Toyota Rav 4 (III generation) has been produced since 2005. The car first appeared on Japanese markets. The company later launched sales in the US and Europe. The first samples of the updated crossover were brought to Russia in 2006.
The changes with the previous generation have been dramatic. The concern completely abandoned the production of three-door versions. The changes also affected driving characteristics. Toyota Rav 4 (III generation) abandoned permanent four-wheel drive.
For the North American market, manufacturers have released longer versions of the car. Especially for the USA, the concern created a modification of the car with a 3.5-liter engine.
Exterior of Toyota RAV4 3
The changes in design have been enormous. The car received rounded shapes and exceptionally smooth transitions. A similar concept was used in all Toyota cars of those years.
The headlights are ordinary and even a little boring. The fog lights installed in the bumper add aggressiveness and some kind of brutality to the car.
The taillights are compact. They are not stretched out like competitors like the Honda CRV or Nissan X-Trail. In general, the rear of the car does not stand out in anything remarkable. Everything is quite calm and even somewhat boring.
Characteristics of Toyota RAV-4 / Toyota RAV-4
The Toyota RAV 4 debuted in 1994 as a three-door station wagon. This fundamentally new SUV broke out of the then existing stereotypes. The combination of all-wheel drive, independent suspension on all wheels and a load-bearing body structure provided the new car with excellent handling characteristics and a high level of ride comfort. The RAV 4 marked the beginning of a class of compact SUVs that combine off-road capability with sporty highway dynamics and car-like comfort. The name of the car is an abbreviation for Recreation Active Vehicle 4 Wheel Drive - an all-wheel drive vehicle for active recreation.
The short-wheelbase three-door car is extremely harmonious. Possessing a catchy, original appearance, a slightly cramped driver’s cockpit with a la sports steering wheel and recessed instrument dials, the car creates the image of an “off-road sports coupe”.
But the five-door version of the RAV 4, which appeared in 1995, claims to be a family car. Due to the extended base and rear overhang, the car has more space for passengers in the rear seat and the trunk volume has increased.
For the first generation RAV 4 there is only one engine - a two-liter petrol engine with 128 hp. This engine is Japanese-style, reliable, durable and has excellent performance, providing a fairly light car with excellent dynamics. In addition, it is very economical - fuel consumption per 100 km is 9-11 liters.
There is both an all-wheel drive version of the car and a front-wheel drive version of the RAV 4. The latter is much less common than the all-wheel drive version and its cost is 10% lower. The car's transmission is almost flawless. The all-wheel drive version of the RAV 4 has a permanent all-wheel drive design with torque distributed equally between the front and rear wheels.
The car is equipped with either an absolutely reliable manual gearbox or an electronically controlled automatic transmission, which has also proven itself to be the best. The automatic transmission has two operating modes - economical (“Norm”) and sports (“PWR”). However, there is one “but”. The car does not have the main attribute of an SUV - a reduction gear, without which it is almost impossible to turn all four wheels in sand or sticky mud.
The RAV 4 has a superbly tuned chassis. Toyota designers managed to find the perfect balance between handling, rigidity and comfort. The car handles great when cornering! In them, it represents an almost ideal model of the behavior of an all-wheel drive vehicle. But, unlike passenger all-wheel drive vehicles, it allows you to feel the limits of your capabilities before the situation becomes critical. The excellent driving characteristics of the car are largely ensured by the monocoque (frameless) body and fully independent suspension.
In the spring of 2000, the second generation of RAV 4 launched. During the development of the new car, a bet was made on strengthening the product image of the new SUV concept established by the original model. At the same time, due to the radical improvement of the weak points of the previous model, the car was able to give a bright individuality as a leader among small-class SUVs, which would be ahead of similar models of other brands created after the RAV 4.
First of all, the appearance of the previous RAV 4, equipped with larger tires and having small overhangs, was changed - during the development of a new design solution, the car acquired a more stylish, more “masculine” look. At the same time, the interior was significantly improved, primarily due to improved quality of finishing. The “metal-like” inserts with decorative chrome-plated “bolt” heads look interesting.
The interior of the second generation RAV 4 has become more spacious with virtually no change in external dimensions. The front seats of the car have three mechanical adjustments and have a wide range of longitudinal adjustment. The rear seats are multifunctional and have separate adjustments (longitudinal and backrest angle). However, no matter what, a person 190 cm tall can sit in the back seat behind a person of the same build only by moving the rear seat all the way back. The car trunk has a relatively low loading height and several side pockets.
The second generation RAV 4 is equipped with a 1,998 liter DOHC VVT-i petrol engine. and power 150 hp. The three-door modification of the RAV 4 is equipped with a 128-horsepower 1.8-liter gasoline engine. Since the spring of 2001, some cars have been equipped with a 1.995 liter D-4D turbo diesel engine. and a power of 113 hp, accelerating the RAV 4 to 100 km/h in 12 seconds.
The handling of the updated RAV 4 is beyond praise. The car confidently holds a straight line and even at a speed of 160 km/h allows you to change lanes without stress. The car quickly and accurately responds to the slightest movements of the steering wheel. However, the RAV 4 does not shine with smoothness. The car conscientiously reacts to the slightest irregularities and follows the profile of the road... But with increasing speed, everything changes for the better.
The car is equipped with an independent McPherson suspension. The vehicle's permanent all-wheel drive system uses a viscous coupling. The new RAV 4, as before, is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. On the RAV 4 with a turbodiesel, only manual transmission is installed.
