Changed and power unit- instead of the old 2- and 2.4-liter engines, a new two-liter engine from Avensis appeared with a progressive Valvematic system, and a 4-speed automatic transmission replaced the CVT. However, the extended version of Long, until the change of generations, was sold with the old exterior design, 2.4 engine and automatic transmission.
Offer on the market
Despite the fact that the third Toyota generation RAV4 did not live as freely on the Russian market as the first two, and had to compete with other crossovers (including Nissan Qashqai), there are a lot of cars on the secondary market. Therefore, there is no need to cling to a specific instance when searching for a car - there are plenty of options. Traditionally, the machines of the first and last year release is less than 2007-2011. In 2006, old stocks of the predecessor were sold off, and in 2012, buyers were waiting for the fourth generation. As for the bodies, the extended version with three rows of seats, which debuted in 2009, did not gain much popularity. In the supply structure there are only 7% of them. The remaining 93% are standard wheelbase vehicles. Among engines, the undisputed leader is the old two-liter (152 hp). In combination with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it is installed on 43% of cars, and with a 5-speed manual transmission - on 10%.17.11.2016
Toyota RAV4– one of the most popular crossovers for many years, it combines convenience, practicality and utilitarian style. This japanese car is a trendsetter in its segment, and its third generation did not leave even the most skeptical car enthusiasts indifferent. The previous two generations of Toyota Rav 4 have gained a reputation as reliable and unpretentious cars, but now we’ll try to find out how things are with reliability in the third generation, and what to look for when buying a car older than 5 years.
A little history:
The third generation of Toyota Rav 4 has been produced since 2006, the car is presented in two modifications, a version with a short wheelbase was produced for Europe and Asia, and a long one for North America. The third generation of the crossover has become a little larger than its predecessor, a new transmission with a multi-plate clutch has appeared in the drive rear wheels. Also, starting from the third generation, the three-door version of the crossover was discontinued. A seven-seat version was also available in some markets, which in Japan was sold as separate model"Toyota Vanguard (Toyota Vanguard)."
In 2008, the first restyling was carried out, as a result of which the car received a slightly changed appearance, and in the American market, instead of the 2.4 engine, they began to offer the 2.5 engine (180 hp). In the same year, the two-liter unit was also modernized, it had a variable valve timing system, and output increased to 158 hp. After restyling, official deliveries of versions with an extended wheelbase were established in most CIS countries. The 2010 restyling was more focused on changing the car's appearance, improving functionality and safety. Instead of a four-speed automatic, they began to install a CVT, and a five-speed manual was replaced by a more modern six-speed transmission. In the same year, official deliveries of cars with a modernized 2.0 engine (158 hp) began. The Toyota Rav 4 premiered at the Los Angeles Motor Show at the end of November 2012
Weaknesses of the third generation Toyota Rav 4 with mileage
Toyota Rav 4 was equipped with the following power units - gasoline 2.0 (152, 158 hp), 2.4 (170 hp) 3.5 (269 hp); diesel 2.2 (136, 150 and 177 hp). On secondary market The most widely used two petrol engines are 2.0 and 2.4 liters, diesel cars very rare for our market. The 2.4 engine is more aimed at the American market and does not tolerate high-octane fuel, so many mechanics recommend filling it only with 92-octane gasoline. The timing drive of both cars is chain, the service life of the chain and tensioner is about 200,000 km. Drive belt attachments requires replacement every 100,000 km.
After 150,000 km, gasoline engines begin to eat up oil; this problem can only be solved by replacing piston rings. If the engine begins to lose power or runs rough idle speed, try cleaning the fuel injectors, this will most likely solve the problem. At a mileage of 150,000 km, the pump begins to leak, and if this is not taken care of, there is a high probability of the engine overheating. Also, in order not to overheat the engine, you should flush the radiator at least once a year. Otherwise, the engines are quite reliable and, with proper maintenance, will last 300-350 thousand km without problems.
Transmission
Until 2010, the Toyota Rav 4 was equipped with a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. Later, the manufacturer replaced the automatic transmission with a CVT, and instead of a five-speed manual, they began installing a new six-speed manual transmission. Many fans of Rav 4 equipped with an automatic transmission were very disappointed with this replacement, since the automatic transmission did not cause any problems to its owners over the course of 300,000 km. The variator cannot be called unreliable, but still, it is not as long-lived as an automatic; the service life of the variator does not exceed 200,000 km. To extend service lines automatic transmission, many owners recommend changing the oil in it at least once every 60,000 km; failure to change the oil in a timely manner significantly reduces the service life of the box. Therefore, before buying a used car with an automatic transmission, make sure that the former owner changes the oil in a timely manner, otherwise, in the future, you may encounter serious problems. First of all, shocks appear when switching from first to second, then the hydraulic compensators will need to be replaced.
