Buyer's checklist: 2nd gen Toyota RAV4 2001–2005

This checklist comes from a draft dossier that has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Inspection sheet Mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 1

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Hard shifting and hesitation2001–2003Drive it from cold through every gear, and feel for jerks, slurred shifts and hesitation.^1,2,3

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 06V0960002005Some side or curtain airbag inflators were assembled with too little heating agent, and the airbag may not fully inflate. Ask for proof the recall work was done.⁴
Recall 15V2840002004–2005Moisture can get into the driver airbag inflator over time, and it can rupture. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^5,4
Recall 19V7410002004–2005The replacement passenger airbag inflator, of the same design, can explode. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^5,4

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

2001 to 20032001–2003SlashGear says these years had a hard time, with transmission complaints at their worst in 2002.³

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.