This compact 5 seater AWD SUV gets a complete makeover for the 2019 model year. Now in its 5th generation, the RAV4 is one of the most popular SUVs in the Rocky Mountain region. It’s Toyota’s best selling vehicle in the U.S.
2019 RAV4 Specs
AWD
2.5 Litre 4 cylinder engine (NEW)
8-Speed automatic transmission (NEW)
203 hp (gas)
219 hp (HV models)
Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatible
Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2 (TSS 2.0)
ECO, NORMAL and SPORT modes
Prices start at $25,500 (MSRP)
2019 Toyota RAV4. Photo: Toyota.
RAV4 Trims
LE
LE Hybrid
XLE
XLE Hybrid
XLE Premium
Adventure
XSE Hybrid
Limited
Limited Hybrid
TRD Off-Road (ALL NEW TRIM for 2020)
Fuel Economy
CITY MPG
HIGHWAY MPG
COMBINED MPG
RAV4 2.5 L GAS
27
34
30
RAV4 2.5L GAS/HYBRID
41
38
40
Ground Clearance
An important factor to consider when living in the Rocky Mountain region or for when you need to take the vehicle off-road.
LE and XLE trims have 8.4″ of ground clearance.
XLE and above trim levels including the TRD Off Road model have 8.6″ of ground clearance.
Photo: Toyota.
Size
Wheelbase
105.9″
Overall Length (LE, XLE, XLE Premium & Limited)
180.9″
Overall Length (Adventure)
181.5″
Height (inc antenna) (LE, XLE)
67.0″
Height (inc antenna) (XLE Premium & Limited)
67.2″
Height (inc antenna) (Adventure)
68.6″
Approach angle
19 deg
Departure angle
21 deg
Space
Headroom
39.5″
Legroom 1st row
41.0″
Legroom 2nd row
37.8″
Shoulder room 1st row
57.8″
Shoulder room 2nd row
56.4″
EPA cargo volume (behind 2nd row)
37.6 cu.ft.
Note: Having the moonroof or panoramic sunroof deducts 2″ of headroom.
RAV4 LE
Multi LED headlights and tail lights, dual exhaust, color matched door handles, roof rails and privacy glass are all standard on the LE trim level. These are typically upgrades found on a mid trim level
Also included are two 12v power outlets.
Starting at $25,500.
RAV4 XLE
2019 Toyota RAV4 XLE. Photo. Toyota.
Additions to the next trim level up, the 2019 RAV4 XLE includes 17″ alloy wheels, chrome bezels on the headlights and auto ON/OFF headlamps. Color matched exterior mirrors with blind spot warning indicators and fog lamps are also added.
A one-touch power moonroof, dual zone climate, rear vents, remote keyless entry and 4 USB charging ports bring more convenience to the XLE.
Optional upgrades include the 8″ touchscreen and a height-adjustable power liftgate.
Starting at $27,300 MSRP.
RAV4 XLE Premium
2019 RAV4 XLE Premium in Blue Flame. Photo: Toyota.
Expanding on the 2019 RAV4 XLE, the premium trim features 19″ alloy wheels, SofTex-trimmed seats, power liftgate, 8-way power driver’s seat and a leather-trimmed shift level with a sequential mode.
2019 RAV4 XLE Premium interior. Photo: Toyota.
Available upgrades are the 8″ touchscreen, digital rear view mirror and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking.
Starting at $29,500 MSRP.
RAV4 Adventure
2019 RAV4 Adventure. Photo: Toyota.
Geared more towards off-road, the 2019 RAV4 Adventure trim gets robust styling cues such as larger over fenders, high roof-bars, aggressive bumper, active grille shutters, and fog light surrounds.
The Adventure trim has an available Ice-Edge color roof option. Color options are; Midnight Black Metallic, Blue Flame, and Lunar Rock.
2019 RAV4 Adventure in Lunar Rock with Ice Edge roof. Photo: Toyota.
Orange accent stitching is on the interior SofTex material as well as other orange accents are exclusive to the Adventure trim.
RAV4 Adventure interior. Photo: Toyota.
Available extras include heated and ventilated seats.
Starting at $32,900.
RAV4 Limited
This trim level is the top of line with luxury refinements. Silver accents ornament the front and rear bumpers. 19″ alloy wheels and added chrome accents give the Limited a refined and finished luxury look.
2019 RAV4 Limited. Photo: Toyota.
An 8″ color touchscreen with navigation and premium audio is standard. A power liftgate is also standard and hands-free power liftgate an optional extra as well a panoramic sunroof.
