When the engine light comes on in a RAV4, most people jump straight to worst case scenarios. I do not. I treat it as a message from the engine computer. The light tells me there is a stored fault. My job is to figure out how serious it is and what to do next. On … Read more
If I am shopping a 2011 RAV4, I start with 2 fast checks. First, I run the VIN for open recalls. On this model year, several safety items are VIN-specific and fixable at a dealer for $0. Second, if it is AWD, I do a 35 to 55 mph road test to listen for a … Read more
If I’m shopping a 2012 RAV4, I’m doing two checks before I even get excited. First, I run the VIN for open recalls. This model year has a few recall items that matter for real-world safety, like ABS and stability control warnings, wiper linkage failure, and rear seat belt protection. Second, if it’s AWD, I … Read more
If you are shopping a 2004 RAV4, I look at it as a two-step decision. Step 1 is safety. I check the VIN for the Takata driver airbag inflator recall before I do anything else. Some 2004 to 2005 RAV4s were included in a Do Not Drive advisory. That changes everything. Step 2 is mechanical … Read more
If I am shopping a 2010 RAV4, I do 2 things first. First, I run the VIN for open recalls. I do that before I drive it. Some recall items are safety-critical. I do not gamble there. Second, I listen for AWD rear driveline noise on a test drive if it is a 4WD model. … Read more