Toyota RAV4 1
Valuation of the Toyota RAV4 1 (1994–2000): condition, paperwork, inspection and terms of sale.
Indicative purchase price
Below market value
Final price agreed after inspection.
Value my car1Why buyers choose this model
Toyota has been producing legendary Land Cruiser SUVs since the 50s. But the idea to create a small universal all-wheel drive car, which could be driven on easy off-road, appeared only in the 90s. And so, in the mid-90s, the premiere of one of the first compact SUVs – Toyota RAV4. A year after its debut on the market in the 3-door body - in 1995, a 5-door version appeared. In 1997, the SUV was introduced even in the environmental version of the EV with an electric motor. A year later, the crossover underwent a minor cosmetic upgrade. Changes affected bumpers, side protective linings and optics. Everything went even more modestly in the salon. However, before restyling, many cars lacked ABS and air conditioning. But after the equipment became richer. Now even appeared airbag front passenger, which replaced the cup holder and shelf. Safety first. The first generation was discontinued in 2000, giving way to the Toyota RAV4 next - second generation.
2What buyers check
Engines
In Europe, the first RAV4 was offered with only one engine - a 2-liter atmospheric petrol four with a capacity of 129 hp. The power unit, although not admired by its power, but accelerates the crossover quite cheerfully. Despite the weight from 1210 to 1260 kg (depending on the modifications), the engine consumes in a combined cycle about 13 l / 100 km. All-wheel drive is "taking its own."
The electric version of the EV, according to the manufacturer's assurances, is able to travel on a single charge of 400 km. Fantastic numbers, probably greatly exaggerated. According to the technical description, the EV is capable of a top speed of 126 km / h, and the first hundred to reach in 18 seconds.
Japanese power units from the 90s until recently were famous for their unprecedented reliability. But unfortunately, the RAV4 engine is getting older and losing its white form every year. One of the common drawbacks is oil leaks - all sorts of seals and gaskets are not eternal. This also applies to the transmission.
The 129-horsepower 3S-FE engine is well known for the first-generation Avensis. The motor has two camshafts driven by the belt of the timing. The design of the engine excludes collision of pistons and valves when the tooth belt breaks.
Transmission
Most Toyota RAV4 I have permanent all-wheel drive, but there are also conventional front-wheel drive FWDs.
The distribution of thrust along the axes of all-wheel drive modifications is carried out by the central differential. It provides reliable adhesion of wheels to the surface in almost any conditions. Unfortunately, many owners are unaware that the oil in the bridges and transmissions needs to be changed every 30,000 km.
The engine traction is transmitted through a 5-speed mechanics or a 4-speed automatic. The oil in the automatic transmission must be changed every 60,000 km.
Walking
The car is based on a body-bearing, and the suspension is completely independent. The brakes are quite effective, despite the "drums" from behind.
Common faults
Toyota RAV 4 has always held leading positions in reliability ratings. Unfortunately, this does not mean that the operation of the car will be trouble-free. The first copies are over 20 years old.
One of the main drawbacks is the support of the rear differential, which reminds itself of unpleasant knocks. Many mechanics do not pay attention to this.
The brake system pump often fails. Relatively quickly wear the front brake discs and pads.
With age, rust appears on the body, especially on the bottom. In the past, iron was not prone to corrosion.
Check Engine can catch fire after refueling with low-quality fuel. It is enough to just pour good gasoline and drop the negative terminal from the battery for a couple of seconds.
When buying, you should pay attention to the condition of the pump and radiator. Most of the problems are created by hinged aggregates. And electrified equipment fails due to oxidized contacts in the joints.
In the process of production, RAV4 received a batch of defective synchronizers of the fifth transmission of the manual transmission. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully check the operation of the mechanics during the test drive.
With large runs, you can not avoid replacing the bushings of the front and rear levers. The thin lower rear levers are easy to bend, making their way through rocky trails.
It is very important to control the level of coolant. Water pump, radiator and pipes in the age often require replacement.
3Pre-purchase checklist
Transmission
- Unfortunately, many owners are unaware that the oil in the bridges and transmissions needs to be changed every 30,000 km.
- The oil in the automatic transmission must be changed every 60,000 km.
Common faults
- Unfortunately, this does not mean that the operation of the car will be trouble-free.
- One of the main drawbacks is the support of the rear differential, which reminds itself of unpleasant knocks.
- The brake system pump often fails.
- With age, rust appears on the body, especially on the bottom.
- In the past, iron was not prone to corrosion.
- When buying, you should pay attention to the condition of the pump and radiator.
- Most of the problems are created by hinged aggregates.
- Therefore, it is advisable to carefully check the operation of the mechanics during the test drive.
- It is very important to control the level of coolant.
4Challenges of selling privately
The Toyota RAV4 is a car that needs no introduction. Many drivers believe that this is a normal SUV, but only a small one. But that is far from the case. In addition, despite the good all-wheel drive system, the ability of the crossover on the ground is quite mediocre. The first generation of the model is unique in durability of mechanical components, comfortable suspension and maneuverability. The disadvantages include a modest and cramped cabin and a large fuel consumption. Despite its age, RAV4 is still highly valued. The well-groomed specimens cost more than $7,000.
- Engines: In Europe, the first RAV4 was offered with only one engine - a 2-liter atmospheric petrol four with a capacity of 129 hp.
- Powertrain: Most Toyota RAV4 I have permanent all-wheel drive, but there are also conventional front-wheel drive FWDs.
- Driving: At the heart of the car, the body is carrying, and the suspension is completely independent.
- Faults: Unfortunately, this does not mean that the operation of the car will be trouble-free.
Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.
5How selling to us works
Leave a request with the car data. We will discuss the preliminary assessment and inspection. After checking the status and documents, we agree on the final price and terms of the transaction.