8-way power adjustable heated front bucket seat are wrapped in SofTex with memory settings is standard on the 2019 RAV4 Limited.
A digital rearview mirror is standard that allows a wider angle view along with a brightened night image and dimming of headlights.
Heated and ventilated front seats, as well as heated rear seats and Bird’s Eye View camera, are available extras on the RAV4 Limited.
Limited trim prices start at $33,500 MSRP.
2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road
Arriving in the fall, the new TRD Off-Road spec RAV4 will be a 2020 model year.
Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road. Photo: Toyota.
Features include;
Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD
TRD Off-Road suspension (inspired by Rally RAV4 Race Team)
Falken Wildpeak All Terrain Trail tires.
TRD 18″ Flow-Formed Matt Black aluminum wheels
Selectable drive modes; Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, and Snow
Screen display showing torque allocation and slip control
Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
Downhill Assist Control (DAC)
LED front fog lamps
Red interior stitching accents including the TRD logo on front head rests.
Exclusive color, two-tone Magnetic Gray Metallic with Ice Edge roof color
Also available in Midnight Black or Lunar Rock (with option Ice Edge color roof) and Ruby Flare Pearl or Super White.
Tuesday April 23rd 2019, the Banff Mountain Film Festival comes to Sheridan. Wyoming.
Valentine Fabre, Dent du Geant, by Ben Tibbetts
Held at the WYO Theater on 42 N Main Street, Sheridan, the show starts at 6.30pm.
The film festival world tour begins after the festival itself in Banff, Canada. Bringing amazing awe-inspiring outdoor videos and cinematography to Wyoming.
2020 Toyota Sequoia will have Apple CarPlay. Photo: Toyota
Toyota is one of the last car manufacturers to offer compatibility with Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto. Some 2019 model years still have Toyota’s Entune system.
The software allows for integration with smartphones on new vehicles. Making phone calls, text messaging through voice, and music applications easy to use.
The software gives the ability to project a map on the touchscreen and give voice directions for navigation. The software makes built-in navigation systems redundant.
Most other car manufacturers have had this available for a couple of years now.
According to Bloomberg, a Toyota spokesperson said they had been reluctant to add the “…software due safety and security reasons.”
Moving forward, Apple CarPlay is either here now on certain Toyota models or coming soon.
Do you have a vehicle with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto? How do you like it? Will having this software in a vehicle, affect your future car purchase decision? Let us know in the comments below.
For information on Toyota vehicles, contact your preferred Toyota dealership.
Brakes on vehicles can make all sorts of weird noises from squealing, squeaking, screeching, hissing, scratching, swooshing and grinding.
Sometimes it’s normal and sometimes it’s not.
Read more to find out whether you need to get those squeaking brakes checked or not.
How do brakes work?
It’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of how the brake system in a vehicle works.
Most modern vehicles have brake rotors, brake pads and brake calipers (older vehicles may have brake drums on the rear). These all sit behind each wheel of the car or truck.
The caliper holds the brake pads. When you press the brake pedal, this makes the caliper push the pads onto the rotor.
Upon brake pads making contact with the rotor, friction is caused and thus slows the wheel down.
Causes of squeaking brakes
Worn brake pads (brake pad wear indicator triggered)
Temperature difference
Compound material of the brake pads
Warped brake rotors
Moisture
Missing brake pad insulation shim
Anti-rattle clips missing or not aligned
Worn Brake Pads
Brakes squeaking from worn brake pads is definitively the one you need to fix.
Brake pads can be fitted with a warning indicator which will result in a loud squealing noise when the pad is near the end of it’s life.
A visual wear indicator on the pad consists of a groove that runs across the pad. When the material on the pad is flush with the indicator, it’s time for new pads.
Wear indicator on brake pad. This pad shows it still has some life left.
If you are not familiar with replacing the pads/rotors on your vehicle, take it to a local brake expert.
Some repair shops even offer free brake checks, or they are checked during routine maintenance like oil changes.
Look at your brake pad to see how much of the pad is left. You may need a flashlight, but should be able to see it without taking the wheel off.
If the brake pad is less than 1/4″ thick, they probably need replacing.
How long do brake pads last?
Typically between 25,000-50,000 miles. This all depends on the type of brake pad and how hard or how often the vehicle is driven. Lesser quality pads may also wear faster than normal.
Brand new set of brake pads.
Also know that a vehicle sitting for a lonf periods of time without being driven, can cause deterioration of the pads too.
