The RAV4 is an extremely popular compact SUV due to its high fuel efficiency, its easy maneuverability, and its family-friendly layout.
If you are considering buying a new or used RAV4, you might be wondering how long you can expect it to keep going.
RAV4s can easily last 200,000 to 250,000 miles, and some of them can even get to twice that mileage. The main factor that determines how long a RAV4 lasts is how well-maintained it is.
Continue reading to find out how long RAV4s last compared to similar cars, and how you can make a RAV4 last longer.
How Many Miles Can a RAV4 Last?
Most owners find that their Toyota RAV4 lasts between 200,000 and 250,000 miles if it has been well maintained.
In rare cases, RAV4s have even been known to last for more than 400,000 miles.
From my experience, the owner is far more important than the vehicle when determining how many miles a car will last. If you’re looking at buying a high-mileage RAV4, then how it was treated by previous owners has a bigger effect than the car itself. If you’re buying private, then speak to the owner and ask what it was used for (IE a work car or a highway commute) If you want a RAV4 that lasts more than 300k miles, then ideally you want to be buying it from someone who drove it carefully and maintained it well.
Related Article: Why Are Toyota RAV4s So Expensive? (4 Reasons)
How Many Years Does a RAV4 Last?
The average American drives around 15,000 miles per year, which means that the average RAV4 should last for up to 17 years. If you drive less often, you can expect to keep your car for over 20 years.
There are still some original RAV4s on the roads today even though this model was first launched in 1994, it all comes down to meticulous maintenance, avoiding unreliable years, and a little bit of luck.
What Is Considered High Mileage For A Toyota RAV4?
The term “high mileage” is usually used for cars that have covered at least 100,000 miles. After the 100,000-mile mark, most vehicles will tend to need more maintenance than before.
However, RAV4s are renowned for their reliability and longevity, so I’d consider a RAV4 with around 150k miles on it “high mileage”.
Do RAV4s Last Longer Than Other Cars?
RAV4s are famous for lasting a long time. However, how long a RAV4 lasts compared to other cars all comes down to maintenance. A poorly maintained RAV4 with 100k miles on the clock probably isn’t going to outlast a well-maintained Subaru Outback with 150k miles on the clock.
RAV4 vs Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is another ultra-reliable Toyota and is actually regarded as even more reliable than the RAV4. The Highlander can easily reach 300,000 miles if it is taken care of properly., which means you can expect it to outlast the RAV4 if well-maintained.
RAV4 vs Forester
Some of the first Subaru Forester models were known to last for over 300,000 miles, so they could be more long-lasting than the Toyota RAV4. However, it all depends on the type of driving you do, the year you buy, and how well you take care of your car.
RAV4 vs 4Runner
Although the Toyota 4Runner is built to last more than 200,000 miles, many models break down at that mark. Therefore, it might be slightly less long-lasting than the RAV4, which could last 250,000 miles with good maintenance. Despite this, both cars are durable.
RAV4 vs Outback
Some drivers have reported that their Subaru Outback is still on the road after 250,000 to 300,000 miles. This makes it slightly more long-lasting than the average RAV4. That said, both cars can last for over 20 years if you’re careful and you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
RAV4 vs Camry
Most Toyota Camrys are no longer functional after 200,000 to 300,000 miles. This is in line with the RAV4. Both cars are extremely durable when serviced on a regular basis.
How Long Do RAV4 Parts Last?
Let’s have a look at how long various RAV4 parts last.
Brakes
Toyota’s brake pads usually last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, but you should have the brake fluid changed every 20,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. Your RAV4 brake rotors might need to be replaced every 30,000 to 80,000 miles.
Tires
RAV4 tires should last for around six years, but this depends on various factors including your driving style, your driving frequency, the weather conditions, and the condition of the roads. When the tread gets very shallow, you should get your tires replaced because you could be at risk of an accident.
Engines
It’s unlikely that you have to get your Toyota RAV4’s engine replaced because it can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles. In rare cases, RAV engines have even lasted up to 400,000 miles.
Shocks
If you use your RAV4 gently and have it maintained frequently, you can expect your shocks to last for around 10 years. However, people who use their car heavily or drive abruptly might need to get them replaced every five years.
Transmission
Toyota’s automatic transmissions are considered quite durable, so yours might last you for 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Most RAV4s will only need a new transmission once, and some don’t need transmission replacement at all.
Struts
RAV4 struts have a similar lifespan to RAV4 shocks, and you can expect them to work well for five to ten years. The lifespan depends on the frequency of use and the level of maintenance. People who drive very abruptly or on uneven terrain might need to get their struts replaced more frequently than those who drive gently.
Prime Batteries
Most RAV4 cars will need a new battery after three to four years. Some factors that speed up the decline of your battery are extreme heat, an abrupt driving style, and taking many short trips.
Hybrid Batteries
Most electric car battery packs should last for 80,000 to 100,000 miles. You might need to get them replaced once or twice. However, Toyota claims that its batteries are even more durable than average.
In fact, hybrid Toyota cars come with a 10-year or 150,000-mile battery warranty, so it’s unlikely that you’ll have to pay for a battery replacement in the first decade.
Related Article: Toyota RAV4 Gas Mileage (Ultimate Guide)
How To Make A RAV4 Last Longer
There are many things you can do to make your RAV4 last longer.
- Have it inspected and serviced by a professional mechanic at least once a year
- Don’t delay repairs, especially if they are related to the engine.
- Change the fluids regularly.
- Drive smoothly and avoid bumpy terrain whenever possible.
- Avoid too many small journeys because cold starts are hard on the engine.
- Keep your tires inflated and in good condition.
- Whenever possible, store your RAV4 in a garage instead of out in the open.
Can A RAV4 Last 400,000 Miles?
Older RAV4s can last longer than 400,000 miles. In fact, there have even been cars that have gone over the 500,000-mark. However, this is rare and only happens when the car is maintained exceptionally well.