Used Toyota RAV4: years to avoid and what to check

RAV4 years with known problems

2006–2008: the oil-burning 2.4L

Toyota's ZE7 program covered certain 2006–2008 RAV4s with the 2AZ four-cylinder engine (along with some Camry, Corolla and Scion models) for excessive oil consumption. Dealers ran an oil consumption test and replaced the pistons and rings if the engine failed. The program is over, so today it's on the buyer. The 3.5L V6 offered in those years isn't part of it.

What to check: ask how often it needs topping up between oil changes. Look for blue smoke on startup or under hard acceleration, and oily residue in the tailpipe. Receipts showing the ZE7 repair was done are a good sign.

2013–2018: the battery recall

Toyota said some replacement 12-volt batteries have smaller tops than the original. If the hold-down clamp isn't tightened correctly, the battery can move during hard turns and the positive terminal can touch the clamp and short. Dealers replace the hold-down clamp, battery tray and terminal cover free. If a recall check shows it's still open, get it done before you drive the car much.

2019–2020 RAV4 Hybrid: the tank that won't fill

Toyota acknowledged that the reshaped tank on 2019 and later RAV4 Hybrids could prevent a full refill by up to several gallons, and offered replacement tanks while noting that might not fully solve it. A lawsuit over the issue was settled. It doesn't affect safety, but if range matters to you, fill it up on the test drive and see how much it takes.

Which RAV4 years are safer bets?

Beyond the issues above, we didn't find a widespread engine or transmission defect of the same scale on later RAV4s in the sources we reviewed. That's a big part of why used RAV4s hold their value so well, and why sellers get away with high prices. A great reputation is also a reason fraudsters like the model, so the VIN check matters just as much.

What to check on any used RAV4

• Oil level and smoke (especially 2006–2008 four-cylinder models).
• Battery area: clamp tight and the recall done (2013–2018).
• Hybrid models: a hybrid system check at a Toyota dealer, plus how much fuel the tank takes.
• AWD: listen for clunks from the rear on tight turns.
• Underneath: rust on the subframe and suspension in salt-belt states and provinces.

Whatever the year, run the VIN before you go. Check the title history and the recall status in the US at nhtsa.gov/recalls, or in Canada with Transport Canada. Open recalls are fixed free at a dealer. Then check our Still covered? tracker for warranty extensions that might still apply.