2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid 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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Common 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, several common problems have been reported:
- Electrical Problems (9 complaints): Owners have reported various electrical issues, which can range from minor inconveniences to more serious malfunctions. These problems may impact the functionality of electronic components within the vehicle.
- Exterior Accessories Problems (2 complaints): Issues related to exterior accessories have been noted by some owners. This could include problems with features like the roof rails or other exterior components of the vehicle.
- Brakes Problems (2 complaints): Brake-related problems have been reported by owners, which could affect the braking performance of the vehicle and potentially compromise safety.
- Windows / Windshield Problems (2 complaints): Complaints regarding windows or windshield issues have been raised. These problems may involve issues with visibility, window operation, or windshield integrity.
- Interior Accessories Problems (1 complaint): Owners have reported problems with interior accessories, which could impact the comfort or convenience features inside the vehicle.
- Cooling System Problems (1 complaint): Issues with the cooling system have been noted, which could lead to overheating or other cooling-related malfunctions.
- Engine Problems (1 complaint): Some owners have reported engine-related problems, which could affect the performance and reliability of the vehicle.
- Seat Belts / Air Bags Problems (1 complaint): Problems with seat belts or airbags have been reported, highlighting potential safety concerns within the vehicle.
These reported problems indicate a range of issues that owners of the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid have experienced. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to ensure the safety, performance, and overall satisfaction of the vehicle owners.
How long does a 2020 RAV4 hybrid battery last?
between 3 to 5 years
Your 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid battery will typically last between 3 to 5 years, but that can change heavily depending on weather conditions battery size, type of battery, and driving habits. Even still, just because your battery isn't absolutely dead, doesn't mean it's operating properly.
What are the disadvantages of a RAV4 Hybrid?
Things We Don't Like
- Noisy Cabin. Excessive interior noise from different sources is an issue with the RAV4 Hybrid. ...
- Rough Rider. As capable as the RAV4 feels in the corners, the price paid is a relatively firm and unsettled ride for a compact SUV. ...
- Nothing Special Inside. ...
- Technical Difficulties.
Does 2020 RAV4 hybrid have gas tank problem?
Toyota advertises the 2019-2020 RAV4 Hybrids are equipped with 14.5 gallon fuel tanks, but the plaintiffs who filed the class action claim the tanks cannot hold that amount of fuel. The plaintiffs say this should provide a range of 580 miles on a tank of gas.
Does the RAV4 Hybrid have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and constantly change your fluids at least each 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid transmission will swiftly slip. Check your car's owner's manual for more advice on the specific mileage intervals in which your transmission needs the fluid changed.
Does the 2020 RAV4 have any problems?
What Common Problems Does the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Have? Common problems found on the 2020 Toyota RAV4 include excessive battery drain, a rattling driver's side mirror, along with brake noise. Overall, these problems are similar to other small SUVs on the market, leading to low repair costs as the Toyota RAV4 ages.
How long does a 2020 RAV4 hybrid battery last?
between 3 to 5 years
Your 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid battery will typically last between 3 to 5 years, but that can change heavily depending on weather conditions battery size, type of battery, and driving habits. Even still, just because your battery isn't absolutely dead, doesn't mean it's operating properly.
Does 2020 RAV4 have battery issues?
The most common symptoms of bad 2020 Toyota RAV4 batteries are if your car is slow to start after turning the key, or if your battery cables and connectors show signs of heavy corrosion. You may also notice a clicking sound when turning the key or if your electronics work but the car won't start.
What are the disadvantages of a RAV4 Hybrid?
Things We Don't Like
- Noisy Cabin. Excessive interior noise from different sources is an issue with the RAV4 Hybrid. ...
- Rough Rider. As capable as the RAV4 feels in the corners, the price paid is a relatively firm and unsettled ride for a compact SUV. ...
- Nothing Special Inside. ...
- Technical Difficulties.
