Toyota's RAV4 is a sporty compact utility vehicle that can fit up to seven passengers. The RAV4 comes in front- and all-wheel drive; Base, Sport and Limited trim levels are available. Competitors in this segment include the Honda CR-V, Saturn Vue and Ford Escape.The RAV4 gets some significan... Read Full Report
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Notable Features
Growing up, I was told that if I didn't have anything nice to say, I shouldn't say anything at all. Luckily, I've never abided by that rule because if I did, this would've been a blank review. The 2009 Toyota RAV4 is nothing to rave about.It's not all bad, but I'm having a hard time understanding why I see so many RAV4s cruising around town. People seem to really l... Read full review for the 2009 Toyota RAV 4
Sold my lovely Honda Odyssey because I felt frumpy, it was big and I am concerned about gas mileage. Narrowed my shopping to Honda CRV, Rav4, Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox. Minute I got in the Rav... Read Full Review
Recalls
There are currently 16 recalls for this car.
Safety defects and recalls are relatively common. Stay informed and know what to do ahead of time.
Service & Repair
Bumper-to-Bumper
36mo/36,000mi
Powertrain
60mo/60,000mi
Roadside Assistance Coverage
36mo/36,000mi
What you should get in your warranty can be confusing. Make sure you are informed.
Bumper-to-Bumper
Often called a basic warranty or new-vehicle warranty, a bumper-to-bumper policy covers components like air conditioning, audio systems, vehicle sensors, fuel systems and major electrical components. Most policies exclude regular maintenance like fluid top offs and oil changes, but a few brands have separate free-maintenance provisions, and those that do offer them is slowly rising. Bumper-to-bumper warranties typically expire faster than powertrain warranties.
Powertrain
Don't be misled a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty doesn't promise a decade of free repairs for your car. It typically covers just the engine and transmission, along with any other moving parts that lead to the wheels, like the driveshaft and constant velocity joints. Some automakers also bundle seat belts and airbags into their powertrain warranties. With a few exceptions, powertrain warranties don't cover regular maintenance like engine tuneups and tire rotations.
Roadside Assistance
Some automakers include roadside assistance with their bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranties, while others have separate policies. These programs cover anything from flat-tire changes and locksmith services to jump-starts and towing. Few reimburse incidental costs like motel rooms (if you have to wait for repairs).
Free Scheduled Maintenance
Some automakers include free scheduled maintenance for items such as oil changes, air filters and tire rotations. Some include consumables including brake pads and windshield wipers; others do not. They are typically for the first couple of years of ownership of a new car.
