One Toyota RAV4 Model Year Outperforms The Rest In Reliability
We consulted reputable sources like Car Complaints, J.D. Power, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Here, we scoured through consumer complaints and recalls.
Importantly, we took into account both the severity of complaints/recalls and the total number of them, since not every automotive recall is serious enough to significantly affect long-term reliability.
Looking at Toyota RAV4 reliability records by year, we have also excluded RAV4s from the 2021 model year and newer, as these model years are too new to accurately assess how dependable they'll be.
All things considered, the 2018 model is what we consider the best year for the Toyota RAV4, if reliability is the key consideration. This model is the last of the fourth-generation RAV4, and often, the most recent model years of a specific generation are especially reliable, since manufacturers will have had enough time to sort through any early issues.
The 2018 RAV4 has just 33 issues logged on Car Complaints, lower than all other fourth-gen RAV4s. On the NHTSA, it has three recalls, but two are for incorrect load-carrying labels, which have nothing to do with reliability. The third is for an unsecured battery that could short circuit, but all that's needed here is a replacement of the battery clamp sub-assembly, which has very likely been done by now. Furthermore, a stellar quality and reliability rating of 88 out of 100 from J.D. Power confirms this RAV4's high dependability.
No vehicle is perfect, and the 2018 RAV4 does have some issues related to jerky transmission shifts, brake problems, and stalling issues. However, these appear isolated, with no clear pattern of any major faults.
A large part of the 2018 RAV4's solidity comes down to its straightforward mechanicals. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine has no turbochargers or electrification to worry about. Although it produces just 176 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, it has good mid-range torque, and with proper maintenance, this engine can last for many thousands of miles.
Complementing the reliable four-pot is a simple six-speed automatic transmission; this is a conventional torque converter automatic, unlike the RAV4 Hybrid, which uses a CVT. Speaking of the hybrid, it makes 194 hp combined, so is a better performer. While reliable, there are more components in the hybrid's powertrain, so we'd trust the standard 2.5L with front-wheel drive for the most risk-free RAV4 experience.
According to RepairPal, the annual repair cost for the 2018 Toyota RAV4 works out to $424, whereas the average for all compact SUVs is almost $100 more annually, at $521. Not only is the 2018 Toyota RAV4 reliable, but it won't cost much to maintain, either.
Adding to the reasonable running costs is the FWD model's commendable efficiency, at 23/30/26 mpg city/highway/combined. With AWD, the 2018 RAV4 returns 22/28/25 mpg. The EPA estimates annual fuel costs of $1,800 for the FWD RAV4, assuming you cover 15,000 miles per year. This figure is also based on the current price of a gallon of gas, so is subject to change.
According to Kelley Blue Book, a base 2018 Toyota RAV4 LE will cost just under $16,000 today, compared to its original MSRP of $27,464. The range-topping Platinum model will be approximately $21k today. These low prices, combined with the Toyota RAV4's reliability, make the 2018 model quite tempting.
Those prices will get you behind the wheel of an exceptionally reliable and practical crossover that can still last for many years. Yes, the fourth-gen RAV4 isn't the most exciting vehicle on the planet, but most RAV4 customers are more than willing to trade a thrilling drive for the peace of mind that comes with owning a Toyota.
Almost any Toyota RAV4 can be considered reliable if cared for, but there are a few other best years for the Toyota RAV4 in terms of sheer reliability.
2000 Toyota RAV4: First Generation
The most recent first-gen RAV4 is now 25 years old, but it has a strong reliability record and few major complaints. Look out for a problematic airbag inflator, which is the most serious issue. Other than that, it's a frill-free crossover, and you can even get in sporty two-door form. It's one of the best RAV4 years.
2004 Toyota RAV4: Second Generation
A mere 20 complaints were logged on Car Complaints for the 2004 RAV4. The 2002 model has 519 complaints, showing just how much reliability improved in a fairly short space of time. Part of the second generation, the 2004 model introduced a new 2.4-liter engine, which was more powerful but still reliable. The only red flag is the 2004 RAV4's involvement in the Takata airbag debacle, which affected millions of vehicles from various brands. If you look for a 2004 RAV4, make sure it has had its airbags checked. Other than that, it can be considered one of the RAV4's best years.
There are few more logical used car purchases than a Toyota RAV4. With the all-new sixth-generation model recently revealed, we expect a new generation of buyers to enjoy the safety, reliability, and value imbued across all generations of the RAV4.
The 2018 model, in particular, represents Toyota RAV4 dependability at its best. If you can find one with a full service history, it should be dependable for years to come and fairly affordable to fix if anything does go wrong.
