Table 1 shows two common visibility related problems of the 2002 Toyota RAV4.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Windshield Wiper/washer Linkages problems | |
| Side/rear Glass problems |
During heavy rain storm passenger side wiper linkage/mechanism broke. Luckily, this was while the blade was on the down stroke, otherwise it would have broken off the driver's side blade. Was told entire mechanism had to be replaced, at a cost of about $450.
By accident, I put my driver's side rear window approx. 1/2 way down . Unknowingly, I left the window down. When I reached an approximate speed of 40miles per hour, a very severe noise and vibration occurred. It was so severe, I pulled over to check the vehicle. I thought a tire had blown. The vibration and noise is very intense. Once the window is up, the noise and vibration stops. If a combination front/rear window down happens, it is not as noticable. I called Toyota, and they said it was a design flaw. Flaw or no, it is horrible. It could be tragic if a driver unaware pulls over quickly because they fear a tire is going to blow. At the minimum, I feel Toyota should send owners a letter describing the problem s they will not be alarmed. I will not put my rear windows down, and that in itself is sad to spend 23 thousand dollars on a new vehicle and be limited in that respect. Thanks for your attention to this matter. Linda jones.