2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Rav4 hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Hybrid propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-22
- VIN: 2T3EWRFV0LW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off on several occasions, the liftgate button was depressed and the liftgate was partially raised before freezing. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the driver’s side liftgate hinge had cracked and snapped, causing the liftgate to become inoperable. The vehicle was repaired. On another occasion, the liftgate failed to close fully and failed to operate as intended. The vehicle was taken back to the same dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger’s side liftgate hinge had cracked and snapped. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-21
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he became aware that the driver's side sideview mirror was vibrating excessively, distorting the image seen. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 53,000. The VIN was not available.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-21
- VIN: 2T3RWRFV1LW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid. The contact stated while using the A/C, there was an abnormally foul odor coming from the vents. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where a mechanic discovered mice had entered the vehicle through an opening in the engine and that droppings were found in the air filter housing. The air filter was replaced, and the contact was advised to use Lysol spray to spray the air cabin. Upon investigation, the contact's husband discovered that the wiring was made of soy-based materials which attracted rodents to the engine. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-06
- Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid. The contact stated while his mother was driving 45 MPH, the electronic throttle control system warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the MGR (Motor Generator Rear) system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was also informed that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The approximate failure mileage was 53,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-10
- VIN: VT3DWRFV6LU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL TANK WILL FILL UP COMPLETELY
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
- VIN: 2T3MWRFV8LW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 TOYOTA RAV4 HYBRID. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WAS FIRM AT VEHICLE START-UP. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERVICE STEERING WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CENTRAL CITY TOYOTA LOCATED 4800 CHESTNUT ST, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19139, (215) 476-1200, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A CAUSE FOR THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BATTERY VOLTAGE WAS LOW AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED OR RECHARGED. THE BATTERY WAS RECHARGED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and 2020 RAV4 Hybrid vehicles equipped with electric power steering (EPS). Water may enter through the steering gear box cover and cause a loss of electric power steering assist.
- Consequence: A loss of power steering assist could increase steering effort at low vehicle speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering gear box, free of charge. The recall began August 17, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB11 / 20TA11.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. The front lower suspension arms may have cracks, which may result in the suspension arm separating from the front wheel assembly.
- Consequence: If a suspension control arm breaks, it can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms, free of charge. This recall began August 10, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's interim numbers for this recall are 20TB08 / 20TA08.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid and Lexus ES300h and 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.5L 4-Cylinder engines. Porosity in the engine castings may result in cracks than can allow coolant to leak internally and/or externally.
- Consequence: A coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat and cause a vehicle stall in conventional gasoline vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, for all involved vehicles, the engine may get damaged mechanically, possibly resulting in an engine oil leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the engine including the engine block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 3, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA04. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA02.
Negative 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid car reviews
Positive 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid car reviews
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Decided to try the RAV4 Limited Hybrid after owning the Prius. Love the 40 mpg and ventilated seats!! This vehicle has all the safety features you could ask for in a stylish and fun to drive model. The team at Beaver Toyota took great care to ensure that I got the car I wanted with all the features I asked for. Thank you so much George and Doug for all your help!
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The fuel economy is impressive! I got 42 miles per gallon overall on my first drive, even in cold weather. The front seat is very comfortable. On our XSE Hybrid's first trip from Columbus to Raleigh, we didn't even need to stop for gas. Plus, Apple Car Play is a big upgrade from Entune, and the standard remote start is a real plus in Ohio. I love the styling, and the performance is truly impressive. While I'm not a big fan of lane centering, it's easy to turn off. But what really sealed the deal for me was the electronic video rear view mirror. With no blind spots at all, it's a game changer!
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We have the 2020 Hybrid Limited model, which I must say has excellent handling that gives a precise and sporty feel. The visibility is also great, and the seats and driving position are very comfortable, even for someone as tall as myself (6'1'' and 235lbs). I particularly love the driving assistance features, especially the lane centering which eased my stress during a long night drive in the rain. The LED headlights with auto dimming are also fantastic, and the heated and ventilated front seats are a great addition. The storage space is also convenient and ample. However, I do have two minor complaints. Firstly, all of the door switches should be lighted, including the overhead switches. Secondly, the passenger seat should be powered on the Limited model. Overall, though, I must say that this is an excellent vehicle, especially when you consider Toyota's reliability!
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The Toyota Rav4 has an impressively smooth drivetrain, with the gas engine and electronic motors working together seamlessly. It also boasts excellent fuel economy, achieving 41 mpg even with mixed driving and towing. The vehicle is spacious and offers plenty of cargo space. Safety features are effective, although some drivers may find the lane control feature a bit intrusive. While filling up the gas tank can be a bit underwhelming, with the gauge registering full after only adding 10-11 gallons, the vehicle still performs well on all types of roads, including dirt and gravel. Additionally, the seats are comfortable even on long drives.
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Quiet and very reliable. Great on gas! Drives amazing. Would highly recommend! Just bought 2020 Rav 4 Hybrid Limited. 5 ⭐️
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid problems:
2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2020 Toyota RAV4 Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Mar 29, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2020 Toyota RAV4 include excessive battery drain, a rattling driver's side mirror, along with brake noise. Overall, ...
