4 Wheel Drive Testing

[Lisa17]

Hi All, how can you test the 4 wheel drive is working on a Rav4? I'm looking to buy one and as i've not yet bought it cant really take it off road to check. Is there anything when driving like a different tone from the gearbox when it kicks in or a light on the dashboard/instrument cluster or bleeper that would let me know. Its a Yreg 2001 3dr 2lt(VVTi)NRG. I've been told they are permanent 4 wheel drive?. Any help would be most appreciated as i'm new to all this. Thanks.

[anchorman]

Welcome tot the club Lisa.

There isn't really anything to check. Some of the early models had a 1.8 engine and they were front wheel drive only but a 2.0 litre is all wheel drive and as your information is correct (permanent all wheel drive), it will definitely be working. There isn't a clutch unit of some kind - it is built with a locked up mechanical drive system so therefor no lights to tell you it is working.

You will have tremendous fun in the snow.

[rambler]

Hi Lisa

Also.....if the seller permits....

Ask for you to take it to some gravel or a muddy ( or snowy) field entrance....or loose ground

Put it in 1st gear and floor it briefly.......& watch ALL the wheels spin happily......4 wheel drive

Just be carefull you dont drive into anything (a tree etc) & make sure the loose ground you churn up ( which you will ) doesnt hit anybody.

Its great fun especially in the snow

And watch all those in ford Kuga's and other non 4wd (4x4's ) struggle in the snow this winter.

Personally.....i cant see the point in a 4x4 being anything other than 4 WHEEL DRIVE designed for a purpose,to take you where a normal vehicle won't go.

Its great.

[Lisa17]

Thanks for your help and welcome. I've added another couple of questions in a post if you could help. Thanks again.