2002 Toyota RAV4

The 2002 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It came with a single engine option: a 2.0L inline-4 cylinder engine producing around 148 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the RAV4’s nimble handling, spacious interior for its size, and Toyota’s reputation for dependability. Common dislikes include its somewhat basic interior and the lack of more powerful engine options.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 (1AZ-FE)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil, requiring frequent top-offs. Can lead to spark plug fouling, catalytic converter damage, and eventual engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of piston rings or complete engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle/Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine idles roughly, may stall at idle, especially when cold. Can be accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), throttle body, or Idle Air Control (IAC) valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (A245E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hard shifts between gears, especially 2nd to 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid, replacing faulty solenoids or valve body repair. If the issue persists, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or clunking noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, either intermittently or completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light illuminates due to a variety of sensor or system faults.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the code with a scanner and replacing the faulty sensor or component. Common culprits include O2 sensors, catalytic converter, and gas cap.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair by cutting out the affected areas and welding in new metal, followed by body filler and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ per affected area depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, particularly in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Dash replacement, dashboard cover, or repair using specialized vinyl/plastic repair techniques.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2002 Toyota RAV4 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any older car, it is prone to certain issues. The most concerning problems tend to revolve around excessive oil consumption in the engine and potential harsh shifting in the automatic transmission, both of which can lead to costly repairs. Suspension wear and electrical faults are also common. Rust can be a significant issue, especially in regions with harsh winters. Overall, while these issues may require attention, they are often manageable with proactive maintenance and timely repairs. The cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the severity of the problem and the chosen repair method.