Thinking about getting one and wanted to know which years are considered the best. I know Toyotas are reliable, but are there any specific years to look out for?
Avoid the first two years of a new model. If you’re curious about details, check out channels like The Car Angel or Car Care Nut on YouTube for their Toyota videos.
Noel said:
Avoid the first two years of a new model. If you’re curious about details, check out channels like The Car Angel or Car Care Nut on YouTube for their Toyota videos.
The Car Care Nut is great. He’s a Toyota master mechanic and shares lots of helpful tips. I watched his Rav4 video, and he highlighted an issue with my 2017 that I hadn’t noticed before. Very useful stuff.
@Valentine
As a fellow 2017 Rav4 owner, what issue did he talk about that you didn’t know?
@Valentine
What does he say about the 2021 models?
@Valentine
Thanks, I’ll take a look.
Noel said:
Avoid the first two years of a new model. If you’re curious about details, check out channels like The Car Angel or Car Care Nut on YouTube for their Toyota videos.
That channel is super helpful. I watch it all the time for car tips.
2011-2012 V6 models from the third generation are fantastic. I’ve got a 2011 and love it.
Mecarmind1 said:
2011-2012 V6 models from the third generation are fantastic. I’ve got a 2011 and love it.
I have a 2009 V6 Sport model, and it’s been amazing for me.
Mecarmind1 said:
2011-2012 V6 models from the third generation are fantastic. I’ve got a 2011 and love it.
I have a 2009 V6 Sport model, and it’s been amazing for me.
I drive a 2008 V6. It’s solid, but some bugs were fixed in later years, like the oil line issue. Watch out for the 2.4 engines that burn oil. The 2.5 engines solved that problem.
If you maintain the first or second generation models well, they can last forever. I’ve had my 1999 for almost a decade, and it’s at 288k miles.
Look for 2010-2012 V6 AWD models.
The best year is the one you end up with.
I’ve got a 2016 AWD LE with over 130,000 miles. No major issues so far.
Elijah4 said:
I’ve got a 2016 AWD LE with over 130,000 miles. No major issues so far.
How is it holding up overall?
The 2018 model is great because it was the last year of its generation, meaning most earlier issues were resolved.
My partner has been a mechanic for years and recommends 2016-2018 models. These years are reliable compared to the newer ones, which may have quality control issues.
Dane said:
My partner has been a mechanic for years and recommends 2016-2018 models. These years are reliable compared to the newer ones, which may have quality control issues.
What does your partner think about 2009-2012 models? We’re considering something in that range.
@Frances
If it’s in good shape and has been maintained, it could be a great option. Just get a mechanic to check it before buying.
I’m partial to 2013-2015 models because they have a center locking differential, which I find really useful.