The mechanics are also quite reliable, but sometimes, at runs over 150,000 km, the first and second gears may begin to jam (replacement of synchronizers is required). As for the clutch, with careful operation it will last 100-120 thousand km. a common problem, both for automatic and manual transmissions - leakage of axle shaft seals.
All-wheel drive in all Toyota Rav 4, as on most SUVs, is connected via an electromagnetic clutch. Only used on hard surfaces front-wheel drive car, but at the slightest slip, the system automatically connects rear drive. On all-wheel drive vehicles, the oil in the rear differential needs to be changed (at least once every 40,000 km; neglect of these requirements leads to failure of the rear axle; replacing the clutch will cost 2,000 USD). If the previous owner rarely changed the oil, then when rear-wheel drive is connected, the differential will hum.
Chassis of the third generation Toyota Rav 4 with mileage
Toyota Rav 4 has the best handling among its competitors, and for this you have to pay for comfort; the suspension is quite rigid, because of this, even minor joints and holes can be felt in the car. People who like to ride comfortably may not like this. As for reliability, the car’s suspension is quite durable, but it is not cheap to repair. When buying a used car, in order not to invest a lot in repairs, pay special attention to diagnostics of the chassis. The front has a MacPherson strut suspension and the rear has a multi-link design. At each maintenance, the calipers need to be lubricated; if this is not done, they will begin to sour and jam.
Like most modern cars, most often you will have to change the stabilizer struts and bushings lateral stability, every 30-50 thousand km. Wheel bearings and ball joints last an average of 70-90 thousand km, shock absorbers, support bearings and silent blocks last 90-120 thousand km. Levers rear suspension live about 150,000 km. What causes the most trouble is steering rack, or rather its bushings, in rare cases they last more than 60,000 km. Fortunately, this unit is repairable, the manufacturer knows about this problem and therefore has produced a special repair kit (the repair is enough for 15-20 thousand km). But the tie rods and ends are quite durable and can last more than 100,000 km.
Salon
Despite its age, the interior of the third generation Toyota Rav 4 visually looks good and compares favorably with its competitors, but the quality of materials is no better than others, and in some places even worse. Also, car owners are not happy with the sound insulation. The electrical equipment that the Rav 4 is equipped with is very reliable, the only thing that causes criticism is the rear brake light switch, which is located under the brake pedal; quite often it burns out.
Result:
The third generation Toyota Rav 4 does not have any outstanding characteristics, but in terms of reliability, it is a very successful car. If you are a calm driver and you need a car for everyday trips to work, the dacha, fishing or a picnic, then the Rav 4 will be the right choice. But, if you expect some kind of emotion and drive from a car, then this car will greatly disappoint you.
If you are the owner of this car model, please describe the problems that you encountered while using the car. Perhaps your review will help the readers of our site when choosing a car.
Best regards, editor AutoAvenue
Today, every third car in traffic in any city is a crossover, the most universal machine for our time, combining the handling of a car and the (partially) off-road capabilities of an SUV. But the first crossover appeared almost 20 years ago, in Japan. At that time it was an experimental car, one might say a test of the soil. It was called then, as now - Toyota RAV4, the abbreviation Recreation Active Vеhicle 4 stands for four wheel drive vehicle for an active holiday.
This was a departure from the generally accepted canons of creating SUVs.
The Rav4 combined all-wheel drive and independent suspension all wheels with a monocoque body. Thanks to this, the car retained excellent handling characteristics and a good level of comfort; in addition, there was also a sporty note, which helped to overcome off-road conditions and be very nimble on the highway.
First generation of the car from 1994 to 2000
The first Rav4 to be released in 1994 was a three-door short version with an original sporty design, reminiscent of an off-road coupe. Car dimensions:- length 3705 mm
- width 1695 mm
- height 1650 mm
- ground clearance 200 mm
- wheelbase 2200 mm
- tank volume 58 liters
- curb weight 1150 kg
- full mass 1565 kg
- trunk volume from 175 to 520 liters.