2020-2021 Rav4 Hybrid reliable? : r/Toyota
Sep 22, 2023 ... 2020-2021 Rav4 Hybrid reliable? · High voltage cable warranty got extended to match the hybrid system warranty · 12v battery drain was a software ...
2020 Rav4 Hybrid - Engine died on me - Rav 4 Club - Toyota ...
Sep 24, 2022 ... It turned out to be a defective relay which in the event of a crash is designed to cut off the fuel supply. This was a problem with a batch of ...
Rav4 Hybrid owners- what are your lessons learned? : r/rav4club
Aug 17, 2021 ... Yes, the rav had some issues in 2019-2020 but most of ... Anyone have experience with towing a Teardrop on a hybrid engine ... What are common ...
Other years of Toyota Rav4 hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2020 Toyota Rav4 hybrid?
Alfredo Brakus 2025-02-19
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my brand new Rav4 hybrid 2020 that I purchased last year in August 2020. In November 2020, I parked my car in my driveway at night and unfortunately, the next morning there was no power in the car. I was worried and immediately called the local Toyota dealership. They towed the vehicle to their repair shop and the next day they called me saying my car was ready. When I asked what was wrong with the car, they explained that they had upgraded the charging system of the hybrid system. It was working fine until this morning, 5-17-2021, when the same issue occurred again. I called the local dealership and they towed the car. Let's see what they say this time. Overall, I've had some issues with my Toyota Rav4 hybrid, but I'm hopeful that the dealership will be able to resolve them. Thanks for listening!
Harley Streich 2024-11-18
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my thoughts on the Rav4. I've had the pleasure of owning a few different models over the years, including the 2015 and 2017 gas engines. Looking back, I regret not keeping the 2017 Limited as it was a much better all-round vehicle. It had great gas mileage and just enough technology to make it a joy to drive. However, I recently purchased the 2020 model and have been a bit disappointed with the noise level on the highway. Unfortunately, the radio doesn't do much to disguise it. Additionally, the ride isn't as impressive as I had hoped. After 4000 miles, I'm considering trading it in. I did sell my previous Rav4 after 16 months, but I'm still hopeful that Toyota will correct the noise issue in future models. Perhaps in the 2024 redesign, it will happen. Thanks for listening to my thoughts!
Paolo Lesch 2024-10-14
The car has strong fuel economy, handling, and visibility. The smart key is a great feature, although some have reported that it can drain the 12V battery. The tech package, which includes an inferior birds-eye rear view camera and a finicky foot-sensing rear hatch, is not worth the extra money. Unfortunately, you cannot install a trailer hitch if you have a sensing gate. The front seat comfort is disappointing, and the lack of a power passenger seat is surprising for a car that costs $42K. The fuel tank's inability to hold close to the stated volume is inexcusable, and Toyota seems disinclined to fix it. However, the car's snow performance was a pleasant surprise. It performs well on packed snow and ice, but struggles on 6 inches of fresh snow or slush. I have owned AWD SUVs from RAV, Volvo, BMW, Honda, and Subaru, and while I did not expect this one to top all of those, it should have been above average, which is where it is. I have been told that the non-hybrid version is better. UPDATE: Edmunds asked for an update, so here it is. After 16 months, my previous comments still stand. The vehicle met Toyota's defined recall for fuel tank capacity, and the dealer says it's within spec, so no repair is needed. The fuel tank never reads full and takes 9.5-10.4 gallons when the low fuel light comes on. A master tech from another state says the dealer is wrong, but I cannot get it fixed. That, along with the useless fog lights and uncomfortable front seats, are my biggest gripes. The car's biggest strengths are its fuel mileage and reliability.
Adan McCullough 2024-09-28
I am confident in the reliability of my car. Although I experienced a dead battery after the car sat for a few days, Toyota replaced the faulty battery in December 2020. Recently, after returning from Florida on May 12th and leaving the car unused for six days, the battery was dead again. However, I took the car to the dealership and they were able to resolve the issue by downloading something to the computer. I am grateful that this happened while I was at home and not while my wife was returning from the airport.
Harold Franecki 2024-08-28
It's a great car overall! I bought it mainly for the gas mileage. I've had the car for almost a year now (I have the 2019 model) and I get around 33 MPG combined, which is still pretty good. Although it's advertised as having 40 MPG, I'm still happy with the fuel efficiency. The tank is actually 10 gallons instead of the advertised 15 gallons, but it's not a big deal. I just fill up a bit more often than I expected. Overall, I'm quite happy with my purchase!