The basic equipment of the car (R2) includes an adjustable steering column, a height-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, power accessories, a folding rear seat, air conditioning, a radio, front airbags, ABS, fog lights, alloy wheels and central locking with remote control. This configuration is available in three- and five-door versions of the car. A more “advanced” package (R4) additionally includes heated exterior mirrors, a limited-slip rear axle differential and the so-called “wide package” (235/60 R16 tires and fender flares). Only long-wheelbase modifications are supplied with this equipment. The luxury R5 cars feature a leather interior.
The light restyling that the model underwent in 2004, in addition to replacing the bumper, a new radiator grille and optics, gave the RAV4 a new engine - a 2.4 liter naturally aspirated petrol engine with a capacity of 163 hp.
In the fall of 2005, the third generation RAV4 premiered at the Frankfurt Motor Show, mass production of which began in 2006. The third generation RAV4 has lost its three-door version. The car is based on a completely new platform. It has grown a little in height and width, acquired an enviable appearance and a comfortable, high-quality interior. The engine now starts without a key, the radio reads mp3, and the display “speaks” in Russian.
The instruments are new, optitronic, the honorable central place is now given to the speedometer (previously there was a tachometer in the center). The tachometer, along with fuel level and coolant temperature indicators, are located on the sides. There are more places for small things. In addition to the spacious box in the center armrest, there are now not one, but two glove boxes. But most importantly, the cabin has become even more spacious. For example, the distance between the front and rear seats has increased by 55 mm, and it has become freer in the shoulders and above the heads. By the way, the rear seat is now divided not equally, but into two unequal parts (60:40).
If previously the Toyota RAV 4 was sold in two versions - front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, now the choice has been reduced to purely front-wheel drive and front-wheel drive with a rear-wheel drive option. A viscous coupling was introduced at the rear, activated electronically and connecting the rear drive when the front wheels slip, or forcibly, at the request of the driver. After “manually” connecting the rear drive by pressing a special button on the front panel, the clutch was activated and the car became all-wheel drive. However, due to the fact that there was no center differential, in order to avoid transmission breakdowns, all-wheel drive could only be connected outside of asphalt roads or on slippery surfaces. To prevent the delicate coupling from overheating, it was equipped with a temperature sensor. Thus, smart electronics turned off the clutch in two cases - upon reaching a speed of 40 km/h, and in the event that the clutch overheated due to active slipping of the rear wheels. The only disadvantage of this solution is that a car that stalled off-road very quickly became front-wheel drive due to overheating of the rear clutch.
The range of engines has expanded - a powerful 2.4-liter gasoline engine has appeared, a redesigned two-liter engine added only 2 “horses” to 150, and a new 2.2-liter D-4D diesel engine with 136 hp completes the picture. (177 hp turbocharged). For the American market, a 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine with 200 hp was offered. There were still two transmissions - a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.
It is now possible to travel in the new Rav 4 with the maximum level of comfort and safety. Safety is provided by seven airbags (standard) and the Integrated Active Drive active safety system. This system coordinates the operation of the stabilization system, all-wheel drive and electric power steering.
2009 was the date of “birth” of the fourth generation.
The car received a new design. Updated bumper lines and grille give the RAV4 a somewhat modernist look. The model has a spacious interior and trunk.
The car was produced in three trim levels: base, Limited and Sport, all of which were designed for five passengers. Optionally, you can install a third row of seats, then the capacity will increase to seven passengers.
Standard basic equipment includes: 16-inch steel wheels (17-inch alloy wheels can be purchased for an additional fee), autopilot, full power accessories, tilt-telescoping steering column, keyless door opening system, six-speaker stereo system, CD/MP3 -player and audio input. The list of the Sport version is somewhat larger: improved external design, 18-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension, rear tinted windows, heated side mirrors, fog lights. The most expensive Limited package also does not disappoint: automatic climate control in two zones, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a built-in six-disc CD changer with satellite radio (optional in the base and Sport versions), 17-inch wheels with soft running.
The Sport Appearance package is available as an option on all-wheel drive models with the 6-cylinder engine and includes a liftgate without the spare tire, run-flat tires, and an upgraded audio system with a six-disc CD changer and satellite radio. And for an additional fee for the Sport and Limited versions you can get leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, a nine-speaker stereo system with Bluetooth and satellite radio, a rearview camera and, traditionally, a transparent sunroof. And only for the Limited package it is possible to order heated front seats, and for rear-row passengers an entertainment system with DVD. However, depending on the country where the Toyota RAV4 is sold, the set of options may change.
Two engine options. The optional six-cylinder makes 269 hp. volume 3.5 l. It comes with a five-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder engine of the Toyota RAV4, which comes as standard, has increased its power from 170 to 179 hp. This engine is equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
The Toyota RAV4 can be either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive only. Front-wheel drive variants have limited slip differentials. The 4WD modification, using an electronic all-wheel drive system, transfers the main power to the front axle, and uses the rear axles only when slipping. You can also lock the all-wheel drive system. Then the power between the bridges will be distributed equally.
Vehicle safety is of key importance. The 2009 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with ABS disc brakes, traction control, front-seat side-impact airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags, active front-seat head restraints, and stability control. And the hill descent assistance system is additionally installed on models with a 6-cylinder engine and/or a third row of seats.
At the Geneva Motor Show in 2010, Toyota presented another restyled version of the RAV4 SUV. The car has changed quite a lot in appearance. The design of the front end has been completely redesigned to create an even more rapid and dynamic image. The new sculpted hood and bright radiator grille are successfully complemented by narrow and elongated headlights, making the car’s appearance more aggressive. The distinctive chrome surrounds of the fog lamps highlight the aerodynamic shape of the front bumper with an integrated spoiler. They decided not to touch the successful rear part much and replaced the taillights - now they are LED. The updated RAV4 has finally lost the spare wheel on the fifth door. Well, according to tradition, we added wheels of a different design and three new body colors. However, it’s worth mentioning right away that most of the restyled changes affected only the regular, short-wheelbase version. The long wheelbase, meanwhile, retained its previous appearance, as well as all the mechanics.
