I have just ordered a new V6 Rav 4 base model. Of course, I got the usual speal from the business manager about buying Toyota's Extended Warranty and rustproofing. In Cdn $ the former would extend the 3 yr warranty on all items to 7 yrs. for $2200 and the rustproofing to life of the car for $595 for any perforation. I declined, but now wonder about the value of this offer for someone who puts only about 10,000 km. (6250 mi.) per yr. What think you? (1 $C = .87 $US)
So called "extended warranties" are actually insurance policies and are referred to as extended service contracts. Extended service contracts are rarely worth the expense. If you wish to purchase one, the most reliable one is Toyota Extra Care.
Toyota does not recommend any aftermarket rustproofing and may actually void the factory rust perforation warranty. I have looked at a lot of vehicles that have had aftermarket rustproofing, and none that I saw in the U.S. were worth the expense and some actually aggravated rust because the installer drilled body panels to get at interior cavities and rust formed where the holes were drilled.
That said, some knowledgeable regulars in this group speak highly of Kronos and Rust Check, both of which are sold in Canada but not in the U.S. If you are going to install some kind of rustproofing, I recommend stuff that is drippy and needs to be re-installed every year. The tar-like stuff tends to trap moisture and promote rust.
As far as paint treatment and interior upholstery protection, you can wax the car and spray Scotch-Guard yourself for a lot less money.
there is a guy there that sells the toyota extra care for the 4runners for $600 or so... and i bet even less for rav
4s... do a search there.. thats where i got mine...
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