The facelifted, front-wheel-drive first-generation Toyota RAV4 (1998–2000) delivers the same upright driving position and compact footprint that launched the small-SUV boom—without the complexity or fuel penalty of four-wheel drive. Under the hood is Toyota’s proven 3S-FE 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a belt-driven DOHC engine that favors longevity and efficiency over outright speed. In daily use the FWD facelift RAV4 feels light, maneuverable, and easy to park, yet it still hauls a week’s shopping or camping gear thanks to a square cargo bay and a rear swing-gate with a low liftover. The refresh brought cleaner bumpers, revised lighting, and cabin tweaks while keeping the trusted platform, independent suspension, and well-tuned ride. If you want a simple, economical runabout that handles winter with good tires and rewards routine maintenance, this is one of the least risky 1990s SUVs to buy and keep.
At a Glance
- Nimble, city-friendly size with simple FWD layout and low running costs.
- Durable 3S-FE 2.0-liter with easy parts sourcing and straightforward DIY service.
- Comfortable ride and excellent visibility; cargo area is boxy and genuinely useful.
- Watch timing-belt age and radiator end-tank condition; inspect rear drums for adjustment.
- Oil and filter every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) or 6–12 months.
Guide contents
- RAV4 FWD 98–00 Overview
- RAV4 FWD Specs and Data
- Trims, Options, and Safety Tech
- Reliability, Problems, and Service Actions
- Maintenance Plan and Buyer’s Guide
- Driving Impressions and Performance
- RAV4 Versus Rivals
RAV4 FWD 98–00 Overview
The FWD facelift Toyota RAV4 from 1998 to 2000 takes the original “car-based SUV” formula and distills it to its simplest, most economical form. Because it drives only the front wheels, there is less driveline mass, fewer wear items, and slightly better fuel economy than comparable 4WD models. On dry pavement, the FWD RAV4 feels lighter on its feet and gives up surprisingly little traction thanks to sensible gearing, independent suspension at all four corners, and a well-balanced chassis tune. On snow or gravel, quality all-season or winter tires are the real differentiator; add weight over the rear axle only if necessary, and let the car’s linear throttle mapping work for you.
Mechanically, the star is Toyota’s 3S-FE 2.0-liter inline-four. It is an iron-block, aluminum-head, 16-valve DOHC unit designed for durability and moderate operating costs. The timing belt requires periodic replacement, but the job is straightforward and typically bundled with the water pump and idlers. Routine service items—spark plugs, air and fuel filters, PCV valve—are all accessible. The five-speed manual maximizes the engine’s modest torque and makes the car feel more eager; the four-speed automatic emphasizes low-rpm cruising and simplicity. Either way, throttle response is crisp for a naturally aspirated engine, and the RAV4’s low curb weight helps it keep up with traffic.
Inside, the facelift cleaned up textures and fabrics while keeping the signature tall seating and low cowl for outstanding outward visibility. The rear cabin folds nearly flat for a large, usable load floor, and the side-hinged tailgate with an externally mounted spare preserves full cargo height. The cabin is not luxury-quiet, but wind and road noise are steady rather than coarse. Controls are clear, HVAC is robust, and ergonomics remain intuitive. In short, the FWD facelift RAV4 is an easy keeper: simple to own, cheap to feed, and hard to break if you stay on top of fluids and belts.
