I currently drive a 2012 Rav4 Limited, v6 AWD, automatic transmission, and has 205k miles. There have been no major mechanical issues to date, and I stay on top of oil changes. My mechanic says the engine is seeping oil, but over the last three years he has said it's just something to keep an eye on, and every time I get my oil changed, he notes it, but doesn't recommend doing anything at this point. I have only had this car for three years, I bought it from a parent. Since owning it, I have just had the oil changed regularly and had to replace a wheel bearing and CV axle, I haven't done any other mainenance (other than tire rotations/new battery).
I've been considering selling it and getting a new 2021 or 2022 RAV4 or CX-5. With used cars selling for so high, I figured I might take advantage of the value my car has and get something with newer safety tech and an engine with no miles on it. My car is paid off, and I pay myself a car payment of 300 dollars a month that I put into a savings account for when I do eventually need a new car, so money isn't an issue. I had initially planned on driving my car to the ground though, or until it started having serious mechanical issues. With my cars current mileage and the oil seep, would it be smart to sell it now and get a new car, or could I reasonably push it another 75k+ miles without any expensive issues?
If I keep my current car, what should I have checked to be proactive about any potential issues now that I am pushing 205k miles?
Thanks!
Please don’t double post, thanks.
Well everything does wear out I would see what kind of money you can get for yours if you get good money go ahead and buy a new one and then you don't have to think about it for many decades.
I would keep it as it still has more life, plus it is already paid off and insurance will be cheaper! Realize the newer ones are more sophisticated and still unproven in terms of longevity/durability, and with more electronics just more things to break. In fact, one could argue Toyota is past peak reliability now so keep what you got. Obviously continue to stay on top of all the maintenance.
@trentken107, I love your question and find it helpful to me. I wish you the very best with the disposition of your car.
Does your response answer the OP’s unanswered question?
Keep it. For one thing, it does not have the dozens of microprocessors the new vehicles are larded with. My 2001 Sienna had a V6 and it was running great at 330,000 miles, when I had to trade it for something with AWD (moved back to the top of a mountain). If the oil has been changed regularly, then it should last, seepage or no. Alternatively, try to sell it, and use those proceeds for something with 10k or so. The dealer experience is worse than the worry of seepage.
