Styling
- Versatility
- Great fuel economy
- Good handling
- Fun to drive
- Built quality
- Reliability

Weaknesses

- Driver's seat is not very comfortable in a long run
- Cramped interior
- Rear hatch door glass doesn't open separately
- Lack of highway passing power
- Road noise, engine noise, rattles
Problems are rare, mostly minor, like squeaks and rattles, possible "check engine" light - nothing major.

Overall

If you are in the market for a small SUV, Toyota RAV4 is definitely worth considering. It has stylish look, versatile comfortable interior and it is one of the most economical in its class. Plus, is fun to drive, especially with 5-speed manual transmission, easy to maintain and it's unlikely to leave you stranded.
You may also look at the Honda CR-V, which likewise offers good reliability and fuel economy.

What to look for buying a used Toyota RAV4

Definitely check the used car history records to protect yourself from hidden problems, follow this link: How to check used car history
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
- Black soot in the exhaust or a smoke may indicate excessive oil consumption.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.
Consider an extended warranty to protect from unexpected repair costs.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint.
- If you live in the area with high humidity, rustproofing will help to protect the car body from corrosion.
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Check your tire pressure regularly, unequal tire pressure causes increased wear of 4WD system components.
- Change transmission fluid regularly using only original transmission fluid.
- Stick with original parts.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in the garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at one of those fast lube places; the vehicle must be on the lift.
Check more Car maintenance tips

2005 Toyota RAV4 short specifications

Links

If you are looking for Service Manual

If you want to find more technical information such as repair manual, check engine codes description, electrical diagram, diagnostic procedures, vacuum line diagram, fluid type, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, etc. follow this link: Where to find repair manual

by Vlad Samarin