- length 4115 mm
- width 1695 mm
- height 1660 mm
- ground clearance 200 mm
- wheelbase 2410 mm
- tank volume 58 liters
- curb weight 1220 kg
- full 1710 kg
- trunk volume from 409 to 1790 liters.
Only one engine was installed on both versions of the first generation:
- gasoline unit with a volume of 2 liters and a power of 128 hp. Torque reached 178 Nm at 4600 rpm. Fuel consumption: 12.3 liters in the city and 7.7 liters on the highway. Acceleration to 100 km/h was 10.1 seconds. There were two transmissions to choose from: a reliable five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic with economical and sport modes.
Second generation of the car from 2000 to 2005
In the spring of 2000, sales of the updated Rav4 began. The heads of Toyota have already realized that the new type of compact SUV is very valuable in terms of sales volume and tried to strengthen all the qualities of the previous model. First of all, the appearance of the car was redesigned; now it had a more individual and masculine look. The interior of the car, with almost unchanged dimensions, has become more spacious, and the quality of finishing has improved.Dimensions of the model with three doors:
- length 3850 mm
- width 1785 mm
- height 1670 mm
- ground clearance 200 mm
- wheelbase 2280 mm
- tank volume 58 liters
- curb weight 1200 kg
- total weight 1595 kg
- trunk volume from 150 to 766 liters.
- length 4245 mm
- width 1785 mm
- height 1680 mm
- ground clearance 200 mm
- wheelbase 2490 mm
- tank volume 58 liters
- curb weight 1230 kg
- total weight1700 kg
- trunk volume from 400 to 1150 liters.
Range of engines new car was significantly expanded, instead of one unit there were three:
- 1.8 liters with output of 125 hp and torque of 161 Nm. It replaced the 2-liter one and was installed in most cases on the “short” version. Despite the slight loss of power, efficiency has increased significantly: 9.4 liters in the city and 6.2 liters on the highway. The distinctive feature of this version was the non-alternative front-wheel drive.
- 2.0 liters with a power of 150 hp, with a torque of 192 Nm. The new, most powerful engine was quite dynamic and economical: acceleration to 100 km/h in 10.6 seconds, consumption in the city - 11.4 liters, on the highway 7.3 liters.
- 2.0 liters (diesel) power 116 hp. and a torque of 250 Nm already from 1800 rpm. This is the first diesel engine installed on the RAV4; it was inferior to its gasoline counterparts in dynamics, but was more powerful off-road. Diesel fuel consumption was 9.9 liters in the city and 6.1 on the highway.
Gasoline units could be equipped with both manual and automatic transmissions from the first generation of the car; diesel engines were equipped with only manual transmissions.
In 2004, a light restyling was carried out, the shapes of both bumpers and the radiator grille were changed, but the most important thing was the appearance of a new powerful engine:
- petrol 2.4 l power 167 hp and a torque of 224 Nm. Acceleration to “60mph” took 9 seconds, and fuel consumption was only 10% more than the 150-horsepower version. This engine was equipped only with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Third generation of the car from 2005 to 2009
The new RAV4 of 2005 was built on a completely new platform and, by and large, had no previous model nothing in common. The newcomer's appearance has become more status-conscious, and the interior details have become noticeably richer. Because of new platform The three-door version is a thing of the past, and the five-door version has once again increased in size:- length 4395 mm
- width 1815 mm
- height 1685 mm
- ground clearance 190 mm
- wheelbase 2560 mm
- tank volume 60 liters
- curb weight 1500 kg
- total weight 2070 kg
- trunk volume from 586 to 1469 liters.
In addition, the front panel of the car acquired an optitron branded backlight, the engine began to start without a key, the tape recorder learned to read the mp3 format, and the display received Russification. Toyota engineers thoroughly studied the issue of safety and the RAV4 already received 7 airbags in the basic version. 
The power units also underwent revisions:
- thoroughly redesigned 2 liter engine, which received two boost levels - 152 hp. and 158 hp with the same torque of 198 Nm. The dynamics of the engines did not differ and both confidently accelerated the significantly heavier RAV4 in 10, 2 and 11 seconds, depending on the type of transmission - manual or 4-speed automatic. Version with 158 hp received a stepless variator.
