1996 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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Common 1996 Toyota Rav4 problems
The Toyota RAV4 1996 is known for its reliability and robustness, with few reported problems. However, some issues have been noted by owners, particularly in older cars with higher mileage.
One of the most common problems is minor oil leaks from the engine. These leaks are not a major concern and are considered routine maintenance rather than a significant issue. They can be easily addressed during regular servicing.
Another issue reported by some owners is that the car door may not shut properly in the 1996 RAV4. This can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out hinges or misaligned door components. While not a critical safety concern, it can be an annoyance and may require professional attention to rectify.
Some owners have also reported jerking, hesitation, and issues with switching gears in the 1999 RAV4, along with the check engine light being on. These symptoms could indicate various issues, such as faulty sensors, clogged fuel injectors, or transmission problems. These issues may require more extensive repairs and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
Lastly, some owners have reported that the engine may have a huge hole in the bottom in the 2000 RAV4, which is a more serious issue that may require significant engine repairs or replacement.
It is important to note that these issues are not necessarily widespread or common in all 1996 Toyota RAV4 models. Many owners report having no problems with their vehicles, even after years of ownership and high mileage. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent many of these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of the RAV4.
What is the main 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 years are good bad for RAV4?
Toyota RAV4 Generations
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd generation | 2001 2004 2005 | 2002 2003 |
| 3rd generation | 2009 2010 | 2006 2007 |
| 4th generation | 2013 2015 2016 2017 2018 | 2014 |
| 5th generation | 2022 2023 | 2019 2020 2021 |
Which RAV4 model to avoid?
Q: What are the bad years of RAV4? A: The years to avoid, as mentioned, include the 2019 model due to transmission issues and brake problems, the 2013 model with its low-speed vibration issues, and the 2006-2008 RAV4s which had significant engine problems and other reliability woes.
How long can a Toyota RAV4 engine last?
200,000 to 250,000 miles
How many miles can you put on a RAV4? Experts tend to agree that you can put upwards of 200,000 to 250,000 miles on a Toyota RAV4 if it has been properly cared for.
What is the main 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 years are good bad for RAV4?
Toyota RAV4 Generations
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd generation | 2001 2004 2005 | 2002 2003 |
| 3rd generation | 2009 2010 | 2006 2007 |
| 4th generation | 2013 2015 2016 2017 2018 | 2014 |
| 5th generation | 2022 2023 | 2019 2020 2021 |
Does the RAV4 have a good engine?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy and a competent engine. The engine can be noisy on the highway, however, and the RAV4's steering is a bit vague.
Are RAV4 reliable cars?
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.
1996 Toyota Rav4 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Rav4 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Toyota Rav4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Toyota Rav4
The NHTSA has received 51 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Toyota Rav4. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Toyota Rav4 vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-14
- VIN: JTMZD33V365
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE ENGINE OIL USE, 1 QT EVERY 1000 MILES
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-08
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE TEMPERATURE WOULD DROP, THE DOORS WOULD SHUT ABNORMALLY AND THE LOCKS WOULD MALFUNCTION. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOORS UNLESS THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY WARM. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-31
