Toyota Rav4 problems
The Toyota RAV4 (Japanese: トヨタ・RAV4, Hepburn: Toyota Ravufō) is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It is known for starting the wave of compact crossovers.
It made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994, and in North America in 1995, being launched in January 1996. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the manoeuvrability and fuel economy of a compact car. The vehicle's name is an abbreviation of "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", or "Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", although not all models come equipped with the four-wheel drive system.
For the third-generation model, Toyota offered both short- and long-wheelbase versions of the RAV4. Short-wheelbase versions were sold in Japan and Europe; long-wheelbase versions in Australia and North America. Toyota of Japan also sold the longer-wheelbase version as the Toyota Vanguard (Japanese: トヨタ・ヴァンガード, Hepburn: Toyota Vangādo) at Toyopet Store dealership chain from 2005 through 2016. RAV4 for the Japanese market were sold at two different Toyota dealership chains, Corolla Store and Netz.
In 2019, the RAV4 was the best-selling SUV of any type in the world, and the fourth best-selling passenger car overall. North America is the largest market, with 535,000 units sold in 2019, followed by Europe (133,000) and China (127,000). By February 2020, a total of 10 million RAV4s had been sold globally.
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Toyota Rav4 model years
Common Toyota Rav4 problems
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular and reliable compact SUV, but like all vehicles, it has some common problems reported by owners. Here are the most common issues with the Toyota RAV4, based on data from real owners and various sources:
- Evaporative System Issue: One of the most common problems with the Toyota RAV4 is a faulty evaporative system (EVAP) vapor canister. This issue can result in the Check Engine light illuminating, which typically requires replacing the entire vapor canister, including the vent valves. This problem is known to affect up to the 2016 models and can be an expensive fix.
- Catalytic Converter Software Issue: Previously, there was a software issue that would incorrectly report an issue with the catalytic converter when there actually wasn't one. This issue affected older models, but Toyota released a software update to correct it, so it should no longer be an issue.
- Oxygen Sensor Failure: Another common problem is the failure of oxygen sensors, which can cause the Check Engine light to turn on. This issue can be costly to fix, as some owners have reported replacing one sensor only to have to replace another one shortly after. This problem is known to affect models up to 2014.
- Transmission Issues: There have been a handful of reports of transmission problems with the 2020 Toyota RAV4, including stumbling transmissions, delayed acceleration, and leaky transmissions. While not a widespread issue, it's something to be aware of if you're considering a 2020 model.
- Steering Wheel Issues: Some RAV4 owners have reported strange noises coming from the steering rack, such as clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at full lock. In more serious cases, some people reported the steering wheel failing altogether.
- Water Pump Failure: Failure in the water pump on the RAV4 has been reported by drivers, usually accompanied by loud noises coming from the engine. This issue requires replacing the water pump to avoid larger problems.
- Gearbox Issues: Slipping gears and a slight whining noise coming from the gearbox are two common RAV4 complaints. Toyota has tried to address this issue by expanding the warranty to cover more mileage.
- Navigation/Audio Apparatus Installation: Some RAV4 owners have found fault with the way the navigation/audio apparatus has been installed, with the position of the screen being less than user-friendly due to sunlight glare.
- Engine Light Coming On: RAV4 owners have reported that their 'check engine' light comes on during drives, typically at lower speeds. This issue is hard to diagnose and could be due to a number of factors, but it's always advised to get your vehicle checked out to be on the safe side.
It's important to note that the Toyota RAV4 has an excellent reputation in terms of reliability, with a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, according to RepairPal. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of potential issues when considering purchasing a vehicle, especially when buying a used model.
What is the common problem with Toyota RAV4?
But with more used RAV4s in the market — some with hundreds of thousands of miles on the odometer — some of these hiccups will be unavoidable. The RAV4's issues include excessive oil consumption, steering wheel problems, lagging transmissions, fuel system problems, and electrical complications, among other troubles.
What are the best years of a Toyota RAV4?
Best Toyota RAV4 SUVs to Buy Used
- 2016 Toyota RAV4. First, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 was one of the most popular model years, making it one of the best ever made. ...
