Toyota RAV4 Problems and Common Complaints

With its great maneuverability and gas mileage, it’s no surprise that the Toyota RAV4 is one of the most popular compact crossover SUVs on the market. Many consider it a reliable SUV, but it doesn’t mean that it’s entirely free of faults. Let’s take a look at the most common complaints about the RAV4.

Note: The list of problems below is organized by vehicle generation. Scroll down to find your model range.

2018-Present - Common Problems

A 2018 Toyota RAV4

Drivability Issues: The RAV4 has been a reliable vehicle for a long time. While still basically reliable, the 2019 RAV4 suffers from a drivability issue. When coasting to a low speed, and then accelerating, the SUV will lunge forward enough to startle the driver. Toyota has issued a T-SB addressing the issue, which can be resolved by flashing the ECU with an update.

2013-2017 RAV4 - Common Problems

A 2012 Toyota RAV4

Electric Throttle Control System Malfunction: Many 2013-2016 RAV4 owners reported having experienced unintended acceleration, which is widely believed to be caused by a faulty electric throttle control system.

Navigation Screen Glare: Some RAV4 owners find it difficult to see the navigation screen from the normal driving position in the sunlight due to glare. To be able to see the screen, the driver has to lean to the right and take his eyes off the road for an extended time.

Loud Brakes: Some owners report that front brake pads are making a squeaking or grinding noise when the brakes are applied. In 2016, Toyota issued a TSB and had dealers replace the brake pads and resurface the rotors under warranty.

2005-2012 RAV4 - Common Problems

A 2007 Toyota RAV4 Sport

Clogged Pistons: According to reports, some RAV4s consume an unusual amount of oil between oil changes. This is allegedly a result of an ineffective piston design that - according to reports - can get clogged with oil.

Loose Rear Suspension Arms: In some 2006-2011 RAV4s, the rear tie rod adjusting lock nuts may not be tightened correctly after service, which can lead to thread damage or rust in the suspension arms. This can leads to rear suspension arm failure and loss of vehicle control. In 2012, Toyota recalled all affected RAV4s, replaced the rear suspension arms, and encapsulated the lock nuts for free.

Overheated Driver’s Side Power Window Master Switch: During production, the power window master switch on the driver’s side wasn’t lubricated correctly in some RAV4s. This leads to a short circuit of the switch, which may overheat or even melt the switch. Toyota issued a recall in 2015 and applied more lubricant to the switch. If the switch was already short circuited, then Toyota replaced the entire switch board for free.

Corroded Wiper Linkage Joint: The windshield wiper system is designed in such a way that allows water to get into it and rust out the wiper linkage joint, causing it to separate. As a result, the windshield wiper stops working. In 2015, Toyota recalled nearly 425,000 affected RAV4s and replaced the water diverter channel and wiper linkage at no charge.

Loud Steering Intermediate Shaft Size: The steering column in some RAV4s makes a loud clunking or popping noise when turned. The culprit is the steering intermediate shaft, which has an incorrectly sized internal diameter and swing range. Toyota released a newly designed steering intermediate shaft that, when installed, solves the noise problem.

Ineffective Floor Mat Design: Many RAV4 owners have complained about a sticking accelerator pedal, which is caused by an ineffective all-weather floor mat design. When an accelerator pedal gets trapped in the wide open position, the driver faces an increased risk of a crash. To avoid this situation, removing the driver’s side floor mat is suggested.

2000-2004 RAV4 - Common Problems

A 2002 Toyota RAV4

Clogged Pistons: See 2005-2012 RAV4 – Common Problems.

Failing ECM: The ECM (engine control module) in 2000-2004 RAV4 tends to fail prematurely, causing the transmission to act erratically. Symptoms include loss of power, jerking and hesitating when shifting, and launching on third gear. Replacing the ECM usually solves this problem. If it goes unchecked long enough, the transmission will need to be replaced.

1997-2017 Toyota RAV4 TSBs

To find these TSBs, you can try Googling the TSB ID #, the name of the TSB, or some combination. You can also go to NHTSA.gov and search for the TSB by entering your VIN.