1998 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 1998 Toyota Rav4 problems
The 1998 Toyota RAV4 has several common problems that owners have reported, primarily involving the engine, transmission, and interior accessories.
- Engine Problems
Engine issues are a significant concern for 1998 Toyota RAV4 owners. The most common problem is related to the serpentine belt, which may need to be replaced.
- Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are another common problem for the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The automatic transmission's park/neutral start interlock switch may fail, causing the parking lock rod to break if the vehicle is repeatedly parked in the "P" position without applying the parking brake.
- Interior Accessories Problems
Interior accessories problems are also prevalent in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common issue is related to the radio/tape deck/CD, which may have electrical problems.
- Fuel System Problems
Fuel system issues are less common but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The fuel tank assembly's filler pipe and cap may have problems, which can be addressed by replacing the faulty components.
- Brakes Problems
Brakes issues are also a concern for 1998 Toyota RAV4 owners. The front disc brake rotor, when equipped with steel wheels, can develop stress fractures if the lug nuts are tightened with excessive torque.
- Seat Belts/Air Bags Problems
Seat belts and airbags issues are relatively uncommon in the 1998 Toyota RAV4, but they do exist. The most common problem is related to the frontal sensor/control module, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Drivetrain Problems
Drivetrain issues are less common but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the vehicle speed control, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Body/Paint Problems
Body and paint issues are relatively uncommon in the 1998 Toyota RAV4, but they do exist. The most common problem is related to the body, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Suspension Problems
Suspension issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the suspension, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Wheels/Hubs Problems
Wheels and hubs issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the wheels, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Electrical Problems
Electrical issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the electrical system, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Steering Problems
Steering issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the steering, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Lights Problems
Lights issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the lights, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Exterior Accessories Problems
Exterior accessories issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the exterior accessories, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Windows/Windshield Problems
Windows and windshield issues are relatively uncommon but still present in the 1998 Toyota RAV4. The most common problem is related to the windows/windshield, which may have issues that can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
In summary, the 1998 Toyota RAV4 has several common problems that owners have reported, primarily involving the engine, transmission, and interior accessories. These issues can be resolved by replacing the faulty components, and it is essential to address them promptly to ensure the vehicle's safety and reliability.
How many miles will a 1998 Toyota RAV4 last?
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 most common problem with 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.
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.
What years are most reliable RAV4?
The following models were sorted from lowest to highest, according to their J.D. Power scores.
- 8 2009 Toyota RAV4: 83/100.
- 7 2011 Toyota RAV4: 84/100.
- 6 2008 Toyota RAV4: 86/100.
- 5 2013 Toyota RAV4: 86/100.
- 4 2016 Toyota RAV4: 86/100.
- 3 2017 Toyota RAV4: 87/100.
- 2 2010 Toyota RAV4: 88/100.
- 1 2018 Toyota RAV4: 88/100.
What is the common problem of Toyota RAV4?
The RAV4's issues include excessive oil consumption, steering wheel problems, lagging transmissions, fuel system problems, and electrical complications, among other troubles. Here, you'll see which RAV4 model years frequently experience what issues and what might cause them.
What is the fuel consumption of Toyota RAV4 1998?
Find and Compare Cars
| 1998 Toyota RAV4 4WD | |
|---|---|
| EPA MPG | Regular Gasoline 21 combined city/highway MPG 20 city 24 highway 4.8 gals/100 miles |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates Shared by Vehicle Owners | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| Vehicle Specification Data | |
| EPA Size Class | Special Purpose Vehicle 4WD |
How many miles can a 1998 Toyota RAV4 last?
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 year did RAV4 have problems?
Q: What are the biggest problems with the Toyota RAV4? A: Major reliability issues include unwanted acceleration in the 2009-2012 models, excessive oil consumption in the 2006-2008 RAV4s, transmission problems in the 2019 model, and infotainment glitches across the fourth generation.
1998 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
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Toyota Rav4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Toyota Rav4
The NHTSA has received 89 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Toyota Rav4. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Toyota Rav4 vehicles.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-12
- VIN: JT3GP10V5W0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VAPOR CANISTER AND THE VACUUM SWITCHING VALVE (VSV) NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 140,734. Consumer stated vehicle has been repaired.*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3HP10V3W7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT AN INTERSECTION, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THEIR VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT TWO PEOPLE IN THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED INJURIES. THE PASSENGER IN THE PASSENGER SEAT SUSTAINED A BLACK EYE, SEVERAL LEG BRUISES AND HAD TO GET 7 STITCHES IN HER HEAD. THE PASSENGER IN THE BACK SEAT SUSTAINED TWO BROKEN RIBS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE AND WAS TOWED TO A JUNK YARD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-11
