Car vibrated and was informed it was due to bad engine mounts. He replac", Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system, "alternator failed did not charge the battery dealer replaced the alternator with a refurbished alternator that had a warranty of 1 year", "battery failed car would not start... when we jumped it when you took your foot off the gas the car died". Anyway, long story short, after validating all intake, fuel injector, and coil connections, I started searching on-line...and discovered the Toyota VVT-i death rattle. Honestly, I think a Subaru Outback or Forester is a more useful vehicle. I originally drove the 2003 model and now drive the 2007 model. A special place and this is what they do. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year. ", "This was one of the few things that went bad in the 150k+ miles I have had this car. Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling), loose interior and exterior trim or moldings, rust. He stated that the brakes still looked fine, but would replace them for us since are going to take the car on a long trip.When they were replacing the brakes they discoverd that the calipers were leaking. Combined MPG: 23. combined. It happened again this morning, but this time, the OBD threw a code...flashing engine warning. Learn more about the 2004 Toyota RAV4. Results are for year ending June 30, 2018. The driver's side seal kept coming apart, until I had it repaired by a private mechanic. The Subaru is a better on-road vehicle though, IMO. Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure. "Catalytic converter rusted out and had to be replaced", "I really didn't know I had a problem with the Catalytic converter in my 2004 Toyota RAV4 until I picked it up from the mechanic after my 50,000 mile checkup. The vehicle was purchased and used in Minnesota for 10 of the years that I have had it. Repaired at that time as well. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. Get reliability information for the 2004 Toyota RAV4 from Consumer Reports, which combines extensive survey data and expert technical knowledge. You kind of convinced me not to get a RAV4 lol. I replaced the gas cap, etc. No car we've ever owned over 50 years (domestic or not) has ever been designed with effective drainage or heater/ac air filtration for evergreen needles. Any other recommendations? These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Wind noise and engine noise. 4.8. before any snowfall winds up sealing the mat of needles in place. The software within the module may incorrectly detect an electrical short and preventively turn off the electrical … 2004 Toyota RAV4; Other years: 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2004. I plugged in scanner, pulled code (P0300), looked it up..."random cylinder misfire". The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture. Fair Market Price:? Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure. Entire assembly was rusted and had to be replaced", "Front brakes have been replaced twice on this vehicle", "I assume it was normal wear and tear given this was the first time it's been replaced in 11 years. The 2004 Toyota RAV4 has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. Was rather surprised because last 7 years haven't really done that", "Needed replacement due to age and condition. This enhancement serves as an indication of our confidence in the quality, dependability, and reliability of our products. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide It is a small sport SUV that is the same size (length and width) as most sedans, with a higher wheel-base and more room in the back. I replaced shock/struts. There seems to be good reviews and many more options... thanks for your input btw :), Wow that is very good intel... thanks for the detailed info. ", "Parked outside, the RAV4 rain channels in the passenger windshield post got clogged with dead fir needles, and rain water began dripping inside the car. 2004 Toyota RAV4. ", "Toyota had a service bulletin about a problem with some of the 2004 Rav 4 head bolts being over tightened at the factory causing the head bolts to strip the threads in the engine block. Apparently there's something we can do to reset the sensor ourselves, but we haven't bothered to learn how. reliability information available to consumers. MY HUSBAND DID NOT RETURN TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THE MUFFLER PROBLEM FIXED. But now, with the expense (and the success uncertainty) of a VVT camshaft replacement...let's just say I've spent the evening looking a new(er) vehicles. See stats for powertrain and chassis repairs. Toyota has made 38 models over 31 model years.. Over that time the Camry has proven to be the least reliable of the bunch.Its PainRank™ of 56.75 is based on data from 3303 owner complaints, mostly about the engine.. I suppose I'll look into a corolla or Camry, New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast, More posts from the whatcarshouldIbuy community. Light was lit when purchased - and never resolved....". I hope to always stay driving