RAV4 FWD Specs and Data
Engine and Performance (ICE-only)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Code | 3S-FE |
| Layout & cylinders | Inline-4 (I-4), DOHC, 16 valves |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 × 86.0 mm (3.39 × 3.39 in) |
| Displacement | 2.0 L (1,998 cc) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI) |
| Compression ratio | ~9.5:1 (calibration dependent) |
| Max power | 120 hp (89 kW) @ ~5,400 rpm |
| Max torque | ~170 Nm (125 lb-ft) @ ~4,400 rpm |
| Timing drive | Belt (cambelt) |
| Emissions/efficiency standard | U.S. EPA gasoline (period Tier-1/LEV calibrations) |
| Rated economy (typical) | Combined ~24 mpg US (9.8 L/100 km); City ~22 mpg; Hwy ~27 mpg |
| Real-world highway @ 75 mph (120 km/h) | ~25–28 mpg US (9.4–8.4 L/100 km), tire and wind sensitive |
| Aerodynamics | Cd ~0.36–0.38 (body/roof-rack dependent) |
Transmission and Driveline (FWD)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Transmissions | 5-speed manual (S-series) / 4-speed automatic (A-series) |
| Manual gear ratios | 1st 3.285 • 2nd 1.960 • 3rd 1.322 • 4th 1.028 • 5th 0.820 • Rev 3.153 |
| Manual final drive | ~4.176 |
| Automatic gear ratios | 1st 2.810 • 2nd 1.549 • 3rd 1.000 • 4th 0.700 • Rev 2.296 |
| Automatic final drive | ~3.943 |
| Drive type | FWD (open differential) |
| Refuel to full (gasoline) | ~5–7 minutes (typical station flow) |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | 3-Door | 5-Door |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension (front/rear) | MacPherson strut / Double wishbone with trailing links | MacPherson strut / Double wishbone with trailing links |
| Steering | Power rack-and-pinion | Power rack-and-pinion |
| Brakes | Ventilated front discs / rear drums; ABS optional | Ventilated front discs / rear drums; ABS optional |
| Wheels/Tires | 16-in rims; 215/70R16 typical | 16-in rims; 215/70R16 typical |
| Ground clearance | ~190 mm (7.5 in) | ~190 mm (7.5 in) |
| Length × width × height | ~3,745–3,900 × 1,695 × 1,645 mm (147.4–153.5 × 66.7 × 64.8 in) | ~4,115 × 1,695 × 1,650 mm (162.0 × 66.7 × 65.0 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,200 mm (86.6 in) | 2,410 mm (94.9 in) |
| Turning circle (curb-to-curb) | ~10.2 m (33.5 ft) | ~10.6 m (34.8 ft) |
| Curb weight (typical) | ~1,185–1,260 kg (2,615–2,780 lb) | ~1,235–1,315 kg (2,720–2,900 lb) |
| GVWR | ~1,650–1,700 kg (3,638–3,748 lb) | ~1,700–1,760 kg (3,748–3,880 lb) |
| Fuel tank | ~58 L (15.3 US gal / 12.7 UK gal) | ~58 L (15.3 US gal / 12.7 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume (seats up / down) | ~320 / 1,000 L (11.3 / 35.3 ft³) | ~760 / 1,640 L (26.8 / 57.9 ft³) |
Performance and Capability
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ~11.5–12.5 s (configuration dependent) |
| Top speed | ~170 km/h (106 mph) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h (62–0 mph) | ~39–43 m (128–141 ft), tire condition dependent |
| Towing capacity (max) | 680 kg (1,500 lb) |
| Payload (typical) | ~385–450 kg (850–990 lb) |
| Roof load | ~50–75 kg (110–165 lb), confirm rack rating |
Fluids and Service Capacities (guide values; verify by VIN/label)
| System | Specification | Capacity (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | API SJ or later; 5W-30 common | ~3.8–4.3 L (4.0–4.5 qt) with filter |
| Coolant | Toyota Long Life (red) or compatible, 50/50 | ~5.5–6.5 L (5.8–6.9 qt) |
| Automatic transmission | Dexron III-spec ATF | ~2.6–3.2 L (2.7–3.4 qt) per drain |
| Manual transmission | GL-4/GL-5 75W-90 | ~2.1–2.5 L (2.2–2.6 qt) |
| Differential (FWD) | N/A separate rear diff (FWD) | — |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 (DOT 4 acceptable if system clean) | Fill to mark |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a; ND-Oil 8 compressor oil | ~550–650 g (19–23 oz) |
| Key torque specs | Wheel lugs ~103 Nm (76 lb-ft); oil drain ~39 Nm (29 lb-ft) | — |
Electrical
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Alternator output | ~70–80 A |
| 12-V battery | Group 35/26R common; 45–60 Ah; CCA by climate |
| Spark plugs | Nickel/iridium per spec; gap ~1.1 mm (0.043 in) |
Safety and Driver Assistance (period features)
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Crash ratings (period protocols) | Solid for class; lacks modern side/curtain testing |
| Headlights | Halogen reflectors; restore lenses for best results |
| Restraints | Dual front airbags; front pretensioners; rear child-safety locks |
| Child seats | Top-tether provisions available; LATCH not yet standardized |
| ADAS | No AEB/ACC/LKA; ABS optional; no stability control on most builds |
Trims, Options, and Safety Tech
Body styles and packaging
During 1998–2000 the facelift RAV4 came as a three-door (including soft-top in limited numbers) and a five-door. In North America, FWD and 4WD were both offered; this guide focuses on FWD. Features were largely bundled via convenience and cold-weather packages rather than distinct performance trims.
Quick identifiers
- Exterior: Updated bumpers and lamps (1998+), 16-inch wheels (steel or alloy), black vs body-color mirrors depending on package, roof rails common on five-door.
