TOYOTA RAV-4 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,882 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
2,882
Avg Mileage
118,412 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the TOYOTA brand average of 84%.
At 16 years old, 75% of TOYOTA RAV-4s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,882 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 118,412 miles.
How does the 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4 has 118,412 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a TOYOTA RAV-4?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 87% MOT pass rate, while the 1995 model has the lowest at 63%. The 2008 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
TOYOTA RAV-4 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 87% | 2,314 | 89,044 mi |
| 2013 | 86% | 2,378 | 89,784 mi |
| 2012 | 83% | 2,968 | 92,727 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 5,769 | 101,091 mi |
| 2010 | 81% | 5,925 | 108,667 mi |
| 2009 | 80% | 2,815 | 111,891 mi |
| 2008 | 75% | 2,882 | 118,412 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 4,787 | 124,487 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 5,749 | 125,232 mi |
| 2005 | 76% | 5,613 | 120,527 mi |
| 2004 | 75% | 4,420 | 119,012 mi |
| 2003 | 75% | 3,314 | 120,017 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 2,212 | 116,302 mi |
| 2001 | 76% | 1,327 | 120,035 mi |
| 2000 | 76% | 463 | 112,097 mi |
| 1999 | 73% | 447 | 124,230 mi |
| 1998 | 73% | 482 | 122,929 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 447 | 121,927 mi |
| 1996 | 72% | 204 | 122,888 mi |
| 1995 | 63% | 67 | 126,943 mi |
| 1994 | 77% | 39 | 129,896 mi |
Checking a specific TOYOTA RAV-4?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4
The 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4 is a family car with a 1998cc diesel engine. 2,882 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 118,412 miles at 16 years old, TOYOTA RAV-4 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 TOYOTA RAV-4 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TOYOTA RAV-4 Reliability Trend
Newer TOYOTA RAV-4s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4
At 16 years old, the TOYOTA RAV-4 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2014 model has the highest pass rate at 87%.
Alternatives to the 2008 TOYOTA RAV-4
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (+2%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-3%) from 45,025 tests