The RAV4 has a 176-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that is mated to a 6-speed automated transmission across the board. A flexible lockup torque-converter in the transmission allows for increased efficiency, especially at slower speeds.
In This Article...
What model year Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a CVT?
For this generation, the RAV4 is a little more conventional than it was for the last.
Even though the car was a little bit longer than previously, the V6 and third-row seats were gone. But to improve fuel efficiency, a four-cylinder and continuously variable gearbox combination became common. A liftgate was also introduced, and the spare tire was positioned underneath the cargo floor, a design strategy that other compact SUVs had been employing for years.
Toyota updated the RAV4 for the 2016 model year in 2015. It simplified the outside style, improved interior refinement by adding extra soundproofing, and introduced a number of other amenities.
Even though it wasn’t mechanically different from the conventional models, the 2017 lineup was finally expanded to include a tough-looking Adventure model.
Do Toyota RAV4s have issues with the transmission?
A few instances of transmission issues with the 2020 Toyota RAV4 have surfaced. A stuttering transmission, one that is delayed and then lurches ahead, and a leaky transmission are examples of these issues.
Although the above-mentioned Toyota RAV4 starting issues may be the subject of numerous articles, it’s crucial to remember that this problem is not yet widely reported. This is undoubtedly something to consider if you’re looking into small SUVs, but it’s also feasible that you won’t completely discount the RAV4 because of it.
Toyota CVT
The Toyota CVT transmission is marketed as the greatest option for both performance and fuel economy. The most effective elements of the traditional transmission and CVT are combined in Toyota’s Direct Shift CVT.
The Direct Shift-CVT uses a standard transmission’s initial gear to assist the car accelerate more quickly. The transmission switches to a CVT mode once the vehicle reaches the speed where a CVT is preferable. The following are the Direct Shift-top CVT’s advantages:
- increased belt effectiveness
- amazing shift speed
- an increase in fuel economy of 6%
- Ratio spread has increased by 15%
- a small belt angle
The following Toyota models have a regular CVT (not a Direct Shift CVT):
- Honda C-HR
- Subaru Prius
- Corolla, Toyota
- Honda Accord
- Honda CR-V
Toyota is frequently praised for its dependability. They have experienced recalls even though this is generally the case. The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback was subject to one of the largest recalls because the CVT’s torque converters were prone to breaking.
Honda CVT
The Honda CVT has a special feature called Honda Control. The auto identifies “sporty driving” (i.e., driving down a curving road) and will keep the engine running at a higher speed. The vehicle enhances the smoothness of the ride during acceleration and deceleration by keeping a greater engine speed.
The Honda CVT offers the following key advantages:
- increased fuel efficiency
- Honda Management
- smoother gear shifts for a more comfortable ride
Numerous Honda models come with CVTs, such as:
- Honda Accord
- Subaru Insight
- Subaru Fit
- Honda Civic
Honda recalled a significant number of CVT transmissions. The 2014 and 2015 Honda Civic was subject to one recall because of a software problem with the transmission. Drive shaft pulleys broke as a result of pressure the program put on the CVT pulley. In addition, Honda is being sued for CVT transmission issues with the 2016–2018 Honda Civic, where the car claims to be in park when it is not.
Can I buy a 2016 Toyota RAV4 with a CVT?
The same 2.5-liter engine is used in the RAV4 Hybrid together with two electric motors—one driving the front wheels and the other the back—and a CVT transmission.
RAV4 is automatic or CVT.
The RAV4 has a 176-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that is mated to a 6-speed automated transmission across the board.
Which Toyota RAV4 model year is the most dependable?
Here is a succinct explanation of the Toyota RAV4’s best and worst years: The 2009, 2010, 2016, 2017, and 2018 model years of the Toyota RAV4 are some of its best iterations. On the other hand, the 2002, 2007, 2008, 2013, and 2019 models should be avoided.
Which Toyota RAV4 model years ought to be avoided?
Avoid the following Toyota RAV4 model years: 2019, 2013, and 2006–2008. They are the ones with the most well-known issues, but keep in mind that they are Toyotas, which are renowned for their dependability. By purchasing one in decent condition, the tiny problems they have won’t put you in the poor house. Finding a well-kept Toyota RAV4 with reasonable mileage is the best course of action when looking for one. Like any car, as it ages, issues can arise, but serious issues can be prevented by doing your research when purchase.
How long does the transmission on a Toyota RAV4 last?
If you treat your Toyota RAV4 well, it will last the longest. For advice on when to undertake specific maintenance procedures, consult your RAV4 owner’s manual. After 30,000 to 60,000 miles, your RAV4’s brakes will probably need to be replaced. Although they should be rotated every 5,000 miles, tires will last 40,000 to 60,000 miles. The transmission should last at least 120,000 miles with proper maintenance. Additionally, spark plugs have a 100,000-mile lifespan.
