Common Problems of Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is generally known for its reliability and popularity as a compact SUV. However, there are a few common problems that some owners have reported. Here are some of the issues that have been mentioned:
1. Slipping Gears and Whining Noise: Some RAV4 owners have complained about slipping gears and a slight whining noise coming from the gearbox. While this problem doesn’t affect the safety of the vehicle, it can be a cosmetic concern. Toyota has expanded the warranty to cover more mileage to address this issue.
2. Cylinder Head Gasket Failure: Owners of RAV4s made since 2004 have reported cylinder head gasket failure. This problem is caused by over-torqued bolts combined with extreme heat. The best solution is to find a replacement cylinder head gasket and have it fitted.
3. Battery Fires: The 2013-2018 RAV4 models are being investigated for a potential battery defect that can cause the SUV to lose all electrical power and, in some cases, start an engine compartment fire. This issue has resulted in several fire incidents. Toyota is addressing this problem through investigations and recalls.
4. Paint Peeling: Some RAV4s, particularly those painted with Toyota’s Blizzard Pearl or Super White paint, have experienced paint peeling issues. This is caused by poor adhesion between the paint primer coat and the car’s metal.
5. Evaporative System Issue: A common problem reported by RAV4 owners is a faulty evaporative system (EVAP) vapor canister. This can cause the Check Engine light to illuminate, and the issue is typically resolved by replacing the entire vapor canister, including the vent valves.
6. Interior Problems: While more of a cosmetic or comfort issue, some RAV4 drivers have reported interior problems. These issues may include issues with the seats, dashboard, or other interior components.
It’s important to note that these problems are not widespread and may not affect all RAV4 vehicles. Toyota has been addressing these issues through investigations, recalls, and warranty extensions to ensure customer satisfaction and safety.
Please keep in mind that this information is based on reported problems and may not reflect the experience of every RAV4 owner.
Contents
- How many miles is too many for a used RAV4?
- Which year RAV4 is most reliable?
- What years are good bad for RAV4?
- How many miles would a Toyota RAV4 last?
- Do Toyota RAV4 have engine problems?
- What is the major problem of Toyota RAV4?
- What year Toyota RAV4 has transmission problems?
- What is the lawsuit against the Toyota RAV4?
- Is Toyota RAV4 a good buy?
- What year used RAV4 is best?
How many miles is too many for a used RAV4?
Although it’s tricky to tell how well a used RAV4 was taken care of under previous ownership, most of the time it’s perfectly safe to invest in a used Toyota RAV4 with more than 100,000 miles. They will make it over 200,000, so purchasing a newer car on the lower end of the 100,000-mile spectrum will serve you well.
Which year RAV4 is most reliable?
The following models were sorted from lowest to highest, according to their J.D. Power scores.
- 8 2009 Toyota RAV4: 83/100.
- 7 2011 Toyota RAV4: 84/100.
- 6 2008 Toyota RAV4: 86/100.
- 5 2013 Toyota RAV4: 86/100.
- 4 2016 Toyota RAV4: 86/100.
- 3 2017 Toyota RAV4: 87/100.
- 2 2010 Toyota RAV4: 88/100.
- 1 2018 Toyota RAV4: 88/100.
What years are good bad for RAV4?
Toyota RAV4 Generations
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd generation | 2001 2004 2005 | 2002 2003 |
| 3rd generation | 2009 2010 | 2006 2007 |
| 4th generation | 2013 2015 2016 2017 2018 | 2014 |
| 5th generation | 2022 2023 | 2019 2020 2021 |
How many miles would a Toyota RAV4 last?
Models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can easily exceed 200,000 miles with the right maintenance. Toyota even has Toyota Crossover SUVs.
Do Toyota RAV4 have engine problems?
Toyota RAV4 Reliability Problems. RAV4 owners have made 2,362 complaints over 27 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we’ve ranked it second to last in overall reliaibility , with significant transmission and engine concerns.
What is the major problem of Toyota RAV4?
The RAV4’s issues include excessive oil consumption, steering wheel problems, lagging transmissions, fuel system problems, and electrical complications, among other troubles. Here, you’ll see which RAV4 model years frequently experience what issues and what might cause them.
What year Toyota RAV4 has transmission problems?
2001-2003 RAV4s struggled with mostly transmission problems. With over 500 complaints total, up from 60 of the previous generation, 60% of those complaints were transmission-related.
What is the lawsuit against the Toyota RAV4?
A new Toyota class action lawsuit alleges the automaker failed to disclose that its model year 2014-2021 Toyota RAV4s have a defective power liftgate.
Is Toyota RAV4 a good buy?
The RAV4 is responsive in corners, and it remains under control even when pushed. The ride, however, is somewhat stiff, and the noisy engine hurts the driving experience. Most controls, such as the large climate knobs, are easy to use. BSW and RCTW are standard on all except the base trim.
What year used RAV4 is best?
But. If you want a new one I would recommend getting either the hybrid or the RAV4 Prime which is a plug-in hybrid. The new plug-in hybrid is so good I’m officially crowning it the greatest RAV4.