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
44 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Your Guide to Buying a Hybrid Car or Truck in 2025
Hybrid vehicles—those combining an internal-combustion engine with one or more electric motors to power the wheels—come in all shapes and sizes. Folks seeking a fuel-efficient option are no longer limited to the Toyota Priuses and gas-sipping Hondas of the world, and even those models have come a long way from their humble beginnings a couple decades back. Regardless of whether or not you're specifically on the hunt for a gas-electric vehicle, chances are one or more will end up on your radar given the proliferation of this type of powertrain throughout the auto industry. We've created this guide to help shoppers of new and used hybrids understand their advantages, the differences between standard gas-electrics and plug-in models, new and used options, and any tax incentives that may be applicable. Why Consider a Hybrid? More and more models on the market today either offer a hybrid version or come only in gas-electric form. In the latter case, if that's the car you want, the decision to go hybrid is an easy one. If, however, you're deciding between gas-only and hybrid models, the choice may be more nuanced. Thanks to fuel-saving features such as regenerative braking and generally smaller, more-efficient engines that can call up an electric assist when needed, most hybrid vehicles use less fuel than comparable models, particularly when driving at lower speeds. On the other hand, at higher speeds, such as in our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, hybrids tend to underperform their window-sticker value. Depending on how you drive, owning a hybrid has the potential to save you money at the pump and has benefits for the environment. But because of their more complex powertrains, hybrids tend to cost a little more upfront. That means it may take a few years to pay back the price premium. If you're not into math, the EPA's website offers a helpful comparison tool that will let you compare a hybrid vehicle with its nonhybrid counterpart, taking into account the prices of the two models, how many miles you drive annually, what portion of your driving is in the city, and the price of fuel. It will then spit out a personalized payback period that you can use to help decide. For instance, comparing a 2025 Kia Sportage EX AWD hybrid with the nonhybrid version and leaving the default values alone—15,000 miles per year, with 55 percent of them in the city, at $3.21 per gallon—shows that the $1300 price premium of the hybrid model would take two years to repay. Drive more miles per year, and the payback will happen sooner. Using less fuel and the accompanying monetary savings aren't the only reasons to opt for a hybrid, however. Hybridized sporty cars prioritize increased output over saving fuel. Examples include monster-power options from Mercedes-AMG and Bentley, as well as the plug-in Ferrari SF90. If you're looking for a hybrid pickup truck or SUV, it's a similar story with some models, such as many from Toyota, that get gas mileage that's equivalent compared to those of the nonhybrid powertrains they replace but yield more output. So a hybridized four-cylinder can make more power and torque than an unassisted V-6 engine without burning more fuel. Standard Hybrids vs. Plug-Ins Assuming you're open to a gas-electric powertrain, you may have one more decision to make. Within the hybrid category are two major sub-types: standard hybrids, which get their power solely from liquid fuel, and plug-in hybrids, which have larger onboard batteries that can be juiced by an external source, much like an EV. Plug-ins, or PHEVs, can also drive substantially further on electric-only power (typically between 15 and 40 miles) than can regular hybrids. Again, some models come only one way or the other, while popular vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4 can be had with either type of hybrid powertrain. Plug-ins tend to cost more due to their larger battery packs and more powerful electric motors, but they usually also outdo their standard-hybrid counterparts' fuel-economy ratings. You'll have to do the math to determine which makes more sense for you financially. Regarding charging, whether or not to go for a plug-in has more to do with where you park than how you drive. That high-capacity battery and charging port don't do you any good if you never make use of them. So if you street park or live in an apartment or condo that won't accommodate the installation of charging equipment, a plug-in probably doesn't make sense for you. But if you can plug in overnight at home or during your 9-to-5—preferably both—most if not all of your commute and daily errand-running may be covered by a plug-in's electric-only range. As long as you're not charging at pricey public stations, the cost per mile is much lower when running on electricity than gasoline. And unlike with an EV, a plug-in still has a fuel tank and gas engine to let you extend its comfortable range without having to worry about where to stop or how long it will take to refuel. New vs. Used Choosing between a brand-new or a pre-owned hybrid or plug-in often comes down to budget. Like any used vehicle, a hybrid depreciates—loses some of its value—over time, making the pre-owned route more affordable when comparing similar models. That said, hybrids sometimes hold their value better than nonhybrids. This brings us back to the payback calculation discussed earlier. You mileage and results may vary. We have separate guides on buying pre-owned and shopping for new vehicles that can help you decide, as well. There's also the option of a certified pre-owned vehicle for those who want the extra peace of mind that a longer warranty provides. Available Incentives Should you settle on a new or used plug-in hybrid, there may be some extra savings in your future. PHEVs with a battery capacity above 7 kWh and meeting some other requirements are eligible for a tax break. For new plug-ins, the price cap is an MSRP of $80,000 for trucks and SUVs, or $55,000 for cars; used PHEVs must sell for less than $25,000 to qualify. There are also household income limits for who can take advantage of these credits. The IRS spells everything out clearly in documents for new and used vehicles. Note that these tax breaks are set to expire on September 30, 2025. If you want to take advantage, you must purchase the vehicle by that date. Your state may offer additional incentives, so be sure to read up on those before making your selection. Whether your goal is to save fuel, save money, or maximize power, there's a new or used hybrid that's right for you. Follow our advice, and you'll get a good deal on the right gas-electric vehicle to suit your needs and wants. You Might Also Like Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars through the Decades How to Buy or Lease a New Car Lightning Lap Legends: Chevrolet Camaro vs. Ford Mustang!
