Rav4 and Harrier: Which is better?

Dear Paul,
I own a Mitsubishi Pajero iO, 2000 model (manual) that I like for its good ground clearance and off-road capabilities. However, I recently changed its fuel filter (located in the tank) with new imported Mitsubishi parts after which it started having some engine start problems. When starting the car, it acts as though it has run out of fuel even if there is sufficient. The low fuel warning light no longer lights even when I expect it to. What could be the problem and will this affect my fuel pumps?
Denis. A

Hello Denis, the Mitsubishi iO fuel filter is located in the fuel tank and attached to the primary fuel pump and fuel gauge assembly. The procedure to replace the fuel filter should be carried out by a skilled technician to avoid damaging or failure to re-assemble the fuel pump and gauge kit. This might explain why your fuel gauge is malfunctioning or the poor ignition. Your Mitsubishi GDi (Gasoline Direct) engine computer can report fault codes if the engine is not running well. I highly recommend a computer diagnosis to establish whether the mass air flow sensor, fuel pump or any other components such as ignition coils have failed.

Dear Paul,
I thank you for the good information you share with us regarding acquisat ion and maintenance of motor vehicles. I want to buy either a Toyota Rav 4( model between 1995 & 1999) or Toyota Harrier (model 1998 or 1999). I am concerned about purchase price, fuel consumption, cost of repairs (availability and cost of spare parts), durability considering our bad roads, and general performance.
Kindly advise on which of these two could be better for me.
Regards, Kitasimbwa C

Hello Kitasimbwa, the practical first generation RAV4 SXA11 (1996-1999) and the more comfortable Toyota Harrier (1997-2001) are very popular used Sports Utility vehicles in Uganda which come with front wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The RAV4 2.0 litre petrol has been here longer, both as a brand new as well as used vehicle from the late 1990s to early 2000s. At the time, the used first generation RAV4 was sold at Shs18m on the road duties paid. Since then, this price has lingered between Shs18m and Shs23m for the 1999 Late Edition RAV4. The first generation Harrier came onto the scene from about 2004 and was sold at about Shs50m. By 2007, the growing availability of the second generation Harrier (2004) lowered the price of the first generation Harrier to about Shs30m for the more popular 2.4 litre 2AZ FE and as low as Shs25m for the 3.0 Litre V6 1MZ FE.
The first generation RAV4’s 2.0 litre 3SFE is a more popular choice for the more pragmatic car buyers because it has better fuel economy (12.5 KM/L), is simpler and easier to maintain or repair anywhere in the country. The simpler straight four 3S FE RAV4 engine has the older multi point electronic fuel injection, high tension ignition leads from distributor demands cheaper and more readily available service or repair parts. All round body and suspension parts are more affordable and can be easily found with the new or used parts vendors as well as the Toyota genuine parts dealers in Uganda.
On the other hand, the more comfortable, roomier and safer Harrier comes with two engines: the 2.4 litre 2AZ FE straight four engine which has better highway fuel economy (11 KM/L) than its counterpart the 3.0 litre V6 1MZFE (10.2 KM/L) and a cheaper and easier engine to service.
Both Harrier engines require a strict maintenance regime with careful selection of quality unleaded fuel to protect the catalytic converters and engine oil which maintains its viscosity and ability to climb up the engine promptly on cold starts while preventing sludge or after burn deposit buildup. This is because of the delicate multi Valve trains which have 4 valves per cylinder (16 or 24 valves) with the Variable Valve timing intelligent (VVTi). These components are easily damaged due to low or delayed oil pressure and engine oil sludge.
On the whole, if your concern for fuel economy and ease of maintenance is paramount, then the first generation RAV4 will be your choice. However, for those motorists who want to drive faster, more comfortably and safely will choose the bigger Harrier and pay the additional price to look after them.

Ask the mechanic
By Paul Kaganzi
0772316145
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