Rav4 Automatic - Towing

[dav806]

Hello All

I've just joined this excellent forum after reading through, I wish to purchase a 1996 or 1997 RAV4 5 Door Automatic and I am going to use it to tow a 1217kg MTPLM caravan. Before I purchase one can anyone tell me if I will need additional cooling for the cooling system or autobox and are they good for towing this sort of thing, ortherwise I may purchase a manual

Thanks

David

[sjrainsford]

Hi there!

In my manual it states 1500 kg max braked towing capacity, so it should be fine with that. It doesn't differ from manual to auto, and there are no warnings so I would presume it should tow fine.

When you begin your search, try to aim for a 1998 on model if you are going for a mk1 becuase they received a mild face lift in 98 which I think really improved the look of the car. And naturally it may sound daft, but try and aim for the highest model spec you can such as a VX because they get all the kit and wheel arch extensions etc.

All the best with the hunt!

[dav806]

Thanks for that Stuart

My budget wont quite stretch to the 1998 model unfortunately!

I was wondering if anyone had experience of having fit an additional cooler for the autobox and if no one has then does it need one? The problem being is I cannot get hold of Toyota for this information, its always busy and our local automatic specialist says that he would fit one just to be safe! but at £150 I am obviously lining his pockets.

Please advise

Thanks

David

[sjrainsford]

Well, with the most different cars i've had, it has stated in the manual if the auto box will need extra cooling for towing. And there's no mention of it in mine. And to be honest, the Toyota Autos are crackers so you shouldn't have many probs.

[JITSU]

I used an Auto RAV4 last Year to tow my Caravan (Swift Panache) and didn't have any problem at all. I now use a Manual to Tow the Caravan and it's not so nice...who wants to change gear anyway??

[dav806]

Thanks everyone for your posts, I'll keep my eyes open for a tidy automatic example and hide the keys from the wife!!! :D

[baughsurfer]

dav806

try www. whattowcar.com. on google etc, my rav ,d4d although a manual, pulls my 17 footer perfectly,and this from a converted citroen xantia freak. towcar of the year till they got fed up with it keeping winning

this site will also help you with your caravan weights as well