- new diesel unit volume 2.2 liters with a power of 136 hp. (310 Nm) and 177 hp. (400 Nm), (turbo). The younger non-supercharged version had good performance indicators: acceleration to 100 km/h took 10.5 s, and consumption was only 8.1 liters in the city (5.6 liters on the highway). The turbo version was faster by almost one and a half seconds, and fuel consumption differed by less than half a liter. Both versions were equipped with only a manual transmission.
- the older gasoline engine 2.4 received another 3 hp and now produced 170 horses. The thrust remained at the same level - 224 Nm. As before, it was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- The most powerful RAV4 model with a Camry engine - 3.5 liters and 269 hp - was produced specifically for the US market. and a 5-speed automatic.
Starting from the third generation, the RAV4 lost its permanent all-wheel drive; from now on it has a plug-in system, i.e. rear axle connects when the front wheels slip, under the strict supervision of electronics. But the driver still had the opportunity to use 4 wheels at his own discretion; to do this, he had to press a special key to force all-wheel drive. But due to the presence of a delicate viscous coupling, the entire system is subject to increased wear when driving on asphalt with all-wheel drive. In order to avoid breakdowns, a temperature sensor was introduced into the coupling, which turned off the rear drive when it reached a high temperature. Also rear wheels switches off when the speed reaches 40 km/h. 
Fourth generation of the car from 2009 to 2012
The new generation of RAV4 was built on the same platform, and essentially featured a different design and a richer optional set, dual-zone climate control appeared, 17th alloy wheels, 6-disc CD changer and third row of seats.Now the Toyota rav4 had the following technical characteristics:
- length 4445 mm
- width 1815 mm
- height 1685 mm
- ground clearance 190 mm
- wheelbase 2560 mm
- tank volume 60 liters
- curb weight 1500 kg
- total weight 2070 kg
- trunk volume from 410 to 1320 liters.
- length 4625 mm
- width 1855 mm
- height 1720 mm
- ground clearance 190 mm
- wheelbase 2660 mm
- tank volume 60 liters
- curb weight 1690 kg,
- total weight 2100 kg
- trunk volume from 540 to 1700 liters.
But the appearance of the new product was greeted coolly among potential buyers, and a year later, in 2010, a deep restyling of the appearance was carried out. The image of the car has been completely redesigned, especially in the front end, resulting in a more dynamic silhouette and an aggressive image. However, external changes did not affect the Long version. 
In the fourth generation, the RAV4 lost almost all power units - only two engines remained on the domestic market:
- 2.0 l, 158 hp and a torque of 198 Nm. This unit has remained unchanged since the third generation.
- 2.4 l, 170 hp, with a torque of 224 Nm. Similar to the previous one - the motor is from the 3rd generation, installed only on the Long version.
- V-shaped 6-cylinder unit from Toyota Camry
- a heavy fuel engine with a volume of 2.2 liters and two power variations appeared: 150 and 180 hp.
Generation since 2013
At the end of 2013, a new generation of RAV4 was presented at an exhibition in Los Angeles. The newcomer is based on a platform already tested in practice from the previous version of Long. The new generation design has undergone dramatic changes, inheriting the new corporate style set by the Avensis sedan at the end of 2011.The Toyota Rav4 2013 technical specifications are as follows:
- length 4570 mm
- width 1845 mm
- height 1670 mm
- ground clearance 197 mm
- wheelbase 2660 mm
- tank volume 60 liters
- “empty” weight 1540 kg
- total weight 2000 kg
- trunk volume from 506 to 1705 liters.
The 2013 power units have only three options:
- 2.0 l, 146 hp, torque 187 Nm. This is an engine that has already been proven over the years and has been installed on the RAV4 for several years. This time it was reconfigured for the sake of fuel economy. Dynamic characteristics: 10, 2 seconds to the first hundred. IN basic configuration Only a 6-speed manual transmission is offered, but by paying extra you can get a CVT.
- 2.2 l, diesel 150 hp and a torque of 340 Nm. This engine is equipped only with an automatic 6-speed gearbox. This is the first diesel engine officially supplied to Russia. The RAV4 with such a unit accelerates to 100 km/h in 10 seconds, and consumes only 8.1 liters in the city (5.5 liters on the highway).
- 2.5 liters, 180 hp, torque 233 Nm. This Rafik engine was inherited from new Toyota Camry, along with a 6-speed transmission. Characteristics: 9.4 s to “one hundred”, consumption - 11.4 liters and 6.8 liters in the city and on the highway.
