2002 ToyotaRAV4 Base For Sale

from 2001-2005 there is a problem with the engine control module causing the transmission to miss shift. warranty is good to 80,000 miles, mine went out at 89,400 other than that I love the car. If buying used make sure the ECM has been changed so you don't damage your transmission.

I bought my Rav 4 brand new in 2001. Originally I was going for the Chrysler PT Cruiser, but after a dealer snafu I had to choose a different model completely. What attracted me to the PT Cruiser was the ability to tumble and take out the seats. This function on the Rav 4 made me a buyer. I have moved over 12 times (once across the country), and have moved nearly everything using my Rav 4 - Couches on the rooftop, chairs inside, boxes upon boxes. I love the Toyota Rav 4. This car has been reliable and has paid for itself twice over in the 11 years that I have had it. Now that the car is over 200,000 miles, I'm seeking a new one but hesitant to because this one is like my baby. Cons about the Rav 4: The high center of gravity means that you shouldn't take turns too fast. I have managed to lift two wheels off the pavement before. Ever since I got the vehicle I've had trouble with the check engine light. It just likes to be on - for NO REASON. It always says it's an oxygen sensor. But, I have changed the oxygen sensors, the oxygen manifold, etc. time and time again. Finally, I just gave up on it and it works just fine with that check engine light on. Be aware though - Having that check engine light on makes it difficult for registration in certain states.

....Bought my first one just to resale and liked it so much I kept it. As with most Toyotas it is practical, well thought out and good value with few surprises. The number one issue and problem with it was the second generation 2001 thru 2005 which had a faulty pcm/computer which would start causing problems around 120 to 160k plus Miles. These model years had a new pcm which came from another manufacturing source and had quality issues from poor soldering and some components. This is common with some newly redesigned parts before bugs are worked out and unfortunately this one didnt show up for years leaving many without warranted coverage, hence disgruntled customers about Toyotas lag time in correcting. The issue of computer would cause transmission to start shifting erratically and intermittanting, subsequently damaging the tranny only after continuance of driving over time. Early replacement of pcm solves problem before damaging tranny. Everyone needs to know this when it starts occurring and just replace with rebuilt pcm and save your transmission.