Video Summary
The Toyota RAV4, while a popular compact crossover SUV, faces several potential issues.-The RAV4 is practical and a pleasure to use daily.
-The transmission is relatively unreliable after 150,000 miles, with symptoms like rough shifting, delayed engagement, and grinding noises. This often stems from poor maintenance of the transmission fluid and filter. Replacing or rebuilding the transmission can be costly, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000.
-The 2.5-liter engine consumes a lot of oil, with some owners reporting using a quart every few hundred miles. Poorly sealed piston rings often cause the problem, a "short block" is the solution and costs several thousands of dollars. Also, the water pump is prone to leaks after about 25,000 miles, potentially leading to overheating.
-The Electrical system does not have great electrical components which often causes fluctuating dash lights and can cause wipers, door locks and audio systems not to work. These issues might come from poorly assembled wiring harnesses, with soy-based insulation making the model a rodent magnet. The soy-based insulation often leads to expensive repairs because of the damage rodents cause to the electrical system and the resulting short circuit.
-Noise and seal leaks occur often.
-Toyota uses cheap materials, it's not the best when it comes to interior and exterior design and interior materials. As such, buyers complain about the seat quality wearing out too quick. In the end, the interior falls apart.
-The infotainment system sometimes freezes, and you loose music or you loose your call. Toyota can't achieve the perfectionism with its system, that European auto makers can and what you also see at the sister brand Lexus.
-Fuel pump failures can cause the car to lose power unexpectedly, which can be dangerous.