Options and prices
The new model began to be sold in Russia on February 23, 2013, in eight trim levels in the price range from 998,000 to 1,543,000 rubles:Standard - 998,000 rub. Front-wheel drive version with manual transmission (2.0 l). Main options: air conditioning, headlight washers, LED DRLs, immobilizer, audio system with 4 speakers and bluetooth, full-size spare wheel, set of mudguards, heated seats, USB and AUX port, 7 airbags, fabric interior, central locking with remote control, full power windows, 17-gauge steel wheels, ABS, EBD. EBS and electronic imitation of cross-axle differential. Standard plus - 1,055,000 rub. Front-wheel drive version with CVT (2.0 l). Additional options: light alloy wheel disks, including a spare, rear parking sensors, leather-trimmed steering wheel. Comfort - 1,180,000 rub. All-wheel drive version with manual transmission (2.0 l). New options: color display with a diagonal of 6.1 inches, rain sensor, light sensor, rear view camera and dual-zone climate control, leather front panel trim, audio system with 6 speakers, VSC+ stability control system, cruise control. Comfort Plus - RUR 1,248,000 All-wheel drive version with CVT (2.0 l). New options: hill descent control and xenon headlights. Elegance - 1,355,000 rub. All-wheel drive version with CVT or automatic transmission (2.0 l or 2.2 l (diesel)) Additional options: folding heated rear-view mirrors, keyless entry, push-button start, leather interior, electric tailgate, additional heater(for diesel version). Elegance Plus - 1,470,000 rub. All-wheel drive version with automatic transmission (2.5 l). The optional set does not differ from the Elegance configuration. Prestige - 1,438,000 rub. All-wheel drive version with CVT or automatic transmission (2.0 l or 2.2 l (diesel)). New options: automatic high beam, voice control system, blind spot monitoring systems, navigation system with Russification. Prestige Plus - RUR 1,543,000 All-wheel drive version with automatic transmission (2.5 l) The optional set does not differ from the Prestige configuration.
Conclusion
Toyota RAV4 is one of the most successful crossover models in the world.
Despite the sharp increase in competition in the segment, the pioneer of the world of crossovers does not give up its position to numerous competitors and in most countries is in the TOP 3 best-selling SUVs. The characteristics of the Toyota Rav4, combined with Japanese reliability, leave no doubt about the commercial success of the 2013 model in Russia.
Mass production began in 1994 Toyota car RAV4, which became one of the first representatives of the emerging class compact crossovers- cars combining best qualities passenger cars and SUVs. The car was created on the "" platform and was initially offered only with a three-door body. In 1995, an extended five-door version debuted, and after restyling in 1998, a short-wheelbase version with a removable soft top above the rear was also introduced.
Toyota RAV4 was equipped with gasoline two-liter engines. The version for the European and American markets had a power of 120–129 hp. s., and the power unit on cars for Japan developed from 135 to 180 forces. Gearboxes - manual or automatic. In America, the Toyota RAV4 was offered not only with all-wheel drive, but also with front-wheel drive. In 1997, small-scale production of the electric version of the car was launched.
2nd generation (XA20), 2000–2005
The second generation car, introduced in 2000, became larger and more solid than its predecessor. The Toyota RAV4 had versions with three and five doors, and under the hood there were 1.8 (125 hp) or 2.0 (150–155 hp) gasoline engines. The drive could be front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Since 2001, especially for the European market, the Rafik has been offered with a two-liter turbodiesel engine producing 115 hp. With.
In 2003, a minor restyling of the model was carried out. At the same time, the range of power units was replenished with a 2.4-liter engine developing 161 hp. With.
3rd generation (XA30), 2005–2014
The third-generation crossover became even larger, lost its three-door version, and acquired new transmission with a multi-plate clutch driving the rear wheels. In some markets, a long-wheelbase seven-seat modification of the car was offered (in Japan it was sold as a separate Toyota Vanguard model).
The range of power units consisted of gasoline engines 2.0 (152 hp), 2.4 (170 hp), as well as a 3.5-liter “six” with a capacity of 273 hp. With. Turbodiesels had a volume of 2.0 and 2.2 liters and developed 116–177 hp. With. The cars were equipped with manual or automatic transmissions, and the Japanese versions were equipped with CVTs. All-wheel drive and front-wheel drive Toyotas were supplied to Russia with gasoline engines volume 2.0 and 2.4 liters.