The wheelbase of the long-wheelbase modification is increased by 100 mm compared to the standard version and amounts to 2660 mm. Changes in all overall dimensions of the car made it possible to increase the space inside the cabin and the volume of the trunk. The length of the interior of this modification of the car has been increased by 45 mm and is 1865 mm, the distance between the front and rear seats has been increased from 800 to 865 mm, which ensures an even more comfortable position for passengers in the car, and the trunk volume has been increased from 410 to 540 liters. This modification offers a unique radiator grille design, emphasizing the premium quality of the package.
The car is equipped with two types of four-cylinder petrol engines - a new 2.0-liter Valvematic engine with a dual variable valve timing system DualVVT-i for cars with a standard wheelbase and a traditional 2.4-liter engine with a power of 170 hp for the long-wheelbase version. The power of the new generation engine with a displacement of 2.0 liters has been increased from 152 hp. up to 158 hp The 2.2-liter diesel engine produces either 150 hp or 180 hp in different versions.
The restyled version of the Toyota RAV4 also offers an updated line of transmissions: a new 6-speed manual transmission, a new continuously variable Multidrive S variator and a 4-speed automatic transmission (for the version with an extended wheelbase).
The buyer can choose from either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive is available with the 2.0-liter engine and 6-speed manual transmission.
The interior style was left the same, but the quality of materials was improved. The control devices in the cabin received Optitron backlighting, which significantly reduces driver eye fatigue. In addition, a combination of leather and Alcantara seat upholstery became available as an option. The modernized version also received a new steering wheel, which retained its flattened shape at the bottom, but on versions with a CVT it now had paddle shifters for “virtual gears”. The new steering wheel features controls for audio, voice commands, Bluetooth connectivity and the multifunction display. Russified navigation deserves special attention.
Out of a maximum five stars, the Toyota RAV4 received a four-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, as well as three stars for pedestrian safety.
Interior
Inside, the Toyota Rav 4 (III generation) looks more interesting. Manufacturers have refused to use premium materials. However, there were no severe savings on the quality of finishing. All plastic parts fit perfectly. When driving, nothing creaks or rustles.
The front panel can be visually divided into 2 tiers. The central element of the top one is the screen of the standard radio. Through it, some of the information necessary for the driver is provided. All controls are push-button. By modern standards, this looks like an anachronism, but previously it was considered breakthrough.
The second tier is completely dedicated to climate control equipment. This solution looks unusual. The three-spoke steering wheel has various additional control buttons. The Toyota Rav 4 (III generation) has no problems with ergonomics. All functions are activated quickly and with a minimum of movements.
The driver's seat is made in the spirit of Toyota. The back is wide and massive. Lateral support is not developed. During sharp turns, serious displacement of the body is possible. The rear sofa is large. However, tall people may suffer from some tightness in the knees.
Toyota RAV4 CA30 (2006-2010)
The growth that the crossover segment has shown in recent years gives rise to some concerns about the fate of other classes. Consumers are increasingly choosing a high seating position, increased ground clearance and some kind of off-road capabilities. Toyota’s successful model, the RAV4, played a significant role in this. We understand the nuances of buying a Japanese crossover on the secondary market.
Reviews from the owners of this SUV are full of enthusiastic epithets. That's why for many who aren't daunted by the prospect of owning a used car, a RAV4 under seven years old looks like a very interesting purchase. Unlike its predecessor, the Toyota RAV4 in the XA30 body (2005–2012 model year) was positioned by Toyota not as a mini-SUV, but as a compact-SUV and was supplied to our country not only officially, but also through the “gray” channel import, through which cars were imported from the USA, Canada and the UAE. Officially in Russia, versions were sold with only two engine options - 2.0- and 2.4-liter Valvematic four-cylinder engines with a Dual VVT-i variable valve timing system. The range of transmissions includes 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions, a Multidrive S CVT (2010–2012 onwards) and a 4-speed automatic (2005–2009 onwards). Optionally, for models with a 2.0-liter engine, a monodrive was available in combination with a 6-speed manual transmission.
In the third generation, the crossover lost permanent all-wheel drive, which somewhat reduced its “quotes” among fans of the model. Nevertheless, in terms of electronic assistants, the RAV4 of those years is doing very well even by modern standards. The Integrated Active Control System (IADS) coordinates the distribution of torque between the axles, and directional stability is ensured by Toyota's proprietary VSC system. The third generation RAV4 was equipped with electric power steering, ABS and emergency brake assist, as well as TRC traction control.
In a number of markets, the RAV4 was also equipped with diesel engines - a 2.0-liter D-4D (vehicles produced in 2005–2006), developing 114 hp. and 250 Nm in the range of 1800–3000 rpm, and a 2.2-liter engine (2007–2008 onwards) with a power of 134 hp. and 310 Nm in the range of 2000–2800 rpm. In the USA, versions with the 2AR-FE engine (2009–2012 onwards) were also available. With a volume of 2.5 liters, this unit produced 181 hp. and 233 Nm at 4000 rpm. From 2005 to 2012, the RAV4 was also sold in the North American market with a truly sporty 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine. It was this unit, which developed 270 hp. and 333 Nm at 4700 rpm, can be found under the hood of a Lotus Evora or Toyota Corolla (E140/E150), modified for participation in Super GT racing. But finding such a car on the secondary market is almost impossible.