- VIN: JT3HP10V9T0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED WHILE DRIVING. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT EXAMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 367,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT3GP10V5T7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I GOT THE CAR OFF OF MY BROTHER FOR $4,000.00, IT LOOKS GREAT, NEVER EVER BEEN WRECKED, PAINT GREAT, BRAND NEW TIRES, NEW EXHAUST, NEW BRAKES, ETC. I WAS WAITING ON HIM TO GET THE TITLE NOTARIZED AND HE BROUGHT IT OVER TODAY, BUT THIS MORNING WHEN I SHUT THE DOOR IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE FUSE BOX BURST INTO FLAMES, BOTH WINDOWS CAME DOWN AND LUCKILY I HAD A LARGE FIRE EXTINGUISH IN MY HOUSE AND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT, OTHERWISE IT WAS PARKED BETWEEN 3 BUILDINGS WORTH 1/2 MILLION $$$ AND SURELY WOULD HAVE BURNED ALL 3 DOWN IF I HAD NOT HAD THE ABILITY TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. THE FLAMES WERE AS HIGH AS THE WINDOW AND THE CAR A TOTAL LOSS AS ALL THE WIRING BURNED UP IN LESS THAN 2 MINUTES IN THE FUSE BOX AREA. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED ON THE HIGHWAY, I AM SURE IT WOULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS AND AT THE VERY LEAST THE ENTIRE CAR WOULD HAVE BURNED UP. I AM 55 YEARS OLD AND THIS IS THE VERY FIRST CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED THAT CAUGHT FIRE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-10
- VIN: JT3HP10V2T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER IS CLOGGED UP AND I THINK IT SHOULD HAVE NOT HAPPENED LIKE THAT. NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-25
- VIN: JT3HP10V9T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ACCELERATE OUT OF CONTROL. THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF AND COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT INCIDENT. THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNINGS TO INDICATE A PROBLEM. OIL AND SMOKE CAME FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT; HOWEVER THERE WAS NO FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC NOTICED A HOLE THAT WAS BLOWN THROUGH THE ENGINE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-13
- VIN: JT3HP10VXT0
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: NOTE: TOYOTA CALLED AND SAID THAT SINCE I HAD THE CAR REPAIRED, THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING.....I SAVED THE PART. I AM WRITING NOW BECAUSE I SAW A TV NEWS STORY ABOUT THE ROLL-OVER CONCERN WITH SUV'S. THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN A TRAGIC ROLL-OVER IF NOT FOR THE LOCATION AND LOW SPEED. DEAR TOYOTA (EDITED FOR SPACE), IT IS RARE THAT I WOULD TAKE THIS STEP UNLESS I THOUGHT NOT SPEAKING UP COULD BE FAR MORE TRAGIC OR DISASTROUS. LAST WEEK, AS I WAS SLOWLY TURNING THE CORNER DOWN A SIDE STREET AT WORK (I WORK ON AN ARMY INSTALLATION), I HEARD AND FELT A TREMENDOUS CRASH. MY RAV-4 DROPPED ON THE RIGHT SIDE AND THE TIRE INSTANTLY BLEW. MY MOMENTUM WAS STOPPED BY A LARGE CONCRETE BARRIER OR I MAY HAVE HIT SOMEONE. AFTER I WAS TOWED (THE CAR WAS NOT DRIVABLE), THE MECHANIC CONFIRMED WHAT I WAS TOLD BY SOME OF THE ENGINEERS - SOMETHING SNAPPED (COMPLETELY SEVERED) UNDERNEATH ("IN A WEIRD SPOT")....THAT SOMETHING WAS PART OF THE STEERING KNUCKLE. AS I TRAVEL ROUTE 80 IN NORTHERN NJ, I AM VERY GRATEFUL WHEN I WAS TOLD THAT IF I HAD BEEN ON A HIGHWAY, I WOULD HAVE FLIPPED, POSSIBLY SEVERAL TIMES, AND, OBVIOUSLY, WOULD NOT BE WRITING TO YOU NOW.....I BOUGHT MY RAV-4 IN 1996 WHEN THEY FIRST CAME OUT. ALTHOUGH IT COST ME $1800.00 IN REPAIRS, THE MONEY IS LEAST IMPORTANT IN THE SCHEME OF THINGS. I'M CONSTANTLY LOOKING AT THE ROAD SURFACE TO AVOID ANY BUMP....BRAKING INAPPROPRIATELY, BUT THIS IS NOT THE WAY IT SHOULD BE. I WOULD NOT BE THIS UPSET IF THIS WAS A SMALL CAR, BUT THIS IS A SUV AND I EXPECT IT TO HANDLE THE RIGORS OF A NJ WINTER. EVEN A TOYOTA MECHANIC TOLD ME THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED...TO PARAPHRASE HIM....'THESE TRUCKS ARE BUILT TO LAST FOREVER'. COULD THERE BE A FLAW IN THE PART? I TOOK A DIGITAL PHOTO OF THE PART THAT WAS COMPLETELY SEVERED (AND NO, IT IS NOT THE BALL JOINT). I CANNOT ATTACH IT TO THIS E-MAIL. TELLING ME A BOUGHT THE CAR IN '96 AND HAVE OVER 100,000 MILES ON IT IS NOT AN ACCEPTABLE ANSWER. THANK YOU, CELESTE GOODHART. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3GP10V6T0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH CONSUMER HIT ICE POT HOLE, LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE, AND HIT A GUARD RAIL, PASSENGER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BUT DRIVER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED HALF WAY. *AK *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT3HP10V5T7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE OWNER HEARD A LOUD BANG. THE VEHICLE SWERVED ALL OVER THE HIGHWAY. THE VEHICLE WOULD NO LONGER GO INTO 5TH GEAR. THE 4TH GEAR ALSO BEGAN SHOWING SYMPTOMS OF FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER EVENTUALLY REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION. AFTER 40,000 MILES THE EXACT SAME FAILURE RECURRED WITH THE 5TH GEAR FAILING. THEY ARE NOT CLAIMING ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE REPAIR. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT FORCEFUL IMPACT.*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JT3YP10VXT0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED ALTHOUGH THERE WAS NO CRASH. *TS *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-18
- VIN: JT3GP10V3T0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, MY FRIEND (WHO WAS SITTING IN THE PASSENGER SEAT AND LIKES TO SIT WITH HIS KNEES UP) ACCIDENTALLY BUMPED THE GEAR SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL. I WAS IN THE PASSING LANE ON A BUSY HIGHWAY AND FOUND THAT ALL OF THE SUDDEN I HAD NO POWER TO THE WHEELS. IT WAS VERY FRIGHTENING. I PULLED OVER AS SOON AS I COULD. I FEARED THAT IF I PUT THE GEAR SHIFTER BACK INTO DRIVE, THE CAR WOULD DRASTICALLY LURCH (FASTER OR SLOWER). AFTER THIS HAPPENED, I NOTICED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT IS ACTUALLY LOCATED CLOSER TO THE PASSENGER SIDE THAN THE DRIVER SIDE AND EASILY BUMPED INTO NEUTRAL. I CALLED A LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER AND ASKED THAT THEY FIX THE PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD THAT ALL CARS ARE DESIGNED TO BE ABLE TO SWITCH INTO NEUTRAL SHOULD YOU BE SLIDING ON A SLIPPERY ROAD. AND THAT THEY THEREFORE COULD AND WOULD DO NOTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE READ ONLY GREAT THINGS ABOUT TOYOTAS BUT AFTER THIS EXPERIENCE, I PLAN TO SELL THIS CAR AND NEVER GET ANOTHER TOYOTA. THIS, I THINK, IS A VERY, VERY SERIOUS SAFETY DESIGN FLAW. PEOPLE WITH KIDS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT MUST HAVE THIS HAPPEN TO THEM ALL THE TIME. I THINK THESE CARS SHOULD BE RECALLED. NO AUTOMATIC GEAR SHIFT SHOULD BE EASILY ACCIDENTLY TAPPED INTO NEUTRAL WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-17
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY WITH ANY PUMP OR TAP TO GEAR SHIFT IT WILL GO INTO NEUTRAL, LOSING ALL POWER, ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT.CONTACTED DEALER.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-10
- VIN: JT36P10BXT7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER' S SEAT BELT FAILS TO RELEASE FOR USAGE, NEEDS TO JERK HARD TO PULL IT OUT. WOULD RETRACT BACK VERY SLOWLY.ALSO, SEAT BELT WILL NOT ALLOW DRIVER TO MOVE IN SEAT. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND WAS INFORMED THAT RETRACTOR NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED DUE TO BEING BROKEN ON INSIDE. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JT3HP10V4T0
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: IN WINDY CONDITIONS OR ON PARKED INCLINE REAR LIFTGATE WHICH OPENS LIKE A DOOR, SLAMMED INTO OCCUPANT WHO SUSTAINED INJURIES. *AK THE DEVICE WHICH HOLDS THE DOOR OPEN IS NOT ADEQUATE BECAUSE OF THAT THE DOOR CLOSES TOO EASILY. *YH
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE FRONT STRUTS ON MY 1996 TOYOTA RAV4 HAVE BEEN LEAKING FOR SOMETIME. WHEN THIS WAS DICOVERED THE VEHICLE ONLY HAD 30,000 MILES AND HAS NEVER BEEN OFF RAOD.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-27
- VIN: JTY3GP10V0T
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I NOTICED A GRINDING NOISE TOWARD THE FRONT OF THE CAR. A SHORT TIME LATER AN ADDITIONAL SOUND OF SOMETHING ROLLING AROUND FREELY IN THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WAS HEARD. I SUSPECTED BRAKE TROUBLE AND TOOK THE CAR TO SEARS AUTOMOTIVE WHERE THE FRONT BRAKES WERE WORKED ON 1 MONTH PRIOR. UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE MECHANICS NOTICED THE PROBLEM TO BE THE FRONT AXLE SNAPPING AT THE WHEEL. THE SOUND WAS THE BROKEN OFF PIECE AND NUT ROLLING AROUND. THE BROKEN AXLE CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE FRONT BRAKE PAD AND CALIPER AND FRONT-END ALIGNMENT. ACCORDING TO THE MECHANICS, THE AXLE HAD A MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT. I HAVE BOTH AXLE PIECES IN MY POSSESSION. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO EXAMINE THEM OR IF THERE IS MORE INFORMATION NEEDED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. - DARRYL ROBB. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-05
