Newbie

[curlycogs]

Hi Guys and Girls :) just looking for a bit of advice. I'm looking at buying a RAV4, I've got about £2500. Most of the cars I've seen in my price range are the 2004-2005 model and have around 130,000 on the clock. Is there a common fault at around 130k? Any advice on common faults to look for would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

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[FROSTYBALLS]

Hello - welcome to Toyota Owners Club.

Have a look at this earlier topic: http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/topic/163605-questions-from-a-newbie/

[curlycogs]

Thank you. I can't see much on there about faults at around that mileage though :/

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[john21245]

Hi, you don't say if you're looking for a petrol or diesel. Petrol version is pretty bombproof, but at that mileage it should have had a clutch or will soon need one. Diesels- plenty on here about diesel problems.

[curlycogs]

Thanks, that's very helpful :) I'm looking for a petrol. Was going for a diesel until my Dad posted me a link to this forum lol. So the clutch is the only thing I really need to worry about, that seems pretty good!

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[john21245]

I should add however that with any vehicle that has covered 130,000 miles or thereabouts all normal wear and tear items such as brakes, tyres, and exhaust systems should be checked. Hope you find a good one.

[curlycogs]

Thank you John. I'm trying to find a lower mileage one but with my limited funds it doesn't seem very likely.

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[Parts-King]

The early petrol models are a bit thirsty too, especially if automatic, which can also have a problem with the auto gearbox ECU which costs a bit to have fixed

[curlycogs]

Thanks Parts-king. Early like 2004-2005 models?

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[Uncle Buck]

Those years are considered 'later' for the petrol versions. Personally I'd recommend a manual for better MPG potential and fewer likely issues. If the clutch has been renewed and the brakes & suspension units are fine, then it should be good for a few more miles. Check the previous MOT slip for advisories .......

[curlycogs]

Ok, thank you Uncle Buck :) I've found one with 89000 miles so that should have some life left in it. It's at a dealers though and someone else has arranged to view it before me. Fingers crossed I can get that one.

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