Officially, the car was delivered to Russia in two versions - with a standard and a wheelbase extended by 100 mm. After the first restyling in 2009, the cars were produced on both standard and long wheelbases. In 2010, the car underwent another restyling. The appearance of the crossover has been significantly changed: the design of the front of the car has been completely redesigned to give more dynamics to the image. At the same time, the LWB version in our country was sold with the appearance of the 2009 model until the end of the life of this body.
In total, there were five configuration options in Russia: “Standard”, “Comfort”, “Elegance”, “Prestige” and “Prestige +”. Starting with the “Comfort” package, the car was equipped with a multifunction sports leather steering wheel, separate climate control with a cooled glove compartment, light and rain sensors, as well as a wireless mobile phone connection system via bluetooth. In the “Prestige+” configuration, the car is equipped with a Russified navigation system. The long-wheelbase version of the car was sold only in the Comfort+ and Prestige Plus trim levels. All RAV4 trims with the Multidrive S continuously variable transmission are equipped with paddle shifters for manual CVT mode. Versions with manual transmission were offered only in the “Standard” and “Comfort” configurations.
On the secondary market, the price of RAV4 XA30 2007. starts from 550 thousand rubles, but the price tag for copies in good condition is 100–120 thousand higher. For a 2009 car they are already asking more than 850 thousand rubles.
Engine
Like many brands with a long history, Toyota has managed to acquire traditions. One of them is that to extend the life of a model on the market, it is subjected to multiple upgrades, not only noticeable externally, but also internally, at the unit level. The third generation RAV4 was no exception: the number of modifications within this generation alone is expressed in double digits and requires separate consideration, which is extremely useful for a potential buyer!
At the beginning of its life on the assembly line in December 2005, the RAV4 received a set of power units from the previous body, produced since 2000 - 1AZ-FE (2.0 l) and 2AZ-FE (2.4 l). Already at that time they did not shine with outstanding characteristics, but still possessed the main feature - reliability. They were slightly modernized, raising the power to 152 hp. and 170 hp accordingly (hereinafter, the power will be given according to the European measurement method). So, these same 152 hp. - a big stone in the garden of the company’s marketers. They lost sight of the nuances of Russian taxation and, compared to 150 hp. in the previous generation, an insignificant increase of two “horses” almost doubled the tax! The Japanese repeated their mistake four years later, but then they still found the strength to correct it.
The main result of engine modernization is the simplification of the emission control system while maintaining the requirements of Euro-4 standards and their American analogues. Previously, a system was used that was too complex for a 4-cylinder in-line internal combustion engine with two sections of catalysts (each for its own pair of cylinders - 1.4 + 2.3), with four oxygen sensors installed, two of which were expensive broadband (otherwise it would not meet the required environmental standards was no longer possible). By the third generation of RAV4, Toyota switched to the “conventional” scheme - one common catalyst for all cylinders and two oxygen sensors.
To be fair, it must be said that the service life of all these parts with adequate operation is at least 250 thousand km, but the next owner of a used car will still have to deal with replacing them. The cost of oxygen sensors is from 1.9–6 thousand rubles. for trouble-free and high-quality products from famous brands (Bosch, Delphy, NGK, Denso).
Among the defects in the initial period of operation, leakage from the water pump seal was recorded en masse at mileages of 40–60 thousand km, but almost all cars of that period were repaired under warranty, and current buyers have nothing to worry about - if the pump did not leak then, it steadily leaks its typical Toyota resource is 250–300 thousand km. And there were no more specific problems with this generation of power units.
With regular oil changes, the VVT-i variable valve timing system and chain should not cause problems. But you should be prepared to replace the pump. The cost of this unit is from 1.2 thousand rubles. for products from Dolz, Jacoparts, Magneti Marelli up to 3 thousand for an analogue from SKF or Valeo. If it is necessary to replace the radiator, then this is also not the most expensive part - from 2 thousand for a little-known Asian brand to 5–5.8 thousand rubles. for a product from Nissens, AVA or Sakura.
It was possible to kill the engine ahead of schedule only due to the complete carelessness of the owners. The 1AZ-FE engine is designed for operation on gasoline with an octane number of 95 (according to the European RON method), but it also allows 92 with some loss of power, and the 2AZ-FE is initially designed for 92. Such reliability and unpretentiousness can play a cruel joke on the unlucky buyer of a used copy, especially from the North American market or (yes, don’t be surprised!) From Japan. The reason for this is simple - there the RAV4 is considered a car in the budget segment, so the attitude towards it in most cases is spartan: the oil in the engine and components does not change at all, only the staff at the gas station adds cheap mineral water to the engine when refueling...
Toyota maintains its 100 thousand km warranty anyway, and then they simply give it up for trade-in and drive off with a new one. Then it is bought cheaply at an auction, sent to the ferry - and now it’s a shining beauty on the Lyubertsy market, and none of the resellers care that the engine can barely hold pressure, and there is no smoke yet - the catalyst is still quite fresh. Therefore, we recommend that you first of all pay attention to cars that were originally produced for Russia and sold here through a network of official dealers, for which you can check the service history at least during the warranty period (and this means replacing only synthetic engine oil strictly after 10 thousand km). Such machines are on average more expensive, but in the future the costs of their operation will be lower. Think for yourself - good cars are expensive even overseas, it’s simply not profitable to import them here.
When talking about cars from the American market, it is worth making a reservation that there, too, everything very much depends on the owners. American sites like Edmunds.сom contain a lot of enthusiastic reviews from RAV4 owners of all generations, reporting trouble-free operation of the crossover with a range of 150–200 thousand miles.