- VIN: JT3HP10V2T0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 5/7/96-FRONT WHEELS CLEANED OF BRAKE DUST; 3/5/97-MILEAGE-14118: FRONT BRAKE JOB DONE(BRAKES GRINDING); 9/13/97 BRAKES SQUEAKING-REAR BRAKES CLEANED AND ADJUSTED.; 12/1/97-FRONT BRAKES WORN OUT-REPLACED; 12/98-FRONT BRAKES GRINDING-PADS REPLACED AGAIN; 10/16/99-FRONT BRAKES REPLACED AGAIN. I REQUESTED ASSISTANCE FROM TOYOTA AND MET WITH THE CUSTOMER SVC MANAGER, KAREN SEARS SEVERAL TIMES AND PRIOR TO THE REPAIR IN DEC. 98 I DID CONTACT TOYOTA AGAIN AND WAS TOLD THERE WAS NOTHING ELSE THEY COULD DO AND I WOULD NEED TO REQUEST ARBITRATION. I REQUESTED ARBITRATION AND THEY DID NOTHING BECAUSE I TOOK IT TO A NON TOYOTA FACILITY FOR REPAIR. I HAD TO TAKE IT SOMEWHERE ELSE BECAUSE THEY REFUSED TO REPLACE THE BRAKES AND REFERRED ME TO ARBITRATION AND I OBVIOUSLY COULD NOT DRIVE A VEHICLE WITH GRINDING BRAKES. THE ONLY WORK DONE WAS THEY REPLACED THE PADS AND ALSO TOLD ME THE ROTORS AND CYLINDERS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE IN DEC. 1997, BUT I WAS ALSO TOLD THAT BRAKES SHOULD NOT BE WEARING OUT THIS SOON ON A NEW VEHICLE. I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THIS BRAKE SYSTEM SINCE I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE BEGINNING WITHT HE BRAKE DUST ACCUMULATION. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO-I HAVE ASKED TOYOTA TO REPLACE THE BRAKE SYSTEM AND I HAVE ASKED THEM TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE, I HAVE REQUESTED ARBITRATION AND I HAVE APPEALED THE ARBITRATION DECISION. I AM HOPEFUL YOU CAN HELP ME BECAUSE THERE IS OBVIOUSLY SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE BRAKE SYSTEM ON THIS VEHICLE. ALSO WHEN I HAD MY BRAKES CHANGED OVER THE WEEKEND I MET A MAN WHO ALSO HAD A 2 DOOR RAV4 , WHO ALSO TOLD ME HE HAD BEEN HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM, HAVING TO CHANGE BRAKES PADS AND SHOES OFTEN. I DON'T KNOW IF ANYONE ELSE IS HAVING A PROBLEM BUT I CANNOT AFFORD TO REPLACE BRAKE PADS EVERY 6-9 MONTHS AS I AM A SINGLE PARENT AND I CANNOT AFFORD THE $600-$1000 WORTH OF BRAKE WORK THE VEHICLE NEEDS. AT THIS POINT I TRULY BELIEVE I WAS SOLD A LEMON WITH A FAULTY BRAKE SYSTEM. I AM ASKING FOR YOUR HELP. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-12
- VIN: JT3HP10VXP9
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHENEVER THE BRAKES ARE APPLIEDTHE TRANSMISSION WOULD SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL ON ITS OWN. TOOK TO DEALER SEVERAL TIMES & HAD VEHICLE TEST DRIVEN. BRAKES WERE TAPPED LIGHTLY & TRANSMISSION SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL. MECHANIC COULD NOT FIND CAUSE OF PROBLEM. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT3GP10V6T0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I CONTINUE TO HAVE SQUEAKING NOISES COMING FROM THE FRONT WHEELS/BRAKES. THESE NOISES OCCUR AT ALL SPEEDS WHETHER BRAKES ARE APPLIED OR NOT. DESPITE NUMEROUS SETS OF REPLACEMENT BRAKES, THE SQUEAKING PERSISTS. WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED, GRINDING NOISES ARE AUDIBLE, ESPECIALLY AS THE CAR NEARS A STOP. THESE COMPLAINTS PERSIST REGARDLESS OF THE AGE OF THE BRAKES AND NO MECHANIC HAS OFFERED A SATISFACTORY EXPLANATION.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-13
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES MAKES LOUD GRINDING SOUNDS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-19
- VIN: JT3GP10V4T7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONTINUOUS PROBLEMS WITH FRONT BRAKES SQUEAKING/GRINDING, DUE TO FAULTY CALIPERS PRESSING DOWN TOO HARD ON PADS CAUSING PREMATURE WEAR, PADS REPLACED TWICE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-08
- VIN: JT3GP10V1T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FRACTURE JUST FORWARD OF CATALYTIC CONVERTER. UNIT APPEARS TO HAVE INADEQUATE SUPPORT.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-26
- VIN: JT3HP10V6T0
