2006 Honda CRV vs 2012 Toyota Rav4 vs 2011 Toyota 4runner
Reliability Side-by-Side
2012
Toyota Rav4
Grade A-
A bulletproof compact SUV that will outlast many newer vehicles with proper care.
2011
Toyota 4runner
Grade A-
A tank-like SUV that will outlast most anything on the road, provided you diligently check for frame rust.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2011 Toyota 4runner
Score 92/100 vs 88/100
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2006 Honda CRV | 2012 Toyota Rav4 | 2011 Toyota 4runner★ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | $400-600 | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | — | $500-1,500 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., water pump, suspension components) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 26 | 22 / 28 | 17 / 22 |
| MSRP (New) | $20,000 | $23,000 | $28,000 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2006 Honda CRV
Engine & drivetrain
Electronics & infotainment
Wear items (brakes, suspension)
Specific failure patterns, mileages, and repair costs unlock with the full reliability report.
2012 Toyota Rav4
Suspension Bushings/Components
80,000-120,000 mi
Rust and Corrosion
70,000+ mi
Water Pump (V6 Engine)
100,000-150,000 mi
2011 Toyota 4runner
Frame Rust and Corrosion
50,000-150,000 mi
Water Pump
80,000-130,000 mi
Front Suspension Components
70,000-110,000 mi
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Editorial Take
These three SUVs, despite varying in age and segment, often appear on the shopping lists of individuals seeking a practical, reliable, and versatile vehicle. The 2006 Honda CR-V represents a compact, economical choice for urban or suburban living. The 2012 Toyota RAV4 offers a slightly larger, more contemporary compact SUV experience with a compelling optional V6 engine. The 2011 Toyota 4Runner, in contrast, is a mid-size, body-on-frame SUV built for ruggedness and serious off-road capability. Key decision factors when considering these vehicles include fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, potential for off-road adventure, and overall driving dynamics, catering to buyers from first-time SUV owners to outdoor enthusiasts. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2006 HONDA CR-V 1. AC Compressor Failure: A notable issue for this generation of CR-V is the premature failure of the air conditioning compressor, sometimes leading to metal shavings contaminating the entire AC system, requiring costly repairs. This often manifests between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. 2. Rear Differential Noise: Owners may experience a groaning or binding noise from the rear differential during slow turns, especially between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. This is typically resolved by draining and refilling the differential with the correct Honda Dual Pump Fluid II. 3. Power Window Regulators: Some CR-Vs from this era have reported issues with power window motors or regulators failing, leading to inoperable windows, usually after 100,000 miles. 2012 TOYOTA RAV4 1. Water Pump Leaks: While not universal, some RAV4 V6 models, particularly those approaching or exceeding 100,000 miles, have been known to develop coolant leaks from the water pump. This can lead to overheating if not addressed. 2. Minor Steering Clunk: A relatively common, though generally minor, complaint is a subtle clunking or knocking sound from the steering column, often noticeable when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. It is usually related to the intermediate steering shaft and is more of an annoyance than a safety concern. 3. Vibrations at Idle: Some 4-cylinder RAV4 owners have reported mild vibrations noticeable in the cabin when the vehicle is idling, though this is often within normal operating parameters and rarely indicates a serious mechanical fault. 2011 TOYOTA 4
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2006 CR-V was the most affordable, followed by the RAV4, and then the significantly pricier 4Runner. In the used market today, this hierarchy generally holds true, though the 4Runner maintains its value remarkably well. A well-maintained 2011 4Runner can often command prices similar to or even higher than a newer, well-equipped 2012 RAV4, showcasing its exceptional resale value. The 2006 CR-V is typically the most budget-friendly option in the used market. Insurance costs for the CR-V and RAV4 are generally lower due to their popularity as family vehicles and lower overall repair costs compared to a more specialized SUV like the 4Runner. The 4Runner might see slightly higher premiums due to its higher initial value, more specialized parts, and appeal to a demographic that might engage in more adventurous driving. Maintenance costs for all three are generally low, thanks to Toyota and Honda's reputations for reliability and widespread availability of parts and mechanics. Routine servicing will be comparable, though the 4Runner might incur higher costs for tires due to its larger size and off-road-capable options. Fuel costs will be highest for the 4Runner due to its lower MPG, followed by the RAV4 V6, then the RAV4 4-cylinder, and finally the CR-V as the most fuel-efficient. Resale value is a strong suit for all three, but the Toyota 4Runner is arguably in a league of its own, often experiencing minimal depreciation relative to other SUVs. The Toyota RAV4 also holds its value exceptionally well, especially V6 models. The Honda CR-V maintains good resale value, though not quite at the level of the Toyotas, partly due to its older model year in this comparison.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2006 Honda CRV
Products for 2012 Toyota Rav4
Products for 2011 Toyota 4runner
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