Transmissions
Five-speed manual transmissions coupled with the 1AZ-FE engine are absolutely reliable and problem-free, the mileage of clutch parts, if you do not use the car as a tractor for a summer cottage on wheels (which is not uncommon in Europe and the USA), is 150–200 thousand km - completely typical for Toyota numbers. The situation is similar with the 4-speed automatic transmission U140 - one of the most popular and used on many models, including the Lexus RX with 6-cylinder engines. It will also not cause any trouble with adequate operation and periodic oil changes (it was during this generation that fully synthetic WS brand oil began to be used in automatic transmissions, which formally does not require replacement, but transmission experts still recommend changing it at least every 100 thousand km ). A resource of 400–500 thousand km is not at all uncommon for it. A rare but harmless defect is increased noise from the planetary gear at low speed. On cars of the first years of production, there was a defect in the form of a leak in the left drive oil seal, but in 2007 a modernized part was released, and the problem disappeared.
But with the powerful 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine, with which the RAV4 was sold in the USA, Canada and Japan, this trouble-free unit may give up earlier - its planetary gearbox is simply too weak for such a powerful engine. In this case, the automatic transmission may require repair at the turn of 100–150 thousand km, depending on the driving style, but due to its high prevalence, the price for repairs will not be higher than the market average.
The front transfer case is a primitive angular gearbox and is reliable by definition: routine oil changes every 40 thousand km, as practice has shown, are completely unnecessary; it is quite acceptable to double this interval. But this attitude is completely inapplicable to the rear differential! It has a rather complex design in one block with a “wet” electric coupling for connecting the rear drive. The subtlety lies in the small volume of oil poured into the crankcase of this unit - only 0.55 liters. By the time of scheduled replacement (every 40 thousand km), it practically loses its protective properties, and over-mileage here is extremely undesirable. Although this unit is being repaired with the replacement of parts, there is no point in bringing it to this point - in any case, the rebuilt unit cannot be of the same quality as on a Japanese assembly line.
When operating in regions where the temperature drops below -30 0C in winter, it is advisable to change the oil of standard viscosity 80W-90, filled at the factory, to 75W-90 (strictly according to API GL-5), otherwise oil that has become too thick in the cold may be squeezed out through the seals . There are no complaints about the cardan transmission - often its service life exceeds the life of the machine itself, before it could only fail due to mechanical damage. According to the assembly technology, cardan joints do not change, so it is often easier and more profitable to find a whole used part.
Electrics
On the electrical side, almost everything is in the same Toyota traditions - simple and reliable. The only defect noted was burnt contacts in the brake light switch on the brake pedal. However, the computer that controls the ABS and ESP system will display an error message much earlier than the complete failure of the part, and the owner will have time to calmly solve the problem - clean the contacts or install a new unit. If a keyless entry system with a radio tag key is used, then it is recommended to replace the power element (CR1632) at least once every 1.5 years, but even if the battery is completely dead, a backup start is provided. If you lose the key fob, you can buy it yourself, but “making friends” with the system is only possible with a proprietary scanner with legal access to the Toyota database. Hacker options usually result in complete loss of data or “promiscuity” - the system will randomly consider any tag “its own”.
Suspension and steering
There are also virtually no complaints about the parts of the front suspension, made according to the classic MacPherson pattern, long worked out by the Japanese. Original shock absorbers, struts and stabilizer bushings can easily overcome the mark of 100–150 thousand km, although there have been cases of oil being squeezed out in the harsh Siberian winter with frosts below -40 0C. And although such operating conditions cannot be called typical - rather, it is a survival test, Toyota is one of the leaders here too. Cost of shock absorbers: front (KYB) - 3–4.5 thousand rubles. (original Toyota ones - 5 thousand); rear — 1.9–2.5 thousand rubles. (Boge, Sachs). Silent blocks - from 600 rubles. for Delphy brand products.
A slightly weaker link is the steering rack. On cars of the first years of production, a design miscalculation was made when choosing the material for the manufacture of the inner bushing, which is why it “floated” during sharp turns on a fully turned steering wheel and an increased gap was formed, causing knocking when driving on uneven surfaces. You can safely drive with such a defect for as long as you like, but if you wish, you can replace the rack with a modernized one (it is also suitable for early models) or replace only the worn bushing in specialized companies (Toyota itself does not offer handicraft repairs). The cost of a steering rack varies greatly. For MSG brand products (“Asian” with Italian “registration”) they ask for a modest 8.5 thousand rubles, while a product in the original packaging costs 19 thousand.
The rear suspension also deserves a special mention. In pursuit of a large luggage compartment volume and good handling, the designers made the suspension itself rather short-travel, which reduced its comfort on bad roads. And when it is suddenly activated “all the way” on a deep pothole or hole, a noticeable shock is transmitted to the body. This unpleasant property can be cured in two ways. The first is replacing shock absorbers with more energy-intensive ones, for example Koni models for bad roads. For a car with high mileage and already worn-out standard shock absorbers, this option is preferable. An alternative that Toyota uses during the warranty period following an owner’s complaint (according to a special service bulletin) is to replace the rear trailing arms of the suspension with arms with solid s/w. Such a replacement eliminates the main defect, but two unpleasant consequences remain - the need to adjust the wheel angles (alignment/camber) after replacement and a general increase in suspension stiffness when driving. Another visible specific feature is the threaded parts of the stabilizer link protruding far down beyond the lower arm. This is a feature of the assembly technology; the protruding parts can be safely cut off if you are confident that these racks will no longer be used.
In addition to the fact that, being new, the car was very popular among car thieves, as a result of which the owners suffered from the high cost of comprehensive insurance, the design of the third generation RAV4 contained another “bait” for car thieves. This is not a very good solution with the location of the spare tire on the tailgate. It is successful only in two respects: it does not take up space in the luggage compartment and can be easily removed; the overall silhouette of the car is more harmonious with it. But the downside is a large load on the hinges, which after 3-4 years develop play (to replace the top one, you also need to dismantle the side trim of the luggage compartment and the canopy), deterioration of visibility through the rear window and easy accessibility for villains, especially the cap itself. For the US and European markets, a modification was also produced without a spare wheel on the rear door, but in this case there was none at all, only a can of tire sealant was included in the kit - but this option is hardly acceptable on Russian roads.
