Do you know anything about Toyota RAV4 Body Side Molding?
When I was in the market for my new TOYOTA RAV4, I spent countless hours researching all the available options and accessories. While interior tech and comfort features were high on my priority list, I also wanted to explore exterior enhancements that could add style and protection to my vehicle. One accessory that caught my eye was the TOYOTA RAV4 body side moldings.
As a meticulous buyer, I deeply understood the pros and cons of these moldings to determine if they were worth the investment.
In this blog post, I’ll share my findings on body side moldings for the RAV4, including the various options available and a step-by-step guide on installing them yourself if you decide to add them after your initial purchase. Whether you’re a current RAV4 owner or a prospective buyer, this in-depth analysis will help you make an informed decision about enhancing the look and safeguarding the sides of your beloved ride.
WHAT IS BODY SIDE MOLDING?
Body side moldings serve a dual purpose as protective shields and style enhancers for your vehicle. While their primary function is to safeguard against minor damages like dings and scratches, they also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of your car. These moldings are practical and add a touch of elegance to vehicles like the RAV4, elevating their visual appeal.
One often overlooked benefit of body side moldings is their ability to prevent rust from developing on your car’s exterior. By acting as a barrier between your vehicle and potential sources of damage, such as rogue shopping carts or careless door swings, these moldings help maintain the integrity of the paint job over time. This added protection layer could save you from costly repairs in the long run, making them a wise investment for both functionality and aesthetics.
BENEFITS OF TOYOTA RAV4 BODY SIDE MOLDINGS
When considering body-side moldings for your vehicle, it’s essential to understand the benefits they offer.
Prevents Damage:
Body-side moldings protect against minor scratches, dings, and dents that can occur during everyday use.
Protects Paint:
By adding an extra layer of protection, body-side moldings help preserve the paint on your vehicle and prevent damage from debris and other environmental factors.
Customization Options:
Whether you match the exterior color or opt for a unique finish like chrome, body-side moldings allow personalization to suit your style preferences.
Easy Installation:
Installing body-side moldings is a straightforward process at home with minimal tools required.
Affordable Option:
Body-side moldings are usually cost-effective compared to other protective accessories, making them an accessible option for vehicle owners looking to safeguard their investment.
Removable:
Should you decide to change or remove the body-side moldings in the future, it can quickly be done without causing any damage to the vehicle’s exterior.
Enhances Aesthetics:
Adding body-side moldings creates a visual break between different body panels, giving your vehicle a more polished and cohesive appearance.
Increases Resale Value:
Vehicles with well-maintained body-side moldings tend to hold higher resale value due to their added protection and aesthetic appeal.
Considering these advantages, you can decide whether body-side moldings are a worthwhile investment for your vehicle.
NOTE:
The key benefits of car side moldings are paint protection and enhanced exterior aesthetics. These moldings are a barrier against damage from other car doors, helping maintain the vehicle’s appearance.
Due to their strategic placement, they can prevent more severe damage in case of an impact. The cost-effective nature of side moldings allows for easy replacement if needed. They add a stylish touch to the door’s design, enhancing its overall look.
AVAILABILITY OF TOYOTA RAV4 BODY SIDE MOLDINGS
Body side molding rav4 is a popular accessory for the 2023 Toyota RAV4 but is not included:
- Adventure
- TRD Off-Road
- Hybrid Woodland Edition trims
It is advisable to check with your dealership for availability of RAV4s with body side moldings, as they may only be standard on some models. Through various channels, you can purchase body-side moldings for RAV4s from 1996 to 2023. Some recommended methods include ordering through Toyota dealerships, browsing online retailers specializing in automotive accessories, or checking out local auto parts stores.
These moldings can help protect your vehicle from dings and scratches while adding a touch of style to its exterior. Consider consulting with experts or referring to installation guides for adequately fitting and placing body-side moldings on your RAV4 model.
WHERE TO BUY
When purchasing body-side moldings for your new Toyota RAV4, a few options are available. You can add an accessory package with body-side moldings through your local dealer, typically costing around $250. One advantage of buying through the dealer is that the cost can be included in your purchase price.
You can find body-side moldings from online sources such as Toyota Parts Center Online or Conicelli Toyota of Conshohocken. These sources offer a variety of colors and prices, with options like Blizzard Pearl for $225 and Magnetic Gray Metallic for $199. Be sure to explore all available options before deciding on where to buy your body-side moldings.
