2003 Toyota RAV4 AWD package B review from North America

-Right rear control arm had to be replaced after only 42,00 km (3 years) at my cost (very expensive). Toyota refused to fix it under warranty claiming someone may have hit my wheel in a parking. When they (Toyota) realized there was no support to their claim because there was no dent/scratch/damage, they still refused to budge.

-Cruise control was recalled, but because Toyota sent my notice to an old address, despite having my new one on file in excess of 12 months, they refused to address it unless I pay for it. Toyota Canada head office blamed the dealership for the mixup and vice versa. I was unimpressed with their approach/finger pointing.

-Excessively frequent wheel alignment. Toyota said it's normal stating "the higher the vehicle from the ground, the more chance of misalignment". I read this problem was highly reported among Highlander owners.

I have owned this vehicle since new (coming on 4 years) and I am undecided what to do at lease end. I'ma huge car fan and I pamper all my vehicles, synthetic oil, preventative maintenance, all fluid changes exactly when required (even a little before to ensure nothing is neglected). But because I had a reliabilty issue with the rear control arm, I fear there may be other big surprises in the long run. Fuel economy is OK for a vehicle of this size with AWD, but given the rising fuel cost, I may opt for a Civic.