Toyota RAV4 3 engines
In Russia, the car was sold only in 2 engine options. Models with:
- 0-liter gasoline engine;
- 4-liter gasoline engine.
Both power plants run exclusively on AI-95. It is not recommended to fill with gasoline of inferior quality.
The first engine produces 152 horsepower with a torque of 194 N/m. The top speed is limited to 190 km/h. At the same time, the car accelerates to hundreds in 10.2 seconds. In the combined cycle, consumption is 8.6 liters.
The second engine is 28 horsepower more powerful. The torque is 224 N/m. The maximum speed of the car is the same. However, the presented variation of Toyota Rav 4 (III generation) is slower. Acceleration to hundreds is higher by 0.4 seconds. The car is a little more voracious. In the combined cycle you will have to spend 1 liter of gasoline more.
Read: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Features
We are buying a third generation Toyota RAV4. Firewood for eight hundred. And there is no ideal for a million or so
If dealership centers offer almost no opportunity to save money (there are no basic versions, others are loaded with extras), then the second hand market is easy. Having decided on a certain model, select older ones and you will probably save one or two or even three hundred thousand rubles. But does this method work when you want to find something that is not only cheaper, but also in good condition? In our new section, using real cars from the market as an example, we will try to answer this question. As with others: what is the general condition of this or that model; what to look for when buying it; Is it worth contacting her at all? The first hero is a Toyota RAV4 in the back of an XA30 produced in 2005–2013.
From the dealer or from the east
Why “Ravik” is easy to explain - on the secondary market it is one of the best-selling and most sought-after crossovers. Why third generation? Representatives of the first generation (1994–2000) are more suitable for our “People's Retro” section. You have to look for a decent copy for months, and it’s advisable not to immediately flatter yourself with hopes of buying one with left-hand drive - they’re so exhausted. Moreover, prices only start from 200,000 rubles. The real price tag is 280,000–350,000. For the most well-maintained cars they ask for 400,000, half a million, or even more.
The second generation RAV4 (2000–2005) was sold by Toyota dealers that had already appeared en masse. But, let’s say, in the east of Russia more right-hand drive cars are in use. And their condition will be better. Cost - from 350,000 to 800,000 rubles. The average price is half a million or slightly higher. However, finding a worthy example is no less difficult than a debut generation car.
The fourth “Ravik” (2012–2019), at least among the newer ones, for the most part has not yet been rolled out by Russian exploitation. And very expensive. The minimum you can buy it for is 1.15 million rubles. However, there are plenty of such crossovers across the country. It’s better to count on an amount of 1.4 million. And even better, increase it by three hundred thousand. Then the choice will be much richer. Some SUVs aged two to four years cost 2,500,000 rubles. For this money you can buy a pair of Kia Rios or even the current generation Ravik.
So the third RAV4 is the golden mean. It’s not very old (what does 8–16 years mean to our people, who are used to a used car; especially since it’s a Toyota!) and compared to its descendants, it’s not incredibly expensive. Cars before restyling and with the first update can be purchased for 600,000–800,000 rubles.
Although a little over a million will significantly expand the search area. Sellers of Ravchik with a mid-2010 facelift also sometimes dump - 800,000–950,000 rubles.
But it is logical that in these years there are many cars costing from 1.1–1.2 million. The maximum is one and a half and more. In general, to put it bluntly, what if a million rubles are enough to buy a “living” car? Or maybe you can still save money? By the way, the price, as a rule, is increased by a larger engine, the original (not replaced) title and the number of entries in it (naturally, the fewer, the better).
From Moscow or from the outskirts
Choose for yourself? Of course, a preliminary examination can be done based on your own experience, whoever has it. However, even without taking into account the technical condition, there is a chance of running into a car with restrictions and simply stolen. Moreover, the RAV4 is at risk. Having become a fairly large crossover in the third generation, it is popular. At one time it was sold well in Moscow and St. Petersburg. And those cars are still traveling around the regions. And metropolitan operation leaves a certain imprint on both the documented cleanliness of the car and its technical condition.
The auto-selection service is now quite widely developed. But there are plenty of dishonest people here too. We wrote about this in detail and while preparing that material we met a representative of this direction. His professional approach inspired confidence, and in this raid it will be Alexander Tyumenev who will play first fiddle. And the author does this by recording everything he saw and heard. A short meeting in the car with a choice of specimens to look at, and off we go.
2006, 2.0 l, declared mileage 116,000 km, 805,000 rubles.
From a distance this "Ravik" looks good. Up close, he easily demonstrates his Moscow past. One of the bolts holding the left front fender is bent. The exhaust manifold screen has traces of rust and is poorly painted on top. The engine number is difficult to read due to rust.
The same “silver bullet”, it seems, was “blown” on the bottom of the doors. And it is already blooming. The shock absorber mounting nuts are characteristically coated and their cups are also rusty. And also a “TV” and a stretcher. The thresholds are puttied and painted.
In addition, Alexander notices that the steering wheel braid has been altered, noting that the factory one lasts up to approximately 250,000 km. And the already abrading paint on the outer bolster of the driver's seat cushion, whose eco-leather had obviously been restored. But the coating on the front panel is original. At least it's some kind of plus.
1AZ smokes - both gray, which indicates “oil burnt”, and black, which indicates an incorrect air-fuel mixture.