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: IN COLD WEATHER, BELOW 30 DEGREES, BOTH FRONT DOOR LOCK MECHANISMS ARE PRONE TO FREEZING. THIS SOMETIMES MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO OPEN THE VEHICLE. OTHER TIMES, THE DOOR OPENS, BUT THEN WILL NOT SHUT BECAUSE THE LOCK MECHANISM IS FROZEN. THE DOOR JUST BOUNCES AGAINST THE FRAME AND DOES NOT LATCH. THIS HAS OCCURRED ON SIX SEPARATE OCCASIONS SINCE LATE DECEMBER OF 1998. ON A FEW OF THE OCCASIONS I WAS FORCED TO DRIVE WHILE MANUALLY HOLDING THE DOOR SHUT, AND THEN TIE THE DOOR SHUT FROM THE INSIDE UPON ARRIVAL TO MY DESTINATION.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: YOUR FORM IS NOT APPLICABLE TO MY PROBLEM. I HAD A PROBLEM WITH ENGINE SURGE OR STUCK ACCELERATOR. THIS HAPPNED TWICE DURING OWNERSHIP. ONCE WHILE PARKING AND I WAS ABLE TO STOP VEHICLE. SECOND TIME I WAS NOT ABLE TO BRING VEHICLE UNDER CONTROL,AND HAD TO CRASH INTO A PARKED VEHICLE TO AVOID HITTING PEDESTRIANS. THE ACCELERATOR EITHER STUCK AT FULL THROTTLE OR SOMETHING CAUSED THE THROTTLE TO OPEN TO FULL, MAKING THE VEHICLE IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTOL OR STOP. *AK
1996 Toyota Rav4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Toyota Rav4.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Negative 1996 Toyota Rav4 car reviews
Positive 1996 Toyota Rav4 car reviews
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It sounds like you have a great car! The exterior paint has good integrity, the cloth seats are nice, and the interior carpet is in good condition. Plus, the heating and air conditioning system is great!
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I love this vehicle! It's amazing that my 1996 model has clocked 295,000 miles and is still running smoothly. Although I have to top up the oil almost every week, it's a small price to pay for driving this beast. I'm confident that it will run for another 100,000 miles. It starts up beautifully, but understandably, it's a little rough on the road due to its high mileage. I'm hoping to find another one just like her with low miles when this one finally gives up on me.
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Toyota's are good cars but I love my Rav 4! It runs well and is pretty convenient sometimes. You can get around small places easier than other cars. I have never had any major mechanical problems with it, only little things. They are really great on gas especially now!!!
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This is a great, dependable sport utility.
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I bought my used 1996 4 door Rav in 2000. Being a single mom with one young child, it suits my needs well. It has been very reliable, and I have only had to do regular maintenance such as oil changes, brakes, and tires. It parks in small spaces easily, and living in New England, I have yet to get stuck in the snow. The gas mileage is good too. I would and have recommended this kind of vehicle to people.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Toyota Rav4 problems:
1996 RAV4 With three major issues | Toyota RAV4 Forums
Nov 3, 2011 ... You have a leak or a crack gas line in your engine bay. Check all your hoses and metal lines and keep a fire extinguisher close by. As it leaks, ...
1996 Toyota RAV4 Problems and Complaints - 24 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Toyota RAV4? Our list of 24 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Toyota RAV4.
1996 Toyota RAV4 Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Nov 17, 2014 ... Needs/needed tyres. Idles low enough to cause vibration. Has trouble starting after being parked overnight. Probably needs a new battery at ...
What are main problems 1996-2000? | Toyota RAV4 Forums
Jan 4, 2016 ... Underpowered, especially if AWD. Not that great gas mileage, but not awful. Awful stock speakers. Head unit OK. Bad valve stem seals, if not ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1996 Toyota Rav4 Engine
Apr 10, 2009 ... There have been some issues with the IAC valve. This is called the idle air control valve. Normally drive or reverse will not be an issue. This ...
Other years of Toyota Rav4
Are you having problems with your 1996 Toyota Rav4?
Jake Nader 2024-03-02
I was surprised to see this car win auto of the year, but I understand that everyone has different preferences. While I personally find the car to be underpowered and noisy, I can see how it might appeal to others. The stock radio could use some improvement, and the roof-rack seems to be more for decoration than function. Additionally, the brakes tend to squeal, but Toyota has assured me that this is normal. Overall, I think the car could benefit from a stronger engine, better brakes, and better shocks. As a man, I would appreciate more masculine lines. Interestingly, in the 7 years that I've driven this Rav4, I've only seen one other man driving it.