Temperature Difference
Too cold
When the temperature gets below 32 F, snow and ice can build on brake pads and rotors. Even water that gets in there can later freeze causing and ice build up.
This can cause a squealing or squeaking brake noise but should only be temporary as the ice and moisture melts/disspates.
Too hot
Glazing of the brake pads and rotors happens when the pads overheat.
Excessive hard braking, dragging the brake or problems with the system causing the brake to stick on the rotor more than it should.
Overheating the pads results in them becoming hard and/or shiny which reduces the friction. If brakes are glazed, this will eventually cause a build of material on the rotor too, braking delays and a shudder.
If the brake pads are glazed, they need to be replaced. The compound of the pad is effectively ruined at this point.
Brake pad compound (material)
Some brake pads come with a wear-in material. When the pads are brand new, they may squeak a little until they are broken in.
Pads with a high metal content can cause squeaking or squealing when braking.
Race cars can often have brake set-ups that squeals due to the compound material the competition pads are made of. The desired effect of the pad and rotor combination is maximum braking under hard driving conditions. They work best when they are hot. It is normal for high-end brake set-ups to squeal.
Carbon ceramic brake set-ups are also known to be noisier.
Squeaking brakes is a small side effect to pay in return for the brakes being able to stop a car at high speeds.
High temperature grease can be applied to the back of the pad to reduce some noise in this instance.
Warped brake rotors
Rotors are round and supposed to be flat. Completely flat on the surface that the pad makes contact with. The term for a completely flat surface on brake rotors is called honest.
If the rotors are not honest, this results in vibrations due to pads getting bumped on the uneven surface. This can cause further damage and other parts or prices to become misaligned.
It’s likely a vibration from the brake pedal or steering wheel is felt before squeaking brakes in this instance.
Moisture
Water getting on the rotors and pads can cause squeaking brakes.
Snow, rain and/or condensation build up can make the brakes squeal when pressing the brake pedal.
Moisture can also cause the rotors to rust. Rust can also cause some noises from the brakes. The noise should go away after some driving. Applying the brakes should help clean the rust off the rotors.
Missing shims
hims are there to reduce noise by dampening vibrations between the pads and rotors.
If the shim is missing, misaligned or not making contact with the brake pad, it can’t do it’s job. This will increase the likelihood of brakes squeaking.
Anti-rattle clips missing or not aligned
Missing or misaligned anti-rattle clips can cause squeaking brakes. Anti-rattle clips are pieces of metal that hold the brake pad tight to avoid rattling.
Other hardware that’s missing, out of alignment or rusted can also be the culprit in squeaking brakes.
When to get squeaking brakes checked
Squeaking brakes can sometimes be normal, due to factors such as moisture, ice, rust, cheap brake pads, or performance brake pads compounds.
Being able to brake efficiently is a major part of vehicles safety. If your brakes are not working as good as they did, or it’s taking a lot longer to stop, have them checked.
If your brakes are spongy or not very responsive, have them checked.
When the squealing or squeaking noise is unbearable, definitely have your brakes looked at.
Fremont Motor Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM repair shop, in Casper, WY.
Less than a 1/4″ of pad thickness left? It’s time for new pads.
Finally, if you aren’t sure but are are still concerned, its better to be safer than sorry when it comes to brakes. As mentioned earlier, most reputable auto repair shops will check them for free.
Every year motorists around the country are required to get their vehicles inspected, which includes periodic safety inspections of things like brakes. Here in Wyoming vehicle owners are NOT required to obtain state brake inspections, so it’s important to check your brakes regularly.
A good rule of thumb is to get the brakes inspected every year.
In the scheme of things brakes almost go unnoticed, until you really need them and play a significant role in bringing your vehicle to a halt.
During your day to day commutes, several tell-tale signs warn you that you may need to get your brakes checked.
Here are the Seven Signs You May Need To Get Your Vehicle’s Brakes Checked.
Dashboard Brake Warning Light Displays
Hear Weird Noises Coming From The Brake
The Vehicle Takes Longer To Stop Than Normal
The Vehicle Swerves Or Weaves When Braking
Brake Pedal Feels Mushy Or Different When Braking
The Vehicle Vibrates When Slowing Down
Brake Fluid Is Low Or Drains Quickly
Brake warning lights
Dashboard Brake Warning Light Displays
Brake warning lights are the easiest and most efficient way to get information about your brakes. Once the vehicle onboard diagnostic system notices something isn’t right, a warning brake light will display.