AFTERMARKET OPTIONS
When it comes to enhancing the appearance of your vehicle, aftermarket moldings offer a world of possibilities. These affordable and customizable options allow you to add a personal touch to your ride. Here’s what you need to know:
- Variety Galore: Unlike OEM moldings from Toyota, the aftermarket offers a vast selection from various brands, giving you more choices to suit your style.
- Cost-Effective: Aftermarket moldings often come with a lower price tag, making it easier to personalize your vehicle without breaking the bank.
- Customization Kings: Companies like Dawn Enterprises and ShopSar specialize in customizing moldings to match your car’s exact paint color, ensuring a seamless and cohesive look.
- One-Stop Shop: Reputable retailers like CARiD offer a wide range of aftermarket molding options from different brands, making exploring and comparing your choices convenient.
With so many possibilities at your fingertips, aftermarket moldings allow you to add a unique and personalized touch to your vehicle, reflecting your style and preferences.
INSTALLATION
Adding body side moldings can give your RAV4 a fresh, stylish look. While the installation process may seem daunting, following the instructions carefully is manageable. Here’s what you need to know.
Preparation is Key
Before you dive in, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:
- Tape measure
- Masking tape
- Grease pencil
- Alcohol prep pads
- Soft cloth
- New body side moldings (check that all components are included)
Step-by-Step Installation
Surface Preparation
- Clean the vehicle’s surface thoroughly, removing any dirt and debris.
- Measure the location for the molding, following the instructions provided.
- Mark the measurements on both sides with a grease pencil.
- Use masking tape to create a line between the marks.
- Wipe down the area with alcohol prep pads.
Applying the Moldings
- Apply a thin layer of the recommended adhesive to the area where the molding will be attached.
- Line up the molding with the vehicle to ensure proper placement.
- Peel off the liner from the back of the molding.
- Gently push the molding into place.
- Wipe down the molding with a soft cloth to clean it up.
- Remove any masking tape and protective covering.
- Repeat the process on the other side of your RAV4.
Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish
- Install the moldings on a clear day or inside a garage (avoid rain).
- Ensure the surface temperature of the vehicle and moldings is between 60°F and 90°F.
- Use compressed air if you have trouble cleaning the area thoroughly.
- Avoid touching the cleaned surface with bare hands to prevent contamination.
If you need more clarification about your ability to install the moldings correctly, consider hiring a professional. With patience and attention to detail, you can give your RAV4 a fresh, stylish look that will turn heads on the road.
ALTERNATIVES
If body-side moldings don’t catch your eye, additional external modifications exist. We offer a variety for your consideration, from protective enhancements to purely visual upgrades.
TRIM GUARDS
The importance of trim and edge guards must be balanced when protecting your vehicle from damage. While side moldings offer protection from nicks and scratches on the body, trim guards take it a step further by safeguarding the edges of the trim itself. This added layer of defense prevents scrapes and ensures the longevity of your car’s exterior.
By opting for trim guards that match the color of your vehicle’s body, you can seamlessly integrate them without drawing unnecessary attention. TRIM-LOK stands out as a reliable source for a wide range of high-quality guards that are both durable and easy to install.
RUNNING BOARDS
Installing running boards on the RAV4 adds a touch of style and serves a practical purpose. These accessories play a crucial role in protecting the sides of the SUV from rocks and debris, which can help maintain its exterior in pristine condition. They offer convenience to occupants by providing a more accessible entry and exit point from the vehicle, especially for those with a lifted RAV4.
When considering running boards for your RAV4, OEM boards from a trusted Toyota dealership are highly recommended for quality and price. The genuine parts ensure a perfect fit while maintaining the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal. Whether purchased locally or online, investing in these running boards enhances the visual appeal of your RAV4 and adds functionality that can improve your overall driving experience.
VINYL GRAPHIC DECALS
Vinyl graphic decals offer a fantastic way to personalize your RAV4 without the commitment of a permanent paint job. The beauty of decals lies in their versatility and ease of customization, allowing you to express your unique style effortlessly. While they may come with a slightly higher price tag, the ability to easily transform your vehicle’s look is well worth it.
Professional installation is recommended for a seamless finish, ensuring that the decals look perfect and last longer. Brothers Graphics provides a wide range of options to spark creativity and inspiration for your design ideas.
Conclusion
Protecting your RAV4 from body damage is crucial to maintaining its value and ensuring a higher resale price. While body side moldings are a popular choice for safeguarding your vehicle, other options are also available. You can find the best solution to suit your needs and style preferences by conducting thorough research and exploring different possibilities online. Please don’t wait until it’s too late; take proactive steps now to preserve the condition of your Toyota SUV and maximize its potential resale value.
Muhammad Saeed