After restyling in 2008, the crossover received a slightly changed appearance; in the American market, instead of a 2.4-liter engine, they began to offer a 2.5-liter with a capacity of 181 hp. With. At the same time, the two-liter power unit was modernized: it had a variable valve timing system, and output increased to 158 forces. The “Russian” Toyota RAV4 remained with the same set of engines, but we began to offer a long-wheelbase version.
Another restyling in 2010 changed more noticeably appearance cars. At the same time, deliveries to the Russian market of versions with a modernized 2.0 engine (158 hp) began; instead of a four-speed automatic, customers were offered a CVT, and instead of a five-speed manual, a six-speed.
Toyota RAV4 engine table
| Version | Engine model | engine's type | Volume, cm3 | Power, l. With.Note | |
| 2.0 | 1AZ-FE | R4, gasoline | 1998 | 152 | 2006-2010 |
| 2.4 | 2AZ-FE | R4, gasoline | 2362 | 170 | 2006-2013 |
| 2.0 | 3ZR-FAE | R4, gasoline | 1986 | 148 / 158 | 2008-2013 |
| 2.5 | 3AR-FE | R4, gasoline | 2494 | 182 | 2008-2012 |
| 3.5 | 2GR-FE | V6, petrol | 3458 | 269 / 273 | 2005-2013 |
| 2.0 | 1AD-FHV | R4, diesel | 1998 | 116 | 2005-2006 |
| 2.2 | 2AD-FHV | R4, diesel | 2231 | 136 | 2006-2013 |
| 2.2 | 2AD-FHV | R4, diesel | 2231 | 150 | 2010-2013 |
| 2.2 | 2AD-FHV | R4, diesel | 2231 | 177 | 2006-2013 |
| EV | - | electric | - | 154 | 2012-2014 |
4th generation (XA40), 2013
Crossover "Toyota RAV4" Toyota RAV4 is offered with gasoline engines 2.0 and 2.5, as well as with a 2.2-liter turbodiesel. The two-liter car has versions with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the rest of the cars are all-wheel drive.
Toyota RAV4 2.0, front wheel drive
The base model of the Toyota RAV4 crossover with a two-liter engine producing 146 hp. With., manual transmission gears and front-wheel drive costs 1,616,000 rubles. The initial “Standard” configuration has seven airbags, a stabilization system, air conditioning, an audio system, heated front seats, heating windshield, fog lights. The “Standard Plus” version with a CVT, climate control and a rain sensor is estimated at 1,703,000 rubles.
Toyota RAV4 2.0, all-wheel drive
An all-wheel drive two-liter car with a CVT in the Standard Plus configuration costs 1,802,000 rubles. Version "Comfort Plus" (multimedia system, cruise control, rear view camera, keyless entry system, light sensor, roof rails, LED headlights, alloy wheels) with a CVT is offered for 1,946,000 rubles. A Prestige car (parking sensors, electrically adjustable driver's seat) costs 2,084,000 rubles.
Toyota RAV4 2.5, all-wheel drive
Toyota RAV4, equipped with a 2.5-liter engine (180 horsepower), is offered only with automatic transmission gears and all-wheel drive. Prices start at 2,077,000 rubles for a car in the Comfort Plus configuration, and a crossover in the Prestige version will cost 2,251,000 rubles.
Toyota RAV4 2.2D, all-wheel drive
Diesel crossover with a 2.2-liter engine producing 150 hp. With. It is equipped only with a six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system. This “RAV4” is offered in the “Comfort Plus” trim levels for 2,069,000 and “Prestige” for 2,243,000 rubles.
Fourth generation Toyota models RAV4 has been produced since 2013; the model was restyled in 2015. Machines for Russian market Since 2016 they have been produced in St. Petersburg.
However, even after “Rafik” had rivals, the “Japanese” did not yield to their onslaught, demonstrating consistently high sales thanks to a carefully balanced set of qualities. In particular, the cars of the first two generations were distinguished by enviable reliability. Is it included in the list of advantages of the third generation machine? It's time to find out.
Over the almost twenty-year history of the model, the love of buyers for the RAV4 has not cooled one degree: each subsequent modification has sold better and better. Even during the crisis years, the car attracted crowds of buyers! The secret of success is simple: Japanese origin, good off-road capabilities, plus a reasonable price.