Nevertheless, the lady showing us the car is ready to drop only 10,000–15,000 rubles to paint that worn wing that they once unsuccessfully tried to unscrew.
Let's look at the VIN. It is located under the passenger seat in the RAV4. And my guide into the world of choosing a car explains that if a strip with a number is cut out, then sometimes (when there is a donor car) they do this with the entire floor reinforcement on which it is located. You need to remove the plastic of the threshold and look at the spot welding - whether it is factory or not. If a part of the amplifier has been cut out, it is problematic to determine this, since noise insulation interferes.
You need to look at other signs, about which a little later. In any case, this car is a rather problematic purchase.
2011, 2.0 l, declared mileage 132,000 km, 910,000 rubles.
A very tempting price, considering that this is a restyled RAV4. Alas, the owner is not next to him, nor are the keys to him at the parking lot. You can only come to the private sector and assess the condition from the outside.
It's enough. The starboard side is painted. This can be seen from the shagreen and from the fact that the varnish has begun to peel off from the front fender.
In addition, the thresholds are rotting, which gives away the former “home port”. The reagents that are used to sprinkle roads in Moscow and St. Petersburg will be more aggressive than sea salt.
There is nothing further to see. Alexander says that there are cases when the so-called “quarter” is cut out and welded - a part of the body with a side member, threshold, floor and roof pillar. In an accident, the VIN under the seat can easily get compromised. But even if this does not happen, during registration the car may be sent for examination due to questionable welded joints. And there he may be considered unsafe and ultimately, according to Alexander, denied registration. In general, the units are not worth checking - not an option.
2007, 2.0 l, declared mileage 203,000 km, 818,000 rubles.
The car came from Perm and therefore is not rotten. Except that the ribs under the thresholds turn red. Obviously, because tire shops place jacks with a platform under them. The ribs become wrinkled and begin to bloom over time.
Another shortcoming is revealed to the specialist - this time a fundamental one. The roof of this "Ravchik" was replaced. At the junction of it with the rear wings, sealant is thickly smeared, which is cracking with all its might. The metal underneath and under the trunk door seal is corroding.
This is what the factory connection should look like.
In addition, the body was “dusted”, the headlights were polished (the fastenings on one were broken), and the rear door was slightly corrected.
However, the curtain airbags did not deploy. Usually, as my interlocutor says, they are rolled back under the ceiling and secured with something at hand. There are still factory ties here. And, as you understand, no one will restore the pillows.
Alexander suggests that this Toyota lay neatly in a snowdrift in winter. The roof was dented, but the rest of the bodywork, not so much.
2010, 2.0 l, declared mileage 135,000 km, 1,280,000 rubles.
Another “Muscovite”, sold on the car market and outwardly looking perfect.
True, the right rear fender and the right rear door were slightly ground in. However, none of this changed.
But the subframe, again with the consequences of the work of Moscow road workers.
We look at the edge of the glue in the area of the duplicate identification plate with ultraviolet light. If it is not original, it has been re-glued, then, most likely, traces of the factory sticker will be visible around it. Everything is fine here.
We check the engine with a scanner - a 2.0-liter 3ZR-FAE, which appeared with the second restyling and is paired with a CVT. There are some minor deviations in the fuel system, but these are minor things.
The only annoying thing is that the steering wheel rim is covered with a makeshift braid, and in order to remove it, you need to rip out the seam. In addition, the configuration declared as “Prestige” has fabric upholstery on the door cards, a simple climate control unit and... leather seats? No, only covers that imitate them.
For a similar level of equipment and year of manufacture, almost three hundred million is too expensive.
2010, 2.0 l, 1,199,000 rubles.
Another “capital resident” and again on the trading floor. And without rye and especially rot. Alexander says that these are very rare to come across - the car could have been operated not in Moscow itself, but in the Moscow region, where the snow is still pristinely clean. At first glance, it's a good example. But with the starboard side ground in and painted underneath.
2011, 2.4 l, declared mileage 155,000 km, 1,288,000 rubles.
In the car market we find the Long version, which was not affected by the facelift characteristic of the short RAV4. Also from Moscow.
And again, without the typical traces of a “chemical attack.” We're lucky.
On the body there are, as they say, “outbids”, “life problems”. The front bumper sag slightly.
But the paintwork is original, which is confirmed by the same chips and thickness gauge. The equipment is average, 2AZ-FE here drives the wheels through an automatic transmission. For most consumers, such a power plant is a plus. Adds attractiveness and value to the car. A good option? Unfortunately, the 2.4-liter four also smokes slightly black. It is necessary to check the condition of the fuel system. The bad thing is that there was no power to the diagnostic block. Either the wiring fell off somewhere, or it was specially disconnected. We were unable to scan the car. When making a real purchase, I would like to establish the reasons for this. If, of course, the seller allows it.
And one more observation - all the examples from the flea market have rear tires with tread worn out on the outside. Either they were re-shoeed from the same “feet”. Either the RAV4 XA30 characteristically changes wheel alignment angles over time.
2010, 2.0 l, declared mileage 156,000 km, 1,158,000 rubles.
Wow, this “Ravik” came to Siberia from the North Caucasus. Therefore, there can be no talk of any rust.
The front part of the hood, roof and roof pillars are covered with anti-chip film.
However, another fact about the body is surprising - the abnormally thick paintwork. Everywhere!
Alexander notes that the coating is factory-made. And he adds that it is very likely that there was some mispainting on the assembly line, and the body was sent for repainting. This is usually typical for VAG. And for Toyota, over several years of work, he encountered this less than ten times. Nothing criminal! But it will be extremely difficult to prove this to the next buyer.
Another nuance is the heavily worn steering wheel and gearbox lever. The seller says that he did not specially prepare the car. However, it is quite obvious that someone has adjusted the value on the odometer.
