How can I tell if a Toyota RAV4 has four-wheel drive?

Hi. I'm looking at buying a 2002 Toyota RAV4 2.0-litre petrol. How would I know if it's a 2wd or a 4wd? Thanks!

Mark Kelly (Cork City)

Sep 2013 Filed under: miscellaneous

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Expert answer

Hi Mark,

The simplest and most sure way is to take a look underneath. Only the four-wheel drive RAV4 has a solid-looking metal tube running from the gearbox at the front to the rear axle, running alongside the exhaust. Also, there are distinct driveshafts to the rear wheels with rubber 'boots' on either end. The two-wheel drive car doesn't have any of that.

Hope that makes your life easier.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D