2008 Toyota RAV4 used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Excessive oil consumption90 owner complaints, usually around 87,000 miles, owners paid about $5,000

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Sudden unintended acceleration33 owner complaints, usually around 34,500 miles

  Check that the car accelerates smoothly, without hesitation or surges, and that cruise control works.

• Airbag warning light27 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SuspensionRecall number 16V596000, Aug 12, 2016
• SeatsRecall number 16V396000, Jun 2, 2016
• Seat beltsRecall number 16V096000, Feb 19, 2016
• VisibilityRecall number 15V689000, Oct 22, 2015
• SeatsRecall number 14V743000, Nov 19, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 14V168000, Apr 9, 2014
• SuspensionRecall number 13V383000, Aug 28, 2013
• VisibilityRecall number 12V491000, Oct 10, 2012
• SuspensionRecall number 12V373000, Aug 2, 2012
• Air bagsRecall number 11V245000, Apr 21, 2011
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 11V113000, Feb 24, 2011
• EquipmentRecall number 10V035000, Feb 3, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 10V036000, Feb 3, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 09V223000, Jun 15, 2009

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This Service Bulletin provides updated non-electric water pump leak inspection and diagnostic tips for...Jun 19, 2024
• This is to advise of various price adjustments that will affect Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and Long Life...Mar 4, 2024
• TT: HVAC drain tube is found to be blocked/clogged.Oct 21, 2020
• Obsolete noticeJun 23, 2020
• These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic ConvertersJun 3, 2020
• Revision noticeJul 1, 2019

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.