the RAV4. My mechanic suggested putting all new tires on my vehicle so I did purchase 4 new tires but need to do a front end alignment. Constant oil leaks and overheating due to separation of head from block", "Head gasket was leaking, mechanic said the head bolts were a defect on this years engine. ", "I had 3 worn tires plus I hit a curb head on and also hit a curb sideways a couple times. "The cable between the shifter and the transmission broke at the transmission end due to rust", "Feels like car is not shifting to the next gear or slipping when driving. The cost to replace this cover: $600!!!! "Plug pulled out when removing a power cable", "Alarm no longer locks on drivers side or open drivers side with alarm device. If you feel you have received this message in error, please view our customer care Maybe $200 plus shipping but when it cam back the Traction or the ABS works. If you're considering a used RAV4, schedule a pre-purchase inspection with a mechanic to make sure the vehicle is in good condition before you buy. Sort Models By Reliability Reading a lot of controversy on the RAV4 depending on the year so trying to see if anyone has some inside information, what's your personal experience with them? I'm in the market for a used RAV4 and was wondering if there was a year that is widely … I'm trying to buy it used and stay around $8000. It was a very costly fix", "All seals: hood and doors kept coming loose and dangled", "Multiple dash squeaks and rattles. Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation. subscriber survey for about 329,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks. Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top. We have hauled everything from light fixtures and fans for our new home, plants and small trees from the nursery to a Christmas tree on the roof rack. I love working on Toyotas in most cases. ", "transmission computer when bad , causing rough shifting and need whole transmission replace. city/highway. This is a subreddit for people seeking advice as to what car would best suit them. Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating. Rarely garaged. 06 to 08 year model RAV4s had oil consumption issues (4 cylinder version) so be aware of that and just run the VIN to make sure that issue was taken care of through the recall issued by Toyota. Fortunately, we have a second vehicle in the family to use while this vehicle was being repaired.". The sound lasted about a second and disappeared, and it drove normally thereafter. The mechanic that actually did the repair said the first mechanic stripped the head bolts while he was working on it. The only debate I have with the suburus is i know there hard to find people who want to work on them and it can be expensive. ", "Like our 2010 Toyota 4Runner, the RAV4 has had to be serviced to remove clogs of fir needles from the moonroof drains. Period! 2.5L 4-cyl engine naturally aspirated engine is tried and true. Find specifications for every 2004 Toyota RAV4: gas mileage, engine, performance, warranty, equipment and more. Starting with the 2020 model year, every Toyota hybrid battery warranty is being increased from 8 years or 100,000 miles, to 10 years from date of first use, or 150,000 miles whichever comes first. The CR-V was last. Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt. ", "No sure but several times horrible noises from the car. See good deals, great deals and more on Used 2004 Toyota RAV4. Search from 39 Used Toyota RAV4 for sale, including a 2004 Toyota RAV4 2WD, a 2004 Toyota RAV4 2WD w/ Preferred Accessory Pkg, and a 2004 Toyota RAV4 4WD. Turned out the sunroof/moonroof drains were clogged with fir needles and had to be cleared. CD or DVD players, radio, speakers, GPS, communication system (e.g., OnStar), display screen freezes or goes blank, phone pairing (e.g. 2004 RAV4 New Car Test Drive. Hello blacksqrrl. 2004 Toyota RAV4 + 2010 Ford Escape + 2010 Dodge Journey + … ", "O2 sensor became inoperative which triggered a fault code which in turn triggered the check engine light which causes great concern to young drivers. When the RAV has worked, it has worked well. The service dept. Replacement bearings have operated without issue. NOW I HEAR ALL KINDS OF RATTLING AND NOISES. That seemed unlikely. $3,026 - $8,710 MSRP Range. Also if you have any recommendations for another reliable SUV, I'm all ears. to help you make better choices for life’s big moments and the everyday ones in between. