Hey all, I am in the market again for a Rav4. Was looking a bit last year, but they were out of my reach. I decided start checking them out again. The older models (06-08) are obviously much more budget friendly. What big changes were there after '08?
I know the couple common issues with the oil lines and water pump going out and I am not concerned about them. The transmission wine as well. Mechanically are they just as reliable (recalls aside)? 08s with 130K miles are listed around $9,000ish (Chicago). I was looking at spending 4K for a beater, but if I can get something decent in the 9K range, I rather do that.
I have a '10 Tundra and '15 Golf R. Neither are which are practical "around town" cars. The truck is great for hauling and towing my camper. The Golf is great for commuting, but I hate taking it anywhere because people are so careless around here. I've been on a hunt for a cheap beater but just not seeing anything that sparks my interest in that price range. I figured I would revisit Rav4s and keep an eye out for a deal.
Higher mileage Toyotas don't worry me much (had a 220K '94 v6 camry, 118K '01 4 runner). However, I see a lot of people on this forum swaying people to purchase '09s+. Currently that is out my budget. I really liked my 4runner, and have contemplated getting another one, but I am looking at '02 or older for that body style, and people still want a ton for them. Plus, they are dogs. Really my only complaint about the vehicle. I am a bit of a lead foot and the V6 awd I drove last year sealed the deal for me.
I appreciate any input. There is an 07 limited, 1 owner, good service history, 135K miles listed just under $10K. Tempted to take a look and see what they are willing to do.
I know the couple common issues with the oil lines and water pump going out and I am not concerned about them. The transmission wine as well. Mechanically are they just as reliable (recalls aside)? 08s with 130K miles are listed around $9,000ish (Chicago). I was looking at spending 4K for a beater, but if I can get something decent in the 9K range, I rather do that.
I have a '10 Tundra and '15 Golf R. Neither are which are practical "around town" cars. The truck is great for hauling and towing my camper. The Golf is great for commuting, but I hate taking it anywhere because people are so careless around here. I've been on a hunt for a cheap beater but just not seeing anything that sparks my interest in that price range. I figured I would revisit Rav4s and keep an eye out for a deal.
Higher mileage Toyotas don't worry me much (had a 220K '94 v6 camry, 118K '01 4 runner). However, I see a lot of people on this forum swaying people to purchase '09s+. Currently that is out my budget. I really liked my 4runner, and have contemplated getting another one, but I am looking at '02 or older for that body style, and people still want a ton for them. Plus, they are dogs. Really my only complaint about the vehicle. I am a bit of a lead foot and the V6 awd I drove last year sealed the deal for me.
I appreciate any input. There is an 07 limited, 1 owner, good service history, 135K miles listed just under $10K. Tempted to take a look and see what they are willing to do.