- 2010 Toyota RAV4. ...
- 2017 Toyota RAV4. ...
- 2018 Toyota RAV4. ...
- 2009 Toyota RAV4.
Is Toyota RAV4 a reliable car?
Among all of our new Toyota vehicles for sale, the Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most reliable options on the market. The Toyota RAV4 also offers impressive engine specs, versatile capability, and warranty coverage that can help you tackle repairs down the road.
What is the weakness of the RAV4?
Infotainment is undoubtedly the RAV4's biggest weakness. The first problem is the hardware – the 10.25in screen can be slow to respond compared with those of rivals, which can make it tricky to use on the move. Plus, Toyota's software isn't the easiest to get along with.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Rav4 years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Rav4 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Rav4 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Rav4 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Rav4 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Rav4 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Rav4 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Rav4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rav4 model years
A total of 731 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rav4 model years
There were a total of 261 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rav4 model years
There were a total of 516 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Rav4 model years
There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 8277 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Rav4 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Rav4 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Rav4 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 2T3P1RFV5NW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that she had heard an abnormal noise from the driver's side rear door. The contact stated that the sound was a "sloshing" sound of water. The contact stated that when she had parked the vehicle on a road with an upgrade with the front of the vehicle facing up, she observed that water was leaking out from the bottom of the door. The contact stated that when it had rained, the noise and water leak was more noticeable. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 26,000.
Toyota Rav4 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 2T3A1RFV4KW
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My coolant bypass valve gave out and Toyota is insisting it’s not covered under warranty my 10 year warranty. Toyota knew there was a defect and didn’t tell consumers.
Toyota Rav4 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2T3P1RFVXMW
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The front passenger seat is unusable as the OCS sensor has turned off the airbags for that seat. Every time the car is started, or begins driving after sitting idle for a couple of minutes, it will beep and alarm constantly for several minutes, warning me of the passenger airbag. It is a serous distraction, and now prevents me from transporting a passenger. This has been going on since June 2024, and dealer refuses to look at car due to recall. I was even willing to pay myself to make the repair. No one will touch it. The remedy was originally set for the summer time, then end of 3rd quarter 2024. Now, it’s almost a month after the end of the 3rd quarter. Thank you for your time in reviewing this.
Toyota Rav4 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2T3WFREV8EW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The entire computer screen is stuck on the downloading picture. Then it will restart itself and do it all over again. Nothing works. No radio or anything. I’ve been looking online and seeing there is a lot of people with the same issues a but no solutions. How has Toyota not fixed this issue yet.
Toyota Rav4 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 4T3E6RFV4RU
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: - Passenger side rear tire failed - Tire is at dealer and available for inspection - Extremely dangerous situation, tire failed on a section of interstate highway under construction. Only 2 lanes available and they were narrower than normal width. Part of the shoulder was converted to driving lane so almost no shoulder to pull off on. The incident happened on a Sunday afternoon and interstate was extremely busy with weekend traffic. My wife was extremely lucky not to be involved in a serious accident. - Tire has not been inspected by anyone other than the car dealer - If the tire pressure warning light came on it wasn't noticed. There were no symptoms or warnings prior to the failure.
Toyota Rav4 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: JTMBD31V675
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Subframe rusted in half, the only way I found it was when we put new shocks on it. It peeled off about 1/2 the tread on a brand new tire. Dangerous, if passengers side rear tire would've broke loose it would throw rear of car into oncoming traffic!
Toyota Rav4 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: See Attached Letter
Toyota Rav4 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 4T3E6RFV4RU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: After parking car in driveway, a puddle of fuel is left directly under fuel tank. Girlfriend thought it was ac condensation. I stuck my finger in puddle and smelled the gasoline. Girlfriend is taking car to dealer.
