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2007 Toyota RAV4

2007 Toyota RAV4

Overview

The 2007 Toyota RAV4 is generally considered a reliable compact SUV, known for its practicality and decent fuel economy. It offers a comfortable ride and a versatile interior suitable for families and everyday use. While most owners report a positive experience, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from mechanics and owners over time. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair areas for the 2007 model year across its various configurations.


Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder (2AZ-FE)

Oil Consumption

  • Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Piston ring replacement or PCV valve cleaning/replacement.
  • Cost: $800 - $1500

Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i) Actuator

  • Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVT-i actuator.
  • Cost: $400 - $700

3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)

No widespread issues reported.

  • Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: Varies

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4WD/2WD)

No widespread issues reported.

  • Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: Varies

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

No widespread issues reported.

  • Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Strut Mount Bearings

  • Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of front strut mount bearings.
  • Cost: $300 - $500

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

Power Window Actuators

  • Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, slow operation, or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty power window motor/regulator.
  • Cost: $200 - $400 per window

Keyless Entry Fob Battery

  • Symptoms: Remote key fob not working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the key fob battery.
  • Cost: $5 - $15

Exterior

Standard Exterior

No widespread issues reported.

  • Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: Varies

Interior

Standard Interior

No widespread issues reported.

  • Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Cost: Varies

Summary Verdict

The 2007 Toyota RAV4 is a solid choice for a used compact SUV, with a generally strong reliability record. The most commonly cited issues revolve around the 2.4L engine’s tendency for oil consumption and potential VVT-i actuator problems, along with occasional strut mount bearing wear. However, these are often manageable with timely maintenance and repair. The V6 engine and transmissions have proven quite robust. Electrical components like power window regulators can be a minor annoyance. Overall, with proper care and attention to these specific potential issues, the 2007 RAV4 remains a dependable vehicle.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.