The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling SUVs in Canada. Reliable, practical, great in winter. But there's one area where it falls short: the headlights. We restore a lot of them, especially the 2013-2019 models. If you've got a RAV4 with headlights that are starting to look rough, you're definitely not alone.
Why RAV4 Headlights Take a Beating
The RAV4 has large headlights with plenty of exposed surface area. Since it sits taller than a sedan, the front end takes the brunt of wind, road debris, and salt spray right in the headlights. The 2013-2018 generation (4th gen) is especially common in our appointments. After 7-8 years in Quebec, the headlights are usually pretty yellowed.
We go into more detail in our article on SUV headlights vs sedan headlights. The factors are the same: exposed surface, height, and Quebec's tough conditions.
Replacement vs Restoration on a RAV4
Replacing both headlights on a RAV4 doesn't come cheap. OEM Toyota parts are pricey. You're looking at $400-700 per headlight easily. Add labour and you're at $1,000-1,600 for the pair. That's a lot of money for headlights that are going to yellow again in a few years.
Restoration costs a fraction of that and the results look just as good. With a ceramic coating, you're good for 2-3 years. We break down the cost comparison in our article on headlight restoration vs replacement.
The Results
RAV4 headlights respond really well to restoration. Toyota's polycarbonate is generally solid quality and the oxidation stays on the surface even after years of wear. After treatment, the difference is obvious. Your RAV4 looks like it just aged backward by 5 years just from clearing up the headlights.
If you're thinking about selling your RAV4, this is one of the best investments you can make. Used SUV buyers spot yellowed headlights right away. Clear headlights completely change that first impression.
Got a RAV4 with cloudy headlights? Book an appointment at pharesautomobile.ca. We come to you in Montreal and the South Shore.