Toyota Rav4 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 2T3WFREV9DW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2013 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact attempted to start the vehicle; and noticed that the vehicle would completely shut off with no warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that the 12-volt battery was inoperable. The contact noticed that the battery was loose. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 191,264. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Rav4 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: JTMZFREV3FD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Rav4 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 2T3F1RFV8MC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Rav4 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 2T3A1RFVXLW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? THE HINGES ARE BROKEN ON THE HATCH How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? MY SAFETY AS WELL AS OTHERS IS PUT AT RISK BECAUSE THE HINGE IS BROKEN. THE HATCH WILL NOT CLOSE THEREFOR COULD FLY OFF WHILE DRIVING Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? THE ISSUE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALERSHIP BUT THEY FOUND NO PROBLEM, ANOTHER APPOINTMENT SCHEDULED TUESDAY10/22 Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO This is not a rare issue. I have seen dozens upon dozens of articles on Google, Facebook and Reddit of others dealing with the same exact issue. Examples: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Toyota Rav4 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 2T3P1RFV1KC
- Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: I was stopped at a red light. When the light turned green and I pressed the gas, the engine sputtered and almost shut off. Just before I came to a stop, the engine revved up and the vehicle accelerated. The uneven acceleration is concerning. I recently replaced the gas cap and serviced the fuel system, which leads me to believe there is a defect with the engine. Later in the day, the check engine light went on and AWD system, cruise control, and lane assist were disabled.
Toyota Rav4 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 2T3P1RFV1KC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: A distracting message “a connected device is not supported” flashes on my console screen every 10 seconds. This occurs when there are no device or cable connected. It blocks the clock and driving directions if I am projecting them through CarPlay. The SOS emergency system lights flash back and forth from red to green.
Toyota Rav4 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: JTMBFREV6HJ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: i have a 2017 rav4 with less than 60k miles and the factory back up camera stopped working
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Rav4
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 141 recalls for different components of the Toyota Rav4.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Rav4 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Toyota Rav4 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Toyota Rav4 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-01
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
- Consequence: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risks were mailed December 8, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated by December 2024. Remedy is planned to launch to dealers by November 1, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
- Model: Toyota Rav4 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-01
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
- Consequence: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risks were mailed December 8, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated by December 2024. Remedy is planned to launch to dealers by November 1, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
- Model: Toyota Rav4 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-01
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
- Consequence: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risks were mailed December 8, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated by December 2024. Remedy is planned to launch to dealers by November 1, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
Latest negative Toyota Rav4 car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Rav4 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2016
Let me start by saying that I had a great experience driving this car, but I do have one complaint. When driving on snow and ice, the car can be slow to respond when you press the gas pedal, which can be frustrating when you're trying to get going at an intersection. However, once the car gets going, it performs well. We put 2220 miles on the car in a week and got about 24 mpg running at 75 mph. The car was easy to drive, even in crosswinds, and I was impressed by how quiet the cabin remained at high speeds. The interior is roomy and comfortable, and the telescopic adjustment steering was a nice touch. The dashboard controls were good, although I did miss having a compass. The spare tire was full size and easy to access, and five adults fit comfortably in the car. Overall, I would give this car a solid B+.
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Vehicle year: 1997
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 1997 car that I bought back in 1999 with low mileage. It has been an absolute joy to own! I spend a lot of time in it and it has always been super reliable. It has safely transported my kids, their friends, and even my grandkids in comfort and safety. I have looked at newer models, but to be honest, I just don't like them. They're too big and have too much wasted interior space, like the dashboard being too deep and too busy. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 2013
Your 2013 Rav 4 Limited sounds like the perfect car for buzzing around town and taking short trips. It's easy to maintain and very roomy inside, which is great for carrying lots of stuff between our two houses and our two small dogs. The only downside is that the passenger seat lacks lumbar support, which can be tough on passengers with bad backs. Unfortunately, Toyota doesn't seem to prioritize this feature for passengers. My wife primarily uses the car and loves it, and we would definitely buy another one. We recently traded it for a 2019 Lexus NX, which is the same size and we received a great trade-in value of $19,000. During the 8 years we had the Rav, we replaced the tires, brakes, and shocks, which speaks to the great investment and quality of the car.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I bought a 2009 RAV4 4 2.5 litre 4 cylinder, base model, for my wife. Let me tell you, the ride comfort is amazing! The independent suspension decreases body roll over uneven pavement, and it absorbs bumps in the road like they were nothing. Road noise for a vehicle of this size is more than acceptable, and wind noise is average but better than most. Braking is smooth and quiet, and acceleration is excellent. I barely have to apply pressure to the throttle to get it to move. Without even having to stomp down on the pedal, the 4 cylinder turns into a monster and easily pulls away. Overall, it's a great car!