The RAV4 may also receive an anti-rust treatment. You can choose to occasionally spray oil onto the RAV4 yourself or hire a professional to do it. Regular washing is a simple method to maintain your RAV4. This helps get rid of any salt that can lead to rust and corrosion. Last but not least, keep an eye on your RAV4 to make sure you hear any strange noises or see any unusual leaks so you can get these potential issues looked out and fixed. Your Toyota RAV4 should last for many years and many miles if you take proper care of it.
Transmission Gear Slipping Issues
Numerous RAV4 owners have also voiced issues with the transmission slipping gears suddenly.
Numerous lawsuits have been filed in response to this, forcing the manufacturer to admit there is a problem. The warranty on this issue has also been extended by Toyota to 10 years/150,000 miles.
Transmission Solenoid Issues
Many RAV4 customers have voiced their complaints with the check engine light randomly coming on while driving. Along with it, the car may occasionally stall.
Our investigation revealed that a defective solenoid that requires prompt repair frequently causes this issue.
Unpleasant Transmission Noise
Numerous RAV4 owners have also voiced their displeasure with an unpleasant grinding sound that occasionally occurs during acceleration or deceleration.
Others said that this occurs as soon as the car is put in reverse or when going from 4WD to FWD.
Possible Causes and Solutions
Causes and remedies for some of the aforementioned gearbox and powertrain problems are provided below:
- Insufficient or tainted transmission fluid
- Faulty needle roller bearings: Needle bearings are essential parts that prevent the torque converter’s gears from needlessly grinding. Your Toyota RAV4 may start to make grinding noises if the needle bearings start to fail.
Both manual and automatic gearbox vehicles require enough and pristine transmission fluid to function.
Your gearbox could overheat if there isn’t enough clean transmission fluid, which could cause your gears to start slipping or surging out of control.
Transmission fluid filter that is clogged:
The gearbox fluid filter in the Toyota RAV4 is in charge of allowing just the proper amount of clean fluid to pass. Its performance will be hampered by a clogged filter, which will eventually cause the transmission to fail.
What to Do
When treated improperly, transmission problems can render your car utterly worthless. As a result, we suggest that you take your car to a reputable mechanic for an examination, diagnosis, and fix.
If your warranty still has a few miles or years left, you might also try getting in touch with your dealer.
Toyota switched to CVT transmissions in what year?
K110. Production of the K110, Toyota’s first belt-type CVT, started in August 2000. According to Toyota, the transmission provided excellent driving performance while also being fuel-efficient.
Is CVT a superior option than an automatic transmission?
Benefits of CVT When compared to a conventional automatic, a CVT may offer a smoother driving experience depending on the car and the driver. One of the biggest benefits of having a CVT, according to Carfax, is that they frequently use less fuel than a standard automatic.
Which Toyota model does not have a CVT?
Toyota does not provide CVTs in the 86, Avalon (non-hybrid), Mirai, Supra, 4Runner, Highlander, Camry (non-hybrid), Corolla (manual only), Yaris, Land Cruiser, rav4 (non-hybrid), Tacoma, and Tundra.
Toyota CVT dependability
Because of the smoothness they offer in urban areas and because Toyota and other manufacturers of hybrid vehicles favor CVTs, they are widely used.
On the other hand, CVT gears often offer excellent fuel efficiency and are extremely dependable. They are currently providing strong acceleration when you wish to pull away. Toyota offers the CVT in a number of different models, including the ones listed below. To find out if they have the characteristics you seek, click through!
Conclusion
Hopefully you now know what a CVT transmission is! Naturally, while buying a car, the reliability of the CVT transmission might play a significant role in your decision.
Even Toyota’s current lineup has several vehicles with CVT transmissions, including the Corolla and C-HR! Do you already drive a car with a CVT or have you ever considered getting one? Tell us if you drive a car with a CVT transmission or not by leaving a comment below!
A CVT is a Toyota RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 features a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, but the Subaru Outback has a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Which SUV is lacking a CVT?
I adore the new Ford Bronco; not only does this retro-futuristic SUV look fantastic, but it also drives incredibly well!
With a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Ford Bronco is significantly more dependable and suitable for off-roading than if it had a CVT.
They might not be able to manage the power of a stronger engine, though, and they might be less resilient. The 10-speed automatic transmission in the Bronco is made to be more reliable and effective.
It has a greater range of gears as well, which might be advantageous when hauling a hefty load or climbing hills. Although a 10-speed automatic transmission may not be as efficient as a CVT, it will perform more effectively and with more reliability.
How does CVT work?
Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT, functions similarly to a conventional automatic transmission. Germain Honda of Ann Arbor has put together this comprehensive comparison to help dispel any misunderstandings about the basic differences between a standard automatic transmission and a CVT.
Is Toyota ceasing production of the RAV4?
Despite the discontinuation of the Toyota RAV4 EV in 2014, Toyota is still committed to the electrification of automobiles. The future is bright because even though we’ve ceased making the RAV4 EV, our engineers are still hard at work on the next iteration of battery technology. Additionally, your Authorized Toyota RAV4 EV Dealer will continue to provide excellent servicing if you already own a RAV4 EV.