- Interior: Durable cloth fabrics, clear analog cluster, rotary HVAC, some variants with leather-wrapped steering wheel and CD audio late in the run.
- Badging: Rear “RAV4” and “2WD”/no “4WD” identifiers on many FWD builds; check door jamb for axle/trans codes.
Functional differences to note
- FWD vs 4WD: FWD is lighter and more economical; driveline is simpler (no prop shaft, no rear diff), lowering maintenance and tire-rotation sensitivity.
- Transmissions: Five-speed manual (more responsive in city driving) versus four-speed automatic (relaxed highway behavior).
- Brakes: Front discs with rear drums on most cars; ABS typically optional and worth having for winter driving.
Year-to-year highlights
- 1998: Refreshed styling, minor NVH improvements, options shuffled.
- 1999: Increased ABS take-rate, updated wheel designs and fabrics.
- 2000: Late-run color and audio tweaks as the second generation approached.
Safety ratings and equipment context
Crash-test language from the late 1990s reflects different test protocols than today. The facelift RAV4’s structure and restraint performance were competitive for its class and era, but it lacks side airbags, curtains, and electronic stability control. Head-restraint geometry also predates modern active designs. Headlight performance depends heavily on lens clarity and aim; UV-hazed lenses can be restored or replaced inexpensively. If you carry children, ask a dealer about top-tether anchor kits for these years and verify seat-belt locking methods for your specific child seat.
Service and calibration implications
There are no radar/camera ADAS modules to recalibrate after glass or bumper work. ABS wheel-speed sensors and tone rings, however, need careful handling during axle or hub service to avoid faults. After suspension work, a proper alignment is essential to preserve tire life and straight-line stability.
Reliability, Problems, and Service Actions
The facelift FWD XA10 RAV4 is a low-drama platform when serviced on schedule. Most issues now stem from age and deferred maintenance rather than design flaws. Below is a practical map—grouped by prevalence and cost—to help you evaluate and care for one.
Engine (3S-FE)
- Timing-belt age (common | medium cost): Belts time out as well as wear out. Aged belts, idlers, or water pumps can fail unpredictably. Remedy: Replace belt, tensioner/idlers, and water pump every 60k–90k miles (96k–145k km) or 7–9 years.
- Valve-cover/cam seals seep (common | low): Hardened seals mist oil onto the block. Remedy: Renew seals; verify PCV system is free and breathing correctly.
- Throttle body/IAC carbon (occasional | low): Rough idle or stalling when cold. Remedy: Clean throttle plate and idle-air passages; perform base-idle learn as specified.
- O2 sensor aging (occasional | low): Lazy sensor hurts economy and emissions. Remedy: Replace with correct-spec sensor; check for exhaust leaks upstream.
Cooling system
- Radiator end-tank cracks (common | medium): Plastic tanks fatigue at the crimp, leading to slow leaks and sweet smell. Remedy: Replace radiator; renew thermostat and cap; pressure-test and bleed thoroughly.
- Heater core/hoses (occasional | medium): Damp passenger footwell or coolant odor. Remedy: Replace aging hoses; inspect heater control valve if fitted; ensure correct coolant mix.
Fuel/ignition
- Distributor O-ring seep (occasional | low): Oil on the distributor body or adjacent wiring. Remedy: Reseal; if shaft play is present, replace distributor; recheck base timing.
- Ignition leads/plugs wear (common | low): Misfire under load; economy drops. Remedy: Fresh plugs (nickel or iridium per spec) and quality leads restore performance.
Transmissions and driveline (FWD)
- 4AT flare/shudder with old ATF (occasional | medium): Aging fluid changes friction characteristics. Remedy: Multiple drain/refills with Dexron III-equivalent; avoid aggressive flushes on unknown history.
- 5MT clutch wear (mileage-dependent | medium): Slip in higher gears. Remedy: Replace clutch set (disc, cover, release bearing) and inspect rear main seal and flywheel surface.
- CV-boot splits (common | low): Outer boots crack with age. Remedy: Reboot or replace half-shafts; inspect seals and alignment afterward.
- Wheel bearings (occasional | medium): Growl or rumble at speed. Remedy: Press-in replacement; observe correct preload; confirm ABS tone ring intact.
Chassis and brakes
- Rear drum long pedal (common | low): Misadjustment or glazed shoes. Remedy: De-glaze drums/shoes, replace hardware springs, adjust correctly, and flush brake fluid every two years.
- Strut mounts/bushings (common | medium): Clunks over sharp impacts. Remedy: New top mounts/bushings; align after installation.