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Vehicle year: 2004
This is the best vehicle I've owned hands down. After owning Jeep, Dodge, and Ford vehicles, I opted for this Rav4 and couldn't be happier. It handles well and after careful examination of the engine components, it is clearly better built than Jeep Liberty. Plus, the Rav isn't nearly as thirsty at the pump as the Liberty.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Rav4?
Ewald Murray 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 2006
This vehicle has had several warranty repairs, including the rear shock absorbers, water pump, and steering shaft. However, it is important to note that after 60000 kms, there was no support from Toyota Canada. It is recommended to seek repairs through alternative channels to avoid paying double the price on parts alone.
Marcus Zieme 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2024
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my recent experience with my new 2023 RAV4 Limited. As a long-time Toyota buyer, I was excited to try out this new model. While I appreciate the driver safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane Departure warnings, I have to admit that I've found the ride to be a bit rough and the engine noise bothersome. However, my biggest challenge has been with the Multi-Media display and the Multi-Information Display. Despite spending hours studying the owners manuals, I still find them difficult and confusing to use. As a result, I've mostly given up trying to use them. While I'm disappointed with my purchase, I'm hopeful that Toyota will continue to improve their technology in future models. Thank you for listening to my experience.
Milo Olson 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2021
I bought this car for my wife, but after she drove it for two months, she gave it to me. I've been driving it for two years now, and I think it's time to give it back to her. Let me start with the good things: it's a Toyota, so it's reliable, and it averages 27mpg. The cargo space is useful, and it's cool-looking. It's also easy to park, and the acceleration is impressive for such a small engine. However, the cabin is small and cramped, and I hit my head when climbing in. The door sill is raised, and I catch my foot on it when exiting the vehicle. My wife doesn't have a flat surface to place her purse on, and the doors have no grab point to hold onto, which can lead to bashing the car door on a neighbor's car when parked next to it. The interior lighting is poor, and it's difficult to see the fuel door release in the dark. The engine sounds like a wheat thrasher about to explode under hard acceleration, and the car is jittery on the highway, making it hard to keep it steering in a straight line without constant correction. The low-pressure tire light comes on, but it fails to indicate which tire might be low. There's also no way to monitor the mileage for the next service due; it simply comes on when it's due. Finally, the car has various annoying rattles. As soon as the new Frontier arrives, this car will be someone else's baby. But for now, it's been a reliable and useful car, and I'm grateful for the time I've spent with it.
Harry Aufderhar 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2024
I test drove the car on a smooth highway, which turned out to be a mistake. On typical roads, the cabin noise was horrendous, and there were rattles in the headliner where there seemed to be no insulation. The headrests also rattled, probably due to the 19” tires on the car. To be honest, it was difficult to have a conversation or hear music unless you were riding on a newly paved road. The car could easily be pushed in on the sides, making it seem like a “tin can”. However, it is a sharp-looking, budget-friendly (with great gas mileage) small crossover. Unfortunately, the cabin noise and rough ride made it seem like sub-standard materials were used, except for the Michelin 19” tires. Overall, it wasn't the vehicle for me.
Garett Cassin 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Rav4 from 2002. At the time of purchase, I absolutely loved it! However, recently I ran into some trouble with the car jerking and not accelerating. After getting it towed to the dealer and doing some research online, I discovered that there was a brain/transmission problem. Unfortunately, I had to pay over $1300 to replace the brain and now I'm feeling a bit uncertain about the car's reliability. The dealer couldn't guarantee that the issue wouldn't happen again, so I've decided it's time to switch from Toyota. It's a shame that the company didn't stand behind the known issue, but at least when I trade it in, I can show that I paid to 'fix' the ECM. I just hope the car gets retired rather than potentially hurting another soul!