There were 35 reports of gearbox issues made by RAV4 drivers as of December 2021. One customer claimed that after purchasing a 2019 RAV4 with 17,500 kilometers, he frequently experienced issues with the gears changing correctly. When this RAV4 owner brought his vehicle to a Toyota dealership, the problem was fixed with a software update. As vehicles do not become better with time, these kinds of software updates are frequently more of a band aid than a remedy.
Another driver complained that his RAV4 was lurching forward at slower speeds, making the on-ramp to the busy 10 highway unpredictable and perhaps dangerous. Shuttering and shaking were other prevalent concerns. He was informed that his vehicle was functioning as intended and that the dealership could not reproduce the problem.
There were reportedly six recalls for the 2019 RAV4 due to difficulties with the backup camera, separating suspension arms, and coolant leaks, among other things. Surprisingly, there were no transmission-related recalls.
Transmission issues with the 2019 Toyota RAV4 have been extensively reported. The 2020 RAV4 was expected to be an improved model, but there have already been far too many complaints and reports of unhappiness. The 2020 RAV4 has a number of concerns that drivers are having, some of which are listed below:
- Alignment and steering problems
- Transmission that is slow.
- Transmission Leaks
- The fuel gauge occasionally malfunctions and indicates that the tank is empty.
- Sometimes the brakes give out suddenly.
- Unsteady transmission.
No recalls have yet been issued as a result of the 2020 RAV4 transmission issues. But these are the recalls for the 2020 Toyota RAV4 as of April 2021:
- Toyota was compelled to replace the fuel pump assemblies in select 2020 RAVs because the fuel pumps in those vehicles have started to malfunction and create engine issues.
- Select 2020 RAV4s have engine problems and coolant leaks, which led Toyota to conduct a recall and provide some RAV4 owners a free replacement engine and engine block.
- Toyota has decided to replace the power steering gearboxes in a small number of 2020 RAV4s because they have issues with the electric power steering system.
- Toyota is offering to replace the steering columns in select 2020 RAV4s because they may have an influence on the airbags in them.
- Toyota has agreed to replace the front lower suspension arms on some 2020 RAV4s at no cost in order to restore their safety. These arms may have cracks in them.
Several sources claim that a software update that was issued on April 15, 2019, can fix the Toyota RAV4 transmission. However, other owners claimed that even after receiving updates from the Toyota dealership, the transmission issues persisted, and owners had to take their RAV4 to a dealership to get the update.
In This Article...
Is the Toyota RAV4 a trustworthy vehicle?
With a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5, the Toyota RAV4 is ranked third among 26 compact SUVs. It offers great ownership costs with an average annual repair cost of $429.
What year RAV4 ought to be stayed away from?
Avoid the following Toyota RAV4 model years: 2019, 2013, and 20062008. 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.
Which Toyota RAV4 model year is the most dependable?
One of the best pre-owned Toyota RAV4 SUVs is the 2012 model, which is a couple more years old. 2012 is a fantastic year to look for even if the majority of RAV4 years are suggested. The owner satisfaction score was adequate, while the reliability score is high. In its crashworthiness testing this year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) primarily awarded four and five stars.
Speaking of the NHTSA, this year has seen a number of Toyota SUV recalls from the agency. Make sure these recalls have been completed before signing any documentation because two of these recalls concern the airbags. Apart from that, 2012 offered a trustworthy Toyota RAV4 SUV.
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:
- 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.
- Insufficient or tainted transmission fluid
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.
What is the lifespan of a RAV4?
What Is the Toyota Rav4’s Lifespan? With an average lifespan of between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometers and higher numbers for owners who take good care of their Rav4, the Toyota Rav4 is a top SUV in terms of durability.
which is more trustworthy Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR V?
The 2022 Honda CR-V is more dependable than the 2022 Toyota RAV4, which brings us to our third argument in favor of the 2022 Honda CR-V. The capacity to depend on a vehicle is essential for car ownership. It’s crucial to have a dependable car so you can drive with confidence, knowing you’ll never get lost or stuck on the side of the road. Additionally, a dependable vehicle saves time and money because it requires fewer repairs. The CR-V had an overall J.D. reliability rating of 84/100, while the RAV4 received an overall score of 81/100.
Which RAV4 model is the best?
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.
Does the 2021 RAV4 have issues?
Fist Pump Guy, also known as Gary, claims that there is a quick remedy for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 transmission. He asserts that the issue would be fixed by a software update that was made available in April 2019. However, some consumers said that even after obtaining this update from the Toyota dealership, the transmission issues persisted. In order to receive the update, owners must take their RAV4 to a dealership.
Toyota issued a service bulletin for this problem with the NHTSA catalog number T-SB-0107-19. Those with hesitant acceleration from a rolling halt will receive service. The update for the Engine Control Module lessens the possibility of stuttering. Additionally, the Toyota Federal Emission Warranty covers this repair. Nevertheless, the automaker chose not to initiate a recall for this problem despite these suggested solutions.
For the time being, the Toyota RAV4 model years 20202022 have no known transmission issues. However, when those cars log more miles, new issues can surface. It’s encouraging that the transmission issues with the 2019 model year Toyota RAV4 seem to have been resolved in the current generation of cars. There are only three complaints about the 2021 Toyota RAV4 on Car Complaints.
RAV4 stands for what?
Toyota Industries Corporation [1996]. Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel-drive is referred to as a “RAV4”, and the “J” in the abbreviation stands for “joyful.”
RAV4: A reliable secondhand car?
Can you trust a used Toyota RAV4? The Toyota RAV is one of the most dependable and long-lasting cars you can buy in any segment, making it more than just a dependable compact crossover SUV.
What is the most advanced RAV4?
You may get amenities like simulated leather upholstery and a motorized driver’s seat with the XLE Premium trim. The price of this trim option is $29,500.
However, you also have a few package choices for further enhancements with the XLE Premium trim. The XLE Premium Weather Grade Package, which also includes heated front seats and a windshield wiper with rain sensing, is your first choice. You will have to pay $1,075 for this Weather Grade Package.
However, the Entune 3.0 Audio Plus Options Package, which costs $2,885, can be something to take into consideration if you’re searching for an improved infotainment system and a few extra safety features. You will also receive wireless device charging, rear cross-traffic braking, and low-speed collision warning in addition to the improved infotainment system.
The 2019 Toyota RAV4’s top trim level is the Limited. Price for this trim will start at $33,500. You can purchase extras like rear cross-traffic braking, heated front seats, a navigation system, and low-speed collision warning with this car.
The Limited Grade Weather Package and the Limited Grade Advanced Technology Package are available package choices for this trim. You can get heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and vented front seats by purchasing the $1,015 Weather Package. For $1,620, the Technology Package includes a 360-degree parking camera, a JBL audio system, and wireless device charging.
RAV4 LE or XLE: Which is superior?
The XLE trim option, which raises the standard model LE to a whole new level, provides a number of high-quality and practical enhancements for a reasonable price premium. The XLE gives you a more dynamic driving experience as you easily navigate the roughest terrain thanks to its all-wheel drive and sport-tuned suspension. While the fuel economy is unchanged from the LE model, the extras improve the driving experience. The XLE experience includes an eight-way power driver seat, a heated leather steering wheel, dual zone climate control, and a Smart key with push-button start. The XLE pushes the already excellent LE model ahead of the competition by adding features like a motorized sunroof option, projector LED headlights, and black roof rails, to mention a few.