- Corrosion hotspots (climate-dependent | variable): Rear subframe mounts, brake/fuel lines, exhaust flanges, and tailgate lower seam. Remedy: Lift inspection, treat/replace, and protect lines where permitted.
Electrical
- Grounds/connectors (occasional | low): Intermittent sensor readings or slow cranking. Remedy: Clean grounds, protect with dielectric grease, check charging voltage (13.8–14.6 V).
- Alternator fatigue (occasional | medium): Dim lights at idle with accessories. Remedy: Test and replace alternator and belt if needed.
Recalls/TSBs to verify
- Takata front airbag inflators (VIN-specific): Ensure inflator replacement is completed at no cost.
- Seatbelt/seat anchor checks (market-specific): Confirm via dealer records.
- ABS sensor wiring routing (rare): Inspect after axle/strut work to prevent chafing.
Pre-purchase essentials
- Proof of timing-belt/water-pump service, coolant renewal, and recent brake-fluid flush.
- Photos of the underside for corrosion and exhaust condition.
- Evidence of ATF service (if automatic) or gear-oil changes (if manual).
- Clean recall report from an official VIN check and dealer confirmation.
Maintenance Plan and Buyer’s Guide
Service schedule (distance/time—whichever comes first)
- Engine oil & filter: 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) or 6–12 months; 5W-30 commonly specified.
- Engine air filter: Inspect at 15,000 miles (24,000 km) / 12 months; replace as required.
- Cabin/pollen filter: Some early vehicles lack an OE cabin filter; retrofit screens help—check annually.
- Spark plugs: Copper ~30,000 miles (48,000 km); iridium 60,000–100,000 miles (96,000–160,000 km) if spec’d.
- Coolant: 2–3 years (or per long-life coolant guidance); test annually for protection and pH.
- Timing belt (with pump/idlers): 60,000–90,000 miles (96,000–145,000 km) or 7–9 years.
- Accessory belts/hoses: Inspect at every oil change; replace at first signs of cracking, glazing, or swelling.
- Manual gearbox oil: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (GL-4/GL-5 75W-90).
- Automatic transmission ATF: Drain/refill every 30,000–50,000 miles (48,000–80,000 km), usage-dependent.
- Brake fluid: Flush every 2 years; inspect rear drum hardware and shoe adjustment at the same time.
- Brake pads/shoes & rotors/drums: Inspect at 10,000–15,000 miles (16,000–24,000 km).
- Alignment & tire rotation: Rotate every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km); align yearly or after suspension work.
- 12-V battery: Load-test annually after year four; replace proactively in cold climates.
Fluids quick list (decision-maker values)
- Engine oil: API SJ or later, 5W-30; ~4.0–4.5 qt with filter.
- Coolant: Toyota Long Life (red) / compatible; ~6 qt total.
- ATF (4AT): Dexron III; ~2.7–3.4 qt per drain.
- Gear oil (5MT): GL-4/GL-5 75W-90; ~2.2–2.6 qt.
- Brake fluid: DOT 3 (DOT 4 acceptable).
- A/C: R-134a; ND-Oil 8; charge by weight from the under-hood label.
Buyer’s inspection checklist
- Rust: Rear subframe mounts, brake/fuel lines, tailgate lower seam, and exhaust flanges.
- Cooling system: Pink/white crust at radiator crimps or the water-pump weep hole; confirm steady operating temperature.
- Driveline: CV boots intact, no axle grease slung onto suspension; listen for bearing growl on sweepers.
- Brakes: Firm pedal, even shoe wear, correct rear-drum adjustment, and ABS light self-checks.
- Suspension: Strut top-mount noise, rear trailing-arm bushing play, and alignment wear on tire shoulders.
- Electrics: Charging voltage 13.8–14.6 V; clean grounds; verify all lights and HVAC fan speeds.
- Documentation: Timing-belt receipts, fluid services, and an official recall report showing zero open campaigns.
What to pay attention to on a test drive
- Cold start idle stability and throttle tip-in smoothness.
- 4th-to-5th pull on the manual (no clutch slip); 2–3 upshift quality on the automatic (no flare).
- Straight-line tracking at 50–70 mph (80–113 km/h) and brake-pedal feel in a controlled stop.
Durability outlook
Kept on schedule with clean fluids, fresh cooling components, and an up-to-date belt, the FWD facelift RAV4 commonly covers 200k–300k miles (320k–480k km). Its value lies in predictability: minimal electronics, robust hardware, and a parts network that still supports daily use.