We diagnose the engine and gearbox with a scanner. According to the first one, a certain “start-up malfunction” pops up. Apparently, due to the fact that the battery was dead and there were already problems with it.
The scanner is not able to diagnose a knocking noise in the “head” area that appears as the engine warms up. It is logical to think that this is a malfunction of the Valvematic mechanism. But no, the stethoscope is pointing at the exhaust camshaft.
The reason may be increased valve clearance, wear of its seat, or wear on the cam shaft. An autopsy will tell for sure.
The day is over, the ideal RAV4 in terms of technical condition and price has not been found. Is this even possible? Let's give the floor to our specialist:
Alexander Tyumenev
More than six years of experience as a pick-up operator
— The vast majority of cars in the regions are from Moscow and St. Petersburg. It is extremely rare to come across stainless specimens among them. The rest are with varying degrees of rot. So, if the RAV4 of the first and second generations had rotted sills, front pillar cups and rear fenders, then the XA30 needs to look at the same sills, “TV” and the power unit subframe.
At the same time, if recently “outbidders” chose cars, now they don’t bother. They buy “Tradin” cars from the capital’s dealer, not paying attention to their condition. The main thing is that they are in their original paint and have fewer owners. Everything will go away in the provinces. Almost the ideal option is to purchase a car that was previously purchased from a local dealer. But, according to my observations, there are only one of these in the third generation out of twenty. So the selection of “Ravik” may take a month or a month and a half. The situation, of course, is better than with the first and second generations. For example, it took me four months to find my father’s first RAV4. And the XA20 cannot be found alive for half a million. However, now the economic situation is such that there are noticeably fewer good cars. After all, people often sold the same “Ravchiki” in order to buy a larger and more expensive car from a dealer. But there is no money, and they continue to drive what they have. Although copies from owners who bought a car of a higher class were often the best purchase. "Outbuyers" will not give away a good car cheaply. In trade-in and in companies specializing in second-hand resale, prices are even more 10–15% higher.
In addition, about a year and a half ago they grew significantly. For 1.3 million rubles then you could buy a Highlander of a comparable year. Now only RAV4. And don’t flatter yourself with the hope of buying a good “Ravik” before restyling for 700,000–800,000 rubles. Or a restyled one for 900,000.
The problem with all Toyotas is that the mileage on them is adjusted easily and without consequences in the memory of various blocks. The mileage must be tracked using various databases and determined based on the current state of, say, the interior. On some of the cars we examined, it is at least more than 200,000 km. On some, up to 300,000. At the same time, the service life of AZ motors is approximately equal to this value. Well, or not much more.
We must not forget about the legal purity of cars. The number on the floor reinforcement under the front passenger seat is not the same as the number on the engine panel. It is difficult to determine the corrected VIN in this case. We need to look at other things. On the sign in the driver's door opening. On the font of numbers. In the documents.
I had a case - I looked a couple of years ago for a third-generation RAV4 client. At the "outbid". 2008, declared mileage of 65,000 km, impeccable condition, 860,000 rubles. These were the prices then. What was alarming was that the perimeter of the identification plate did not correspond to the boundaries of the glue. That is, there were traces of the old sign.
I also noticed the font of the VIN numbers, which differs from the factory one. Subsequently, I learned that the car was taken from the regional center to be sold in a small town. And they sold it. And when registering with the traffic police (obviously, the seller was not present), it turned out that it was stolen in St. Petersburg, was sold in Moscow, and then came to Siberia. The car was returned to the previous owner. The buyer was left without his purchase and without money.
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Toyota Previa III generation - family minivan from Japan
Toyota Previa III. Photo taken from the Yandex Images service Asian countries are famous for their love of minivans, and Japan can easily be called the leader in the number of different models of family minivans. True, most interesting models are sold only on the domestic market and rarely officially enter Europe, the USA, and especially Russia. Our today's hero, Toyota Previa III, was lucky enough to enter the markets of the USA and Europe (it was also sold in other countries, for example the UAE)
Toyota Previa III. Photo taken from the Yandex Pictures service
Toyota Previa III generation has absorbed all the best from its predecessors. There is a modern, but not pretentious exterior design, a dimensionless, transformable interior and reliable hardware.
The driver's seat is distinguished by an unusual arrangement of the dashboard, however, this feature was inherited from the previous version of the car and you get used to this ergonomics quite quickly. The windshield is large, the pillars are narrow - this provides excellent visibility. The driver's seat is very comfortable and allows you to cover long distances.
The salon is seven-seater, with a convenient transformation system. The absence of a tunnel makes the floor space flat, which makes the interior seem even larger. The second row seats are very comfortable with two armrests; you can relax in them during the trip and not get tired. The third row has full-fledged seats, they are also very comfortable and convenient. The trunk, with three rows folded down, is not the largest, but if the seats are folded down, there will be more than enough space. In addition, there are a bunch of glove compartments, niches and pockets.
The choice of engines is not that big. Junior 2.4 l. gasoline with a power of 170 hp and senior 3.5 liters. gasoline, power 271 hp Manual and automatic transmission. The engines, as well as the gearboxes, are very reliable and durable.
On the secondary market, the Toyota Previa III is valued quite well, but there are not so many offers. The cost depends on the year of manufacture. For example, a car manufactured in 2014, with a mileage of 81,000 km, with a 2.4 liter engine with a power of 170 hp. and automatic transmission will cost 1,900,000 rubles.
Toyota Previa III is an excellent and comfortable family minivan for families and fans of single-volume vehicles. Most importantly, in addition to the interior volume and attractive appearance, the Toyota Previa has remained as reliable and trouble-free as its predecessors.
Source our channel on the Yandex Zen service
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