The third generation “Rafik” - factory index XA30 - came to us in 2006, and four years later the Japanese updated the “Recreational Active Vehicle 4 Wheel drive” - that’s what this abbreviation means) and at the same time We added an extended version to our range. The short version could be purchased with a 2-liter engine, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive cars were equipped exclusively with a manual transmission, and the 4x4 version could be either “manual” or “automatic” - a CVT acted as an automatic transmission. The version with an extended wheelbase (LWB) received a more powerful 2.4-liter engine and a full-fledged automatic transmission with a torque converter.
The equipment of all cars is more than generous: the basic version has full set safety equipment (7 airbags, ABS) plus full power accessories, air conditioning, “music” and so on, and the top-end “Prestige” sports leather, navigation and xenon.
A three-year-old Rafik now costs from 750,000 to 1,150,000 rubles, while dealers are asking from a million rubles or more for a car of the current, fourth generation. Therefore, a discount of 250,000–400,000 rubles. looks very tempting. Still, let's study in detail possible expenses for the maintenance of this Japanese.
Body and electrical equipment
Pest beetles
In this regard, there are no complaints about the RAV4, since rust is not found on three-year-old cars - the paint perfectly withstands an aggressive environment. And yet, carefully inspect the hood: on some copies, near the radiator grille, there may be pinpoint areas of corrosion - the so-called “bugs”. Toyota dealers usually fixed this problem under warranty; and if you do treatment at your own expense, you will have to shell out about 10,000 rubles.
The mechanics have no complaints about the electrics: there is simply nothing to break in the car, the servicemen unanimously say. Toyota really does not have complex components that can cause trouble - hence the problem-free operation. All childhood ailments were cured by 2008, so three-year-old cars will not cause trouble to the new owner.
Transmission
Don't forget about prevention
The servicemen had no complaints about any of the units, be it manual, automatic or CVT. The clutch on versions with a manual transmission lasts at least 100,000 km and is traditionally replaced as a set - a disc plus a basket. But the mechanical versions were not particularly popular among us, so most three-year-olds are equipped with an automatic transmission, about which there are no complaints. Both the CVT and automatic are extremely reliable and dealers don't recall ever changing them.
There are no problems with the unit that transmits torque to the rear wheels in all-wheel drive versions. Unlike its classmates, it operates here, which has not become very popular recently, "Haldex" with electronically controlled, but a simpler viscous coupling. If you take care of it, changing the oil according to the regulations every 40,000 km, and at the same time do not force the car with extreme off-road driving, it will last a long time. But if you neglect planned prevention, problems may arise, and expensive ones. At first, the coupling will complain about its health with a characteristic hum from under the bottom.
If you ignore the problem, you will end up with a single-wheel drive car, and the entire clutch will have to be replaced, which is quite expensive.
Engine
Sealing problems
All of them are also considered problem-free. Both naturally aspirated engines easily digest our fuel, even not the most High Quality. The timing chain operates in the gas distribution mechanism, which lasts at least 200,000 km. When the time comes for replacement due to stretching, she will announce this by annoying strumming. Attachment belts usually run 60,000-70,000 km.
One of the little things to consider is the cooling system pump on the 2.4-liter engine - it begins to leak over the years. Simple sealing is not enough: the pump will have to be replaced entirely. The radiator may also leak, but this will not happen before the odometer reaches 150,000 km.
On the secondary market you can find modifications with a 3.5-liter petrol V6, as well as diesel versions - these cars got to Russia in a roundabout way, bypassing official dealers. Domestic craftsmen do not have any representative statistics about these units.
Chassis and steering
No heroism!
The chassis of the Rafik, by the standards of modern crossovers, has a standard design: the front wheels are raised on MacPherson struts, and the multi-link suspension. Front lower control arms will last a minimum of 150,000 km, and the service life of rear trailing arms is usually 100,000 km. The front shock absorbers on our roads are capable of running 80,000–100,000 km, and the rear ones will last 50,000 longer. Silent blocks and anthers are unlikely to cause trouble before 150,000 km, but this largely depends on how active road services fertilize streets with reagents in winter.
There are no complaints about the electric power steering, but the steering rack is no different in survivability: in some cases, it becomes unstable after a mileage of 70 thousand km - this will become clear when you hear tapping on small bumps. Craftsmen are trying to repair it, but this kind of poultice can extend the life of the rack by no more than 10,000–20,000 km. It makes more sense to immediately replace the part with a new one. Yes, it is expensive, but it is safe and reliable.
Brake pads front and rear last 40,000–50,000 km, discs last twice as long.