Miami Herald
an hour ago
- Miami Herald
2008 Tesla Roadster For Sale With Just 1,821 Miles
There's a lot that can be said about Tesla as a company today, but the Tesla Roadster is largely an exception to those criticisms. Based on a Lotus Elise chassis, the automaker's first car was both sleek and impressive, and this 2008 example on Exotic Car Trader with 1,821 miles is a relatively rare sighting of a Tesla Roadster on the open market. The Roadster was an impressive machine when it was released, being the first highway-legal production car to use lithium-ion batteries, with a 53 kWh pack onboard. Charging time varies, but if one uses a 240 V charger on a 90 A circuit breaker, Tesla claimed a recharging rate of 56 miles added per hour. The electric motor produces 248 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque, which are sent to the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission. Tesla quoted a 0-60 mph time of around four seconds, which is nothing to scoff at, especially in 2008. Regenerative braking is present, of course, and the Roadster sports both front and rear independent suspension. The EPA gave it a 244-mile range, which isn't great by today's standards but was a good number back then. Uniquely, the body panels are all carbon fiber, keeping the weight down for both performance and range-related reasons. The NHTSA also granted the Roadster a waiver from the advantage two-stage airbag rule, allowing Tesla to use standard airbags instead. While that may seem unheard of in the modern world, similar waivers are given to small-volume automakers like Lotus, Ferrari, and Bugatti. The interior is a relatively sparse, but still attractive, and frankly, a massive step-up from modern Tesla interiors. The tan leather seats match the door panel inserts, while the center console houses a "gear" shifter, controls for the HVAC system, and two buttons for the seat heaters. Above that is a JVC head unit complete with built-in navigation. The cluster is relatively standard, other than the fact that it still has an RPM gauge that goes up to 13,000 RPM. I think more EVs should have rev counters, despite their comparatively useless nature. While modern Teslas are a common sight on today's roads, only 2,450 Roadsters were built in four years, making this one that much more desirable. Tesla sold Roadsters directly to customers online, in 13 showrooms, and over the phone in North America and Europe. Tesla Roadsters aren't a common sight on the road or the second-hand market, so if you've been looking for one, this one on Exotic Car Trader is a must-have. Of course, with such credentials and only 1,821 miles on the odometer, the $225,000 asking price of this one is to be expected. Not only will you be driving one of the first mainstream electric sports cars, but you'll be driving one built on the back of an Elise. Is that something you can really put a price on? Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Need to trade in your coupe for a minivan or SUV as your family grows? You'll want something reliable and preferably approved by someone who knows a thing or two about cars. Learn More: For You: If you need a highly reliable family vehicle that won't break the bank, start with these models recommended by mechanics and auto repair experts. Toyota RAV4 New Models Start At: $30,645 (Kelley Blue Book) Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus rank second and third among the most reliable car manufacturers, according to the 2025 Consumer Reports study. For decades, Toyota's top priority has remained dependability. 'The RAV4 is highly reliable, especially in model years 2019-2023 which had simpler electronic systems,' explained Marc Skirvin, cofounder of Cash Auto Salvage. 'Parts are readily available, and servicing is cheap, with independent mechanics being able to work on these vehicles without expensive diagnostic tools.' I Bought a Hybrid Car: Honda CR-V New Models Start At: $31,495 One of the prime competitors of the RAV4 as a compact SUV is Honda's CR-V. Skirvin especially likes model years 2017-2022 for reliability. 'Our salvage operations yield a high reliability on Honda CR-V models, where less than 5% end up having engine or transmission issues,' he said. 'When CR-Vs show up in our yard, they're usually the result of collision or flood damage, not mechanical issues we find with other brands.' Honda Odyssey New Models Start At: $43,670 Looking for a minivan with three rows of seats? The Honda Odyssey remains a perennial favorite among mechanics. Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, raved about the Odyssey's spacious interior and reliability. 'The Variable Cylinder Management system in the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides high fuel efficiency without compromising on reliability standards,' he explained. 'The sliding door tracks of this vehicle and its belt-driven accessories have proven to be long-lasting and avoid sudden trips to the repair shop.' Toyota Sienna New Models Start At: $40,635 Landing on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars, the Sienna offers another great option for a three-seat minivan. It doesn't hurt that the starting price clocks in $3,000 lower than the Odyssey. 'The Sienna offers a hybrid model which provides excellent fuel efficiency alongside the typical Toyota durability standards,' added Gelfand. 'The e-CVT transmission features a sealed design that requires no maintenance because it does not leak.' The minimal height step entrance helps families hop in, and the foldable flat seats simplify hauling both sports equipment and bulky furniture. Hyundai Palisade New Models Start At: $38,695 Prefer a three-row SUV rather than a minivan? Try the Hyundai Palisade. It, too, scored a slot on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars. 'The Palisade has gained a reputation for reliability based on its dependable first-year performance and long warranty,' noted Andrew Franks, cofounder of accident management service Claimsline. 'It has a highly equipped interior with advanced technology and safety features.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 These Cars May Seem Expensive, but They Rarely Need Repairs This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
