Used Toyota RAV4 – Tips for Buying Used Car

Tips for Buying Used Toyota Rav4

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact crossover SUVs on the market and for good reason. Toyota continues to offer the highest level of reliability with their RAV4 model, in addition to family-friendly interior space, impressive capability, and excellent fuel economy. A used RAV4 just might be the perfect option for you if you want a dynamic yet comfortable drive, and a roomy cabin that is comfortable for both people and their cargo. If you would like to learn more about what a Toyota RAV4 could offer you and your family, continue reading below!

Under the Hood

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Toyota has built a reputation upon engineering the most efficient and capable powertrains on the market, and the RAV4 is emblematic of this devotion. The model is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and it is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Customers can choose between front- or all-wheel drive, making it ideal for customers who might need more traction for inclement weather conditions, including rain and snow. Customers can expect to get up to 172 lb-ft of torque and 176 horsepower.

Every Toyota model will come equipped with a wide range of standard safety and security features. Because of the dedication to peace of mind and safety, the RAV4 performs very well in government-conducted crash tests. Aiding in the vehicle’s ability to keep you safe are features like a rearview camera, front head restraints, traction control, antilock brakes, and stability control.

The rearview camera will deliver increased visibility to the driver, and the standard rear privacy glass, which will keep your cargo safe from prying eyes. Most trims are available with blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert systems.

Design of Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4

Each model year of the RAV4 is well-equipped, and it can offer comfort for up to five passengers. Though trim availability will depend on your model, in the past Toyota has been known to offer three trim levels called the LE, XLE, and Limited. The LE is the base trim, and it features many standard amenities, with highlights including 17-inch steel wheels, cruise control, automatic headlights, and the convenience of full power accessories.

The interior space can be configured with the 60/40-split and reclining second-row seat. A great six-speaker sound system is standard, as is a 6-inch infotainment touchscreen. The XLE and Limited trims will offer other unique features to the well-equipped base model. For instance, the XLE has a sunroof, roof rails, and sporty front seats. The highest Limited trim has many luxury features, like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, premium synthetic leather upholstery, and heated front seats.

Safety Ratings and Reliability Rankings

RAV4 is a popular choice among car buyers looking for a reliable and safe SUV. When considering a used RAV4, it’s important to take into account its safety ratings and reliability rankings to ensure that you’re making a smart purchase.

In terms of safety, the Toyota RAV4 has consistently received high marks from independent safety organizations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2021 RAV4 an overall safety rating of five out of five stars, with four stars for front crash safety and five stars for side crash safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also named the 2021 RAV4 a Top Safety Pick, with the highest rating of Good in all crashworthiness tests.

When it comes to reliability, the RAV4 has a strong reputation for longevity and low maintenance costs. According to Consumer Reports, the RAV4 has an above-average reliability rating, with few reported issues in areas such as transmission, engine, and suspension. In J.D. Power’s 2021 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, the RAV4 ranked second in its segment for dependability, with a score of 144 problems per 100 vehicles.

It’s important to note that these safety ratings and reliability rankings are based on new RAV4 models, and may not necessarily apply to used cars. However, a used RAV4 that has been well-maintained and has a good service history is likely to be a reliable and safe choice.

When shopping for a used Toyota RAV4, be sure to inspect the car thoroughly and check its maintenance records to ensure that it has been well taken care of. Consider purchasing a certified pre-owned RAV4 from a Toyota dealership, which has undergone a rigorous inspection and comes with a warranty for added peace of mind.

The perks of buying a certified pre-owned RAV4

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If you’re considering buying a used Toyota RAV4, you may want to look into purchasing a certified pre-owned (CPO) RAV4. Here are some of the perks of buying a certified pre-owned RAV4:

Thorough Inspection

To qualify for certification, a pre-owned RAV4 must undergo a rigorous inspection process to ensure that it meets Toyota’s high standards for quality and safety. The inspection covers everything from the engine and transmission to the brakes and suspension, and any necessary repairs or maintenance is performed before the car can be sold as certified pre-owned.

Warranty

A certified pre-owned RAV4 comes with a comprehensive warranty that covers major systems and components. This can provide added peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected in case something goes wrong with your car.

Roadside Assistance

In addition to the warranty, a certified pre-owned RAV4 also comes with 24-hour roadside assistance for the duration of the warranty. This includes services like jump-starts, towing, and lockout assistance.

Vehicle History Report

When you purchase a certified pre-owned RAV4, you’ll receive a vehicle history report that details the car’s ownership history, accident history, and maintenance records. This can help you make an informed decision about whether the car is a good fit for you.

Competitive Financing

Toyota offers competitive financing rates and terms for certified pre-owned vehicles, making it easier to finance your purchase and get behind the wheel of your dream car.

Overall, buying a certified pre-owned RAV4 can be a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality used car. With a thorough inspection, comprehensive warranty, and other perks, a certified pre-owned RAV4 can provide added peace of mind and a great value for your money.

Ready to start shopping for a certified pre-owned Toyota RAV4? Check out your local Toyota dealership or browse online listings to find the perfect car for you. With the added benefits of certification, you can feel confident that you’re making a smart investment in your future.

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FAQs

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1. What is a good year for a used RAV4?

According to RepairPal.com, the best years for a used Toyota RAV4 are 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2010. These models are known for their high reliability scores and owner satisfaction. Additionally, 2016 is a good model year for the RAV4, as it offers great features at an excellent value. The 2017 and 2018 models are also great, but may be slightly more expensive.

2. How many miles is too many for a used RAV4?

Generally speaking, most experts agree that a used Toyota RAV4 should be able to last for up to 200,000 to 250,000 miles if it has been properly cared for. Once you get past this mileage, you may start to see some issues with the car. It is important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing to ensure that it is in good condition and not in need of major repairs.

3. Is it high maintenance?

Generally, the Toyota RAV4 is not considered to be a high-maintenance vehicle. According to Lexus, their vehicles have similar maintenance costs to that of the RAV4. Additionally, Consumer Reports found that Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) like the RAV4 Prime had lower maintenance and repair costs than their gasoline counterparts.

Conclusions

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The Toyota RAV4 has built a reputation on offering an unmatched performance, in addition to comfort and safety for the whole family. At Thompson Toyota, we have a great range of used and certified pre-owned Toyota RAV4 models that are just waiting to be driven. If you are interested in finding out more, and possibly scheduling a test drive, give us a call or fill out the form below to contact us at Thompson Toyota!

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