How's the 2018 Rav4 treating you? Considering buying one with 24,000 miles this weekend

Toyota Truck, SUV and Vans Forum Toyota RAV4
1

Looking to upgrade from a Toyota Corolla to a 2018 Rav4 LE. Curious to hear your experiences with this model. Any advice or insights?

2

I own a 2018 RAV4 XLE, purchased new for $25K. It currently has 85K miles, and so far, I’ve only needed oil changes (every 5K miles), a new set of tires, and front brakes. Zero issues otherwise. My kids are using it now, and I expect it will easily surpass 200K miles if properly maintained.

3

@Fifer
In this market, your car might be worth the same or more than when you bought it. You could trade it for a newer model.

4

Marcell said:
@Fifer
In this market, your car might be worth the same or more than when you bought it. You could trade it for a newer model.

I’d love a new car, but I don’t like how dealerships are handling pricing these days.

5

@Fifer
Why do you change the oil every 5K miles? The manufacturer recommends every 10K.

6

Amar said:
@Fifer
Why do you change the oil every 5K miles? The manufacturer recommends every 10K.

I follow advice from a Toyota-certified technician who suggests 5K oil changes for longevity. While 10K might be fine for the warranty period, shorter intervals can extend the engine’s life.

7

Amar said:
@Fifer
Why do you change the oil every 5K miles? The manufacturer recommends every 10K.

The 10K recommendation only applies to the expected ‘lifetime’ of a vehicle, which is usually around 125K miles. For 300K miles or more, aim for oil changes every 5K miles.

8

We traded our 2018 for a 2019 due to better gas mileage, but we loved the 2018. It was reliable, and we traded it with 90K miles. Initially upgraded from a Corolla as well, mostly for space.

9

I bought a 2018 LE last week with 44K miles, and I love it so far. My only complaints are the headlights and the head unit, which I plan to upgrade.

10

Tory said:
I bought a 2018 LE last week with 44K miles, and I love it so far. My only complaints are the headlights and the head unit, which I plan to upgrade.

Are you upgrading them yourself?

11

@Amar
Yes, I’ve already researched Apple CarPlay units from Crutchfield. They provide a complete kit, and installation is straightforward. It’ll cost around $300-500. The headlight upgrade is also simple and costs under $50.

12

I had a 2015 Rav4 and loved it. Bought it with 25K miles and traded it in at 175K miles with zero issues. Just regular maintenance. If you’re driving a lot, consider the newer models for better features.

13

@Zayden
Thank you! This is helpful.

14

I’ve had my 2018 Rav4 since new. Currently at 33K miles with no issues. It’s been a great car, and I plan to keep it for a long time.

15

Indra said:
I’ve had my 2018 Rav4 since new. Currently at 33K miles with no issues. It’s been a great car, and I plan to keep it for a long time.

Thank you for sharing!

16

I bought a 2018 Limited with 55K miles and love it. I upgraded the head unit to a JVC model, which made the experience even better. It’s a fantastic car.

17

Jane said:
I bought a 2018 Limited with 55K miles and love it. I upgraded the head unit to a JVC model, which made the experience even better. It’s a fantastic car.

Are you planning any other upgrades?

18

@Amar
Yes, I’m adding raptor lights and upgrading the interior bulbs to LEDs. Also considering powder-coating the rims black to match the exterior.

19

I’ve had my 2018 LE for four years and 49K miles. Other than oil changes, it’s been flawless.

20

Bought a 2018 XLE in 2019 with 23K miles. Now at 51K miles with no problems. I upgraded from a 2015 Corolla S and have no regrets.