Driving Impressions and Performance
Ride and handling
The FWD RAV4’s independent suspension and modest curb weight deliver a forgiving ride over broken pavement and speed bumps. Body roll is present but progressive, and the chassis communicates weight transfer cleanly so you always know where grip is. The turning circle is tight enough to handle alley-way turnarounds and small parking lots, and the steering—light at low speed—builds just enough effort on center to stay relaxed on the highway.
Steering and braking feel
Toyota prioritized predictability. With healthy front discs and correctly adjusted rear drums, pedal feel is firm and linear. ABS (if fitted) keeps the car steerable on slick surfaces; a gentle pulse in the pedal during hard stops is normal. Steering is not sports-car quick, but it is accurate and isolates kickback on potholes well for a 1990s compact SUV.
Powertrain character
The 3S-FE makes its best work between ~2,500 and 4,500 rpm. In town, the five-speed manual allows you to keep the engine in that sweet spot and makes the car feel sprightly. The four-speed automatic is tuned to short-shift and keep revs low, which suits relaxed commuting and helps economy. There is no turbo lag to discuss—just straightforward naturally aspirated response, helped by the RAV4’s light mass.
Real-world efficiency
Healthy FWD facelift examples typically return 22–24 mpg US city / 27–30 mpg US highway (10.7–9.4 L/100 km city / 8.7–7.8 L/100 km highway), depending on tires, roof racks, altitude, and winter fuel blends. Cold starts, short trips, and under-inflated tires are the usual efficiency killers; a clean air filter, fresh plugs, and a responsive oxygen sensor can regain 1–2 mpg.
Traction and weather
On rain-slick or snowy pavement, good all-season or dedicated winter tires make the difference. With FWD the car pulls itself straight, and traction control is not present to intervene—smooth throttle and proper tires yield the best results. For gravel trailheads and muddy car-parks, momentum and smooth steering keep things easy; remember there is no low-range gearing and limited ground clearance, so pick your lines accordingly.
Load and tow behavior
The RAV4’s tow rating is 1,500 lb (680 kg). Given its short wheelbase, keep tongue weight conservative, leave extra braking margin, and downshift earlier on grades to manage coolant and (if automatic) ATF temperatures. Expect a 10–25% fuel-economy penalty when towing or carrying a full load on the roof.
RAV4 Versus Rivals
Honda CR-V (first generation, 1997–2001)
The CR-V offers slightly more interior space and, in many trims, rear disc brakes. Its dual-pump AWD is reactive (front-drive until slip), whereas the RAV4 here is pure FWD. Long-term, the Toyota often has fewer major engine-related repairs, though both are durable. If you prioritize cargo volume, the CR-V edges it; if you want a lighter, simpler feel, the FWD RAV4 is appealing.
Subaru Forester (first generation, 1998–2002)
Standard AWD and a boxer engine give the Forester confident winter manners and low-mounted mass. However, some engines of this era have well-known head-gasket concerns as mileage accrues. The RAV4 counters with simpler hardware, slightly better city maneuverability, and generally lower long-term risk if maintenance is unknown.
Isuzu Rodeo/Honda Passport (body-on-frame midsize)
These offer higher tow ratings and available V6 torque, but they are bigger, thirstier, and heavier to maneuver. Maintenance and parts sourcing can be less convenient today. If you need to tow or run rougher tracks routinely, they make sense; for urban and suburban duty cycles, the RAV4 is easier and cheaper to live with.
Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute (arriving 2001)
When cross-shopping used vehicles today, early Escapes deliver more power and a more modern cabin but arrived after the XA10’s run and had early-series teething issues. The older RAV4 often feels simpler and more robust with age, especially in FWD form.
Bottom line
Choose the FWD facelift RAV4 if you value simplicity, city agility, predictable running costs, and broad parts availability. Skip it if you need modern driver-assistance tech, very low highway noise, or tow capacity beyond 1,500 lb (680 kg). A rust-free car with documented belt, cooling, and fluid services remains one of the safest bets among late-1990s compact SUVs.
References
- Fuel Economy of the 2000 Toyota RAV4 2WD 2025 (Fuel Economy)
- 1998 Toyota RAV4 2025 (Safety Rating)
- Vehicle Detail Search – 2000 TOYOTA RAV4 | NHTSA 2025 (Recall Database)
- 2000 Toyota RAV4 Owner’s Manual 2000 (Owner’s Manual)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or repair. Specifications, capacities, torque values, and service intervals can vary by VIN, year, market, equipment, and running changes. Always verify against your vehicle’s official service documentation, under-hood labels, and the latest manufacturer publications.
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