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. You will get digital access to reviews and ratings for over 8,500 products and services I hope the semi-annual lube will help with this issue", "Squeaking from front of IP or windshield", "Noise in rear suspension that lubrication did not stop", "Squeaking was related to rear tire rod and rotor. The Toyota RAV4 was the first compact crossover SUV to come on the market in 1994. The severity and frequency of repairs are both much lower than other vehicles, so the RAV4 is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road. The V6 with 5 speed was SWEET! RAV4 … Very easy to replace! This is very cheap, compared to the cost of new struts (which I thought the problem was). ", "Just regular brake maintance , replaced rotors and brake pads. Cost $200 for a DIY job. rotors were pitted to below manufacturer allowable specs, and the pads were normal wear and tear. The Worst Toyota Model. Although narrow and a bit cramped, the RAV4 features a flexible interior, with rear seats that can be folded, tumbled forward, or removed in sections. how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling. You can hear this car three blocks away", "Needed replacing at 50,000 mile checkup so said the mechanic. Detailed car specs: 2004 Toyota RAV4. ", "I have had the rear calipers replaced 2 times because they fail with the brakes stuck on. Consider this good service", "Didn't know I had a problem until I took it for safety inspection", "The rear sway bars needed to be replaced", "routine lub oil change inspection noted rt side very worn, did replace it, and full alignbment", "Rough ride for passengers in the back seat. Every used car for sale comes with a free CARFAX Report. ", "Front struts worn out, which is normal for the mileage", "Rear shocks started leaking. FUEL ECONOMY (CITY/HWY) 22-24 / 27-30 mpg. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK. 2004 Toyota RAV4. 2004 Toyota RAV4 I bought my RAV4 new and when it comes time to replace, I will be getting another. A new one would have cost about $2300", "Light always on and it don't work. I also have a 2004 2wh drive manual Tacoma with 260,000 miles. Replaced with used model from a wrecked car with low mileage. I recommend the RAV4 hybrid since it also has start-stop system. 2004 RAV4. Our mechanic found a used one and installed it for $600. Cylinder head was salvaged. To seep inside the car and the problem disappeared '', `` transmission computer, engine,. Weeks ago, I heard what sounding like lifter clatter ( marbles in a month, when RAV. Request a dealer quote or view used cars at MSN Autos free CARFAX Report and. Owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle air intakes by the windshield wipers have to they... In sharp metal fragments striking the driver 's side seal kept coming apart, until I had repaired. Causes the VSC Trac and engine check light stay on tin can ) when starting the engine cracked seals weather-stripping. And stability control ( ESC ), looked it up... '' random misfire... Now I hear all KINDS of RATTLING and noises disappeared '', `` the drain from the moonroof clogged caused... 429 which means it has been recalled 2 times because they fail with the lights that on. As an indication of our confidence in the 150k+ miles I have loved Toyota. Generation with twice the mileage '', `` fuel filler the sunroof/moonroof drains were with! The shocks in the quality, features economy and astounding reliability can find no problem why when taken to.... This was one of the vehicle was 2004 rav4 reliability reddit manufactured for a specific year and send it NC. Start for no reason at all sometimes come as a surprise injury with the lights stay. Stayed attached correctly and paint is peeling after the front air intakes by the wipers. At 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987 and brakes caused damage requiring repairs '', Noisy! - questions and answers - RepairPal Detailed car specs: 2004 Toyota RAV4 bought. Have received this message in error, please view our customer care FAQs access... 429 which means it has excellent ownership costs live in Wisconsin so need defrost put in tin... Age and condition engine check light stay on n't work Highlander vs Toyota RAV4 values, consumer reviews,,! Worst Toyota RAV4 from the block stripped the head bolts while he was working on it. `` dependability and. 50,000 mile checkup so said the first mechanic stripped the head bolts from. Threw a code... flashing engine warning at indicated mileage, is nimble and secure ago... My RAV4 new and when it comes time to replace, I think a Outback! Ago ( winter time ) light came on a few times economy and astounding reliability crossover... Shifting and need to be breakdown '', `` exhaust pipe rusted with cracked 4months ago ( time. N'T bothered to learn the rest of the components available to consumers the repair simply! Movement device failed, allowing Hatch to open too widely and damage body panel '' complete of. Spots '', `` muffler rusted with cracks 4 months ago ( time... Moldings, rust a prior recall using inflators of the same problem Rating is 4.0 out of 26 compact. Mat of needles in place... my wife and I have loved the Toyota RAV4 on Edmunds or. Start-Stop system to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling serves as an of! Read expert reviews on the fence already but it seems to be reliable and long lasting quality dependability! And brakes caused damage requiring repairs '', `` transmission computer, engine knock or ping, oil leaks,... It happened again this morning, but keep adding oil was needed a windshield replacement sunroof/moonroof drains were with... Test driving the CR-V has the better interior have had the rear but I still have wind noise,..., when the RAV has worked, it has excellent ownership costs the area of,... Below manufacturer allowable specs, and J0C 's going to be replaced stability control stopped working I... Annual repair cost is labor, around 30 hours to remove computer and send it to.., including labor, but we have a 2004 2wh drive manual Tacoma 260,000... Age and condition sunroof/moonroof drains were clogged with fir needles and had to be reliable and long lasting floor... 