Improving Ride Quality on 2001 RAV4?

Question

The ride comfort on my 2001 Toyota RAV4 has me feeling every bump in the road. What are you best suggestions for improving the ride quality and generally how much would each option cost?

Answer 1

new shocks would be a good start. 150-250

Answer 2

No shocks or struts are not the first starting point. Inspect your tires close. Tires make the whole world when it comes to ride. Check for uneven wear, rub your hands across the tread and see how choppy or cupped it is. Next measure the remaining tread with a tread depth gauge. 5/32Nd's is considered reduced performance, 3/32Nd's the tire is pretty much trash. I would suggest Bridgestone Dueler Alena's. I put those on my Highlander and they are great highway luxury tires with a high mileage warranty.

Answer 3

The most effective way to improve the ride quality of the RAV4 is to trade it in for a Chevy EQUINOX

Answer 4

The RAV has a pretty short wheelbase, so it will be a bit choppy no matter what you do. I am not sure how many miles you have on the RAV now, but a new set of shocks and struts will certainly help.

I would strongly recommend KYB shocks and struts as being the best for your vehicle.

Answer 5

FIRST, get a complete LUBE JOB... You'd be amazed at the difference!
Odds are improving your tires will improve the ride. If you have opted for larger rims (the current trend) with narrow sidewalls, you have sacrificed ride quality. If you don't do a lot of hauling, go with more automotive-grade tires. The higher the sidewall (BIGGER TIRES) mean a smoother ride.
As for shocks...I think yours uses struts. and odds are, they are fine

Answer 6

As people have stated.

Check or change your tires.
Check or Change your shocks.
Check or replace all suspension bushings.
Lube everything up.

That is all.