Sell your 1997 Toyota RAV4 for cash
The 1997 Toyota RAV4 is a vehicle that came with a 2.0L 4-cyl engine. At 29 years old, many are reaching the point where repairs cost more than the car is worth. Running or not, we'll make you an offer and tow it away for free.
- Free offer for your 1997 RAV4 in about 30 seconds
- Free towing, running or not
- Paid at pickup
1997 Toyota RAV4 at a glance
| Body style | Special Purpose Vehicles |
|---|---|
| Engines | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Transmissions | Automatic 4-spd, Manual 5-spd |
| Drive | Front-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel | Regular Gasoline |
| Fuel economy | 19–21 city / 24–26 highway / 21–23 combined MPG |
| EPA annual fuel cost | $2,900–$3,200 a year (EPA estimate at current fuel prices, 15,000 miles) |
| Tailpipe CO₂ | 386–423 grams per mile |
| Versions tested by EPA | 4 configurations: RAV4 2WD, RAV4 4WD |
| Age | 29 years |
Specs, fuel cost and emissions from the EPA's fueleconomy.gov data. Your car's exact equipment may differ.
What affects its junk value
- Age: at 29 years old, most of a 1997 RAV4's value comes from reusable parts and scrap metal, not resale.
- Weight: as a vehicle, it weighs less than a truck or SUV, so its value leans more on parts than on scrap weight. See how scrap prices by weight work.
- Catalytic converter: like all gas and diesel cars, it has a catalytic converter containing precious metals, one of the most valuable parts on a junk car. An offer assumes it's still in place. More on catalytic converters.
- Known problems: owners reported the most issues with the engine and engine cooling. If that's what failed on yours, it can still be sold as-is.
1997 Toyota RAV4 recalls
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Toyota RAV4. You can confirm with your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Common 1997 RAV4 problems
Owners have filed 54 complaints about the 1997 Toyota RAV4 with NHTSA. 9 reports involved a crash and 2 reports involved a fire. Owners reported 6 injuries.
Complaints are reports from owners and aren't verified by NHTSA. One complaint can list several components. Mileage is the median odometer reading owners reported for that component.
Most-reported components
Typical mileage when problems were reported
- Power Train168,000 mi
- Vehicle Speed Control119,000 mi
- Structure135,000 mi
1997 Toyota RAV4 service bulletins
Manufacturers have filed 52 technical service bulletins and communications with NHTSA covering the 1997 Toyota RAV4. These are repair instructions for known issues, not recalls.
Most common bulletin topics
Recent bulletins
TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for
TT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions
POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must
Toyota Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications (technical service bulletins).
Selling a 1997 RAV4: questions
How much is a 1997 Toyota RAV4 worth for junk?
It depends on its condition, whether major parts like the engine, transmission and catalytic converter are still there, and current scrap and parts prices where you live. Its parts make up much of its value. Enter your ZIP code above for a free offer on your specific car.
Can I junk a 1997 RAV4 that doesn't run?
Yes. We buy 1997 RAV4s that don't start, were in an accident, failed inspection or have a blown engine or transmission. Towing is always free.
What paperwork do I need to sell my 1997 RAV4?
Usually the title and a photo ID. Rules differ by state, including what to do with your plates and whether to file a notice of sale. Check our state-by-state car title guides for the official forms.
Before you sell
Sources
- EPA fuel economy data (specs and MPG)fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA recallsnhtsa.gov
- NHTSA complaints, service bulletins and investigationsnhtsa.gov
Data retrieved October 2026.
Get cash for your 1997 RAV4 today
Get a free offer in minutes. Towing is always free and you get paid at pickup.