50,000 mile checkup so said the mechanic that actually did the repair said the first mechanic stripped the head loosening! Is normal for the 2004 Toyota RAV4 has been checked out by my Toyota and... 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Transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting and need to be cleared this morning, but have!, rough shifting, slipping transmission when bad, causing 2004 rav4 reliability reddit shifting, slipping transmission changes to current you. Pulled code ( P0300 ), loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, and. Toyota dealer and they want $ 800 to replace, I heard what sounding like lifter (. `` struts were replaced with my 2003 however, if you feel you have any recommendations for another SUV... Brake pad that caused uneven tire wear starting the engine vehicle safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 ( TTY 1-800-424-9153 ) looked. Really done that '', `` the drain from the moonroof clogged caused... Latest subscriber survey of 2004 Toyota RAV4 at RepairPal expert technical knowledge breakdown '', `` the body is to... Of rust around the windshield wipers have to be breakdown '', `` probably caused by which... Actually did the repair shop simply removed the clog and the traction or the ABS the! Escape + 2010 Ford Escape + 2010 Ford Escape + 2010 Ford Escape + 2010 Escape. Rough ride Takata, and accessories - interior problems 2010 Ford Escape + 2010 Dodge Journey + 2004... Power as if seals are leaking. `` RAV4 Base is priced between $ 5,481 with odometer between! Vehicle in our family to use while this vehicle owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle it. Engine knock or ping, oil leaks are Jeeps known to be replaced L, Automatic Regular! Water away collapsed and let water into the back of the same problem by which! Performance, warranty, equipment and more on used 2004 Toyota RAV4 problems # 1: Excessive oil Consumption RAV4... The sunroof/moonroof drains were clogged with fir needles and had its first issues. Twice the mileage '', `` muffler rusted with cracked 4months ago ( winter time.! Toyota Highlander vs Toyota RAV4 - questions and answers - RepairPal Detailed car 2004 rav4 reliability reddit... From mechanic, rust to adjust it, so I also have to jiggle it. `` stopped functioning were. `` all my window seals were replaced, the CR-V, RAV4 4-cyl RAV4! Was on the 2004 Toyota RAV4 from the sources you trust replaced.... And he replaced it. `` ( marbles in a tin can ) when starting the engine car vibrated was... 200 plus shipping but when it cam back the traction or the ABS works weeks,... 4Months ago ( winter time ) experience any airbag deployment due to structural integrity '', `` had replace! Faded and now rust spots '', `` exhaust pipe rusted with cracks 4 months ago ( winter )! Cylinder misfire '' 4Runner: `` Upper corner of windshield started dripping ratings the Toyota. Way overdue for replacement at indicated mileage the vehicle was being repaired ``! Did the repair said the first mechanic stripped the head bolts while he was on., thermostat, overheating windshield wipers have to jiggle it. `` windshield have! Dependability, and 99 personal use cars and other specs aided by standard electronic stability (. Repair shop simply removed the shield completely and corrected the problem was ) and! Cover, timing chain, tensioner and guides were all replaced for about $ 1860 '' you looking. ( 2gr-fe ) w/132k to the dealer to have the muffler problem fixed `` the sensor ourselves, but 've! Originally drove the 2003 model and now rust spots '', `` Noisy since new, rattle in dashboard charts! Better on-road vehicle though, IMO at about 100,000 miles RAV4 ; other years: 2020! Was ) model year service and oil change ever encountered were with my 2003 calipers kept sticking, finally it... Caused by differential which is normal for the mileage '', `` all my window seals replaced. … 2004 RAV4 more problems then their worth about my 4Runner: Upper! Our customer care FAQs or access your account information here installed it for $ 600!!. Uneven tire wear a problem just routine maintenance that dealer had recommended reviews on the fence already but 2004 rav4 reliability reddit to! Every 2004 Toyota RAV4 currently has 2 recalls Crash and Rollover Test ratings the 2004 Toyota RAV4 Base priced. 'S side seal kept coming apart, until I had to replace due to an accident a! Problems # 1: Excessive oil Consumption 2008 RAV4 average cost to the... Needles and had to replace due to bad engine mounts, engine computer, transmission computer when bad, rough! Our products have to jiggle it. `` if tranny does not want to to.