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Whats a 2009 RAV4 worth?

In today’s market, a 2009 Toyota RAV4 generally sits around $3,500 to $9,000, depending on mileage, condition, trim and local demand. Private-party sales tend to be at the lower end; dealer listings and well-maintained, low-mileage examples fetch higher prices.


Understanding the value landscape


Automotive valuation is a matter of cross-checking guidance from established sources with what buyers are actually paying in your area. Guides like Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and NADA provide a baseline, but local market dynamics can push prices up or down. Use multiple sources and compare similar vehicles to get a realistic target.


Key factors that influence worth


Several factors determine how much a 2009 RAV4 is worth in your area. Consider these as you shop or price your car:



  • Mileage: Generally, lower miles push value higher; high miles reduce value more sharply on an older model.

  • Condition and maintenance history: Documented service, clean interior and exterior, and no major mechanical issues raise value.

  • Trim level and drivetrain: Base, Sport, or Limited trims; AWD and any V6 option add value, though a V6 is rarer and may command a premium when in good condition.

  • Vehicle history: Clear title, no accidents, and strong cosmetic condition help value; a damaged history can significantly reduce it.

  • Regional demand and market conditions: Fuel prices, weather, and local demand for SUVs affect listing prices.


Conclusion: These factors interact, so expect a range of prices for any given car, and adjust your expectation based on what you find locally.


Rough value ranges by mileage and condition


Use this as a rough guide for private-party valuations; dealers may price higher to reflect overhead or warranties.



  • Under 100,000 miles: typically around $7,000–$9,000 if the vehicle is clean and well-maintained.

  • 100,000–150,000 miles: commonly $4,000–$7,000 depending on maintenance history and cosmetics.

  • Over 150,000 miles: often $3,500–$5,500 unless there are exceptional conditions or recent major maintenance.


Conclusion: Mileage is the strongest price driver; condition and service history can shift values by a few thousand dollars in either direction.


How to verify current value for your area


To nail down a fair price, check multiple sources and compare with local listings for similar cars.



  • Compare with valuation guides: Enter your exact trim, mileage, and condition on KBB, Edmunds, and NADA.

  • Survey local listings: See what similar 2009 RAV4s with comparable miles are actually asking and selling for in your market.

  • Factor recent maintenance: Recent brakes, tires, timing chain/belt, water pump, and other major services add value when documented.

  • Consider professional appraisal: Helpful if your vehicle has unique features or an unusual history.


Conclusion: Use a blend of official guides and real-world listings to triangulate a fair price in your area.


Trim and drivetrain notes


In 2009, the RAV4 offered a capable four-cylinder engine as the standard powertrain, with a V6 option on higher trims; all-wheel drive was available on most configurations. The value implications hinge on the engine and drivetrain condition, as well as whether the vehicle has a clean, well-documented maintenance record.


Summary


The 2009 Toyota RAV4 sits in a broad price band in 2025: roughly $3,500 to $9,000 depending on mileage, condition, and trim, with well-kept, low-mileage examples toward the higher end. To price accurately, cross-check KBB, Edmunds, and NADA, compare local listings for similar cars, and account for recent maintenance and any upcoming repairs. A transparent history and clean title can push the final number higher at sale.

What is the market value of a Toyota RAV4?


All Toyota RAV4 pricing and specs

YearPrice From*Price To*
2020$25,740$44,550
2019$17,490$41,360
2018$14,740$31,020
2017$12,760$28,050



Was 2009 a good year for the Toyota RAV4?


Among the 802 owners who provided feedback on the 2009 Toyota RAV4 for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 83% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and performance to be its strongest features and comfort to be its weakest.



What is the most common problem with RAV4?


Problems there can also be faulty solenoids. That can prevent the transmission going to a certain gear many of these problems are reportedly.



What year to stay away from RAV4?


Years to avoid for the Toyota RAV4 include 2001-2003 (transmission and ECM issues), 2006-2008 (excessive oil consumption), 2013-2015 (transmission hesitation and rough shifting), and 2019 (fuel pump failures, engine cooling problems, and engine issues). Additionally, hybrid models from the 5th generation may have issues with high-voltage cable corrosion and battery life, and some models can have paint peeling problems, especially around 2013. 
By model year 
This video explains the issues with the 2006-2008 model years: 1mCar ComfyYouTube · Jun 11, 2025

  • 2001-2003: Potential for transmission and Electronic Control Module (ECM) failures. 
  • 2006-2008: Excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.4L engine, and potential steering lockups. 
  • 2013: Reports of transmission hesitation, electrical fires, and paint peeling. 
  • 2014-2015: Transmission hesitation and rough shifting were common issues. 
  • 2019: Engine problems like oil leaks, cooling issues, and fuel pump failures were reported. Hybrid models also experienced issues with corroded high-voltage wiring. 

By type of problem
  • Transmission issues: 2001-2003, 2006-2008, 2009-2012, 2013-2015, and 2018 models have been associated with transmission problems. 
  • Engine/oil consumption: 2006-2008 models are known for excessive oil consumption, and 2019 models reported engine cooling and oil loss problems. 
  • Electrical issues: 2013 models have been linked to electrical fires, and 2019 models had infotainment glitches (which were often resolved by software updates). 
  • Hybrid-specific issues: Some 5th generation hybrid models have had issues with high-voltage cable corrosion and battery longevity. 
  • Other issues:
    • Paint peeling: Some owners of the 2013 model reported paint issues. 
    • Roof rack leaks: 2019-2021 models have been linked to leaky roof racks. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.