If a brake warning light does illuminate, refer to your owners manual for instructions on what to do. When a brake issue occurs, you may need to bring the vehicle to see a qualified mechanic.
Note: When in doubt – Get a professional to look over your brakes by going to your dealership or a brake specialist.
Unusual Noises
When your vehicle starts to make unusual noises while driving it is a clear sign that your car needs an inspection.
Worn out brakes will often make shutter noises or squeals when the brakes are applied. Usually, these noises have to do with brake pads hitting the rotors at irregular intervals.
Continuing to drive with bad brakes can cause severe damage to the rotors as well as create safety issues.
When you hear a high pitch noise, get your brakes checked right away to avoid severe damage.
Watch out for changes in weather and braking distances.
Vehicle Takes A Long Time to Stop
In cases where your car takes longer than usual to stop, you may need to consider getting your brakes checked by a professional.
When pressing down on your brakes, if it takes longer than average to stop or come to an immediate halt, you may have a brake problem.
Be aware that changing temperatures and precipitation can significantly affect stopping distance.
Vehicle Swerves or Weaves
Brakes are supposed to bring a car to a halt in a straight line rather than making the car weave or swerve to one side. If you experience a vehicle swerving or weaving when trying to stop, pull over to a safe area and call for a tow truck.
In most cases, the brakes are being applied unevenly to one side of the vehicle or wheel. It’s a sure sign you need to get your brakes serviced right away.
Brake Pedal feels Mushy or different when braking
If you notice your brake pedal feels a little off, it might not be your imagination. Over time, like any other vehicle part, brakes get worn and at some point need to be replaced.
Changes in brake pressure is usually a sign that the brake pads might be wearing out.
As always, when in doubt, get the brakes checked.
Vibrations
If you experience vibrations at any point when applying brakes, you need to get your brakes inspected.
Frequently vibrations are caused by disc/rotor or drum surface issues. A simple check by a competent mechanic should be able to determine the problem.
Don’t forget to check your brake fluids.
Check your Brake Fluids
A simple yet clear sign of brake issues is leaking or low brake fluid. If you find that there are wet or moist spots left by your car, you may have a fluid leak. Brake fluid tends to look greyish or clear in color and has an oily feel to it, sort of like cooking oil.
One easy method to test for a leak is to place cardboard under the engine overnight and in the morning check for any oily substances. If there is, it could be an oil leak or brake fluid. In any case, it would be wise to get the vehicle inspected.
Besides all the above getting your brakes replaced on time and according to schedule maintenance is the best way to avoid potential brake issues down the road.
“Born and raised in Sheridan, Wyoming and have lived here for over 30 years.”
How long have you worked in the Auto Industry?
“I have been in the auto industry for just under a year.”
What is your favorite part of the job?
“My favorite part of my job is to capture people’s excitement. To see their faces light up when they get to drive their new vehicle home from Fremont Motor Sheridan Toyota.”
Biggest achievement?
“My biggest achievement is being the best father that I can be to my wonderful 7-year-old daughter.”
Growing up as a child, what did you want your career to be?
“When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a major league baseball player.”
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
“In my free time, I enjoy all sorts of sports including golf, tennis, basketball, and bowling. I also enjoy spending as much time as I can with my daughter.”
Roger Federer serving at a Tennis match in Wimbledon, UK. Photo: Zoe Reeve
What kind of music do you like?
“I literally like every genre of music except for death metal. My music collection is quite diverse.”
How about your favorite food?
Greg says, “My favorite food is a filet mignon with lobster tail.”
Do you have a favorite movie line?
“It would have to be “well, that’s just like… your opinion, man” from the Big Lebowski.”
Given the chance, who would you like to be for a day?
“I have always been a huge fan of Roger Federer. Such a gentleman of a champion, and such a great sport. Not to mention the greatest tennis player in history. Plus, he seems to have a happy life completely figured out, with a wonderful wife and two different sets of identical twins.”
Tell us about your first car?
1980 Toyota Celica, Photo: Toyota
“My first car was a 1980 Toyota Celica hatchback coupe. Five-speed manual. Rear wheel drive. My friends nicknamed it Whiplash, for when I was struggling to learn how to drive it.”
If money was no object, what car, truck or vehicle would you own?
“My dream car has always been a Ferrari 550 Maranello.”
Photo courtesy: Newspress USA
If you’d like to get in touch with Greg Legerski, you can reach him at (307) 206-2595 or email him.
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