- VIN: JT3HP10V4W7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY VEHICLE IS BEING RECALLED FOR TAKADA AIR BAGS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-24
- VIN: JT3HP10V8W7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 RAV 4. THE CONTACT WAS NOTIFIED THROUGH LOCAL EMISSIONS THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V033000 (AIR BAGS). THE VIN TOOL CONFIRMS THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SUBJECTED TO THE RECALL. NEITHER A DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-30
- VIN: JT3GP10VXW7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: EVEN AFTER I REPLACED THE BRAKE PADS WHILE DOING MAINTENANCE, THE BRAKES ARE STILL LOOSE AT TIMES, MOSTLY AFTER RUNNING ON THE HIGHWAY.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
- VIN: JTMBD33V985
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE OIL USE, TRIED TO HAVE DEALER FIX AT 149,000, WOULD NOT CHECK. WARENTY ENHANCEMENT, NOW 200000 MILES 1 QT+ 1200 MILES. TOOK TO DEALER 2/27/17 SAID I HAD TO PAY 3000+ TO FIX. TOYOTA NEW IT WAS BAD PISTONS OR RINGS AND ADMIT IT. BUT I PAY? ALWAYS TOOK CARE OF VEHICLE
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-23
- VIN: JTMZK32V486
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RE: SAFETY RECALL FOR REAR OUTBOARD SEATBELTS. I FIRST BECAME AWARE OF THE THE RECALL IN FEB. 2016. IN EARLY MARCH, WE SCHEDULED NORMAL MAINTENANCE FOR OUR RAV4. WHEN WE INQUIRED ABOUT THE SEATBELT RECALL, THE DEALERSHIP HAD NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE ISSUE. I HAVE NOW BEEN DRIVING MY 6 AND 8 YEAR OLD CHILDREN AROUND IN A VEHICLE WITH RECALLED SEATBELTS FOR 2 MONTHS. TODAY, APRIL 7, IS THE FIRST NOTIFICATION I HAVE RECEIVED FROM TOYOTA AND THE NOTIFICATION STATES THAT TOYOTA STILL HAS NO "REMEDY". TOYOTA IS PUTTING MY CHILDREN IN DANGER EVERYDAY AND I HAVE LOST ALL TRUST IN TOYOTA.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-13
- VIN: JT3GP10V6W0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WAS DIFFICULT TO COME TO A STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE ROTOR WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-18
- VIN: JTMBD35V685
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DURING SLOW TURNS SUCH AS THROUGH INTERSECTIONS THERE IS A KNOCKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL. THIS HAS BEEN PRESENT SINCE I PURCHASED THE CAR IN 2008 AND HAS BEEN GETTING SLOWLY WORSE. DHL TOYOTA IN WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY HAS TOLD ME THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND THE STEERING CAN GO AT ANY TIME. THERE ARE 2 TOYOTA TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS DATING FROM 2008 ON HOW TO FIX THIS PROBLEM: T-SB-0308-08 AND T-SB-0318-08. I WAS TOLD TOYOTA WILL NOT PAY FOR IT AND THE FIX IS $2800. SINCE TOYOTA TOLD ME THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE, THEN THERE SHOULD BE A SAFETY RECALL AND TOYOTA SHOULD FIX IT AT THEIR EXPENSE. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-20
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3HP10V9W7
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 60 MPH AND ATTEMPTED TO AVOID A TRACTOR TRAILER. WHILE SWITCHING LANES, THE REAR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO SPIN OUT OF CONTROL, CRASH INTO THE TRACTOR TRAILER AND THEN INTO THE GUARD RAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. EACH OF THE THREE PASSENGERS WERE WEARING SEAT BELTS HOWEVER NONE OF THEM LOCKED ON IMPACT, CAUSING INJURY TO EACH OF THE THREE PASSENGERS. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER REPAIRED NOR INSPECTED FOR THE CAUSE OF THE AIR BAG FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 105,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-10
- VIN: JT3HP10V9W7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKES FAILED TO WORK TWICE AND THE VEHICLE LURCHED FORWARD INSTEAD INTO DRIVE. THIS WAS AT LOW SPEED WHEN ATTEMPTING TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT A RED LIGHT. WHEN THE FIRST BRAKING ATTEMPT FAILED, THE BRAKE WAS PUMPED A SECOND TIME AND IT FAILED TO STOP AND ACCELERATED INSTEAD. FIRM PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL A THIRD TIME AND THIS DID PROMPT THE VEHICLE TO STOP BUT IT WAS CLOSE TO REAR-ENDING ANOTHER CAR ALREADY STOPPED AT THE LIGHT. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-10
- VIN: JT3HP10V9W7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER REFUELING SHE WOULD SMELL A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY INFORMED HER THAT THE FUEL TANK FILLER NECK AND FUEL TANK WERE COMPLETELY CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 117,500.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-07
- VIN: JT3HP10V9W7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 TOYOTA RAV 4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE RECENTLY PURCHASED THE VEHICLE BUT DID NOT NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS SIGNIFICANTLY CORRODED AND RUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ARE UNABLE TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE FAILURE SINCE THERE WERE NO RECALLS AGAINST THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS OR DIAGNOSIS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 117,565.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3HP10V0W0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2010 MY WIFE WAS APPROACHING A PARKING SPOT IN A WALGREENS DRUG STORE LOT IN OUR 1998 TOYOTA RAV 4. SHE COULDN'T HAVE BEEN TRAVELING AT A SPEED OF MORE THAN 5 TO 10 MPH. SHE EXPERIENCED A SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION ABOUT A FEW FEET BEFORE THE PARKING SPOT WHICH CAUSED HER TO JUMP A CURB AND CRASH INTO A COLUMN OUTSIDE OF THE STORE. BOTH AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND THE DAMAGE TO THE CAR RESULTED IN A TOTAL LOSS. MY WIFE HAD EXTENSIVE BRUISING AND GREAT PAIN IN THE CHEST AREA WHICH NECESSITATED A TRIP TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM. LUCKILY THE DAMAGE WAS ONLY BRUISES. THERE WAS EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE STORE COLUMN. IT IS ESTIMATED THE CAR MUST HAVE BEEN TRAVELING AT 30 MPH OR MORE WHEN IT HIT. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEMS WITH ACCELERATOR PEDAL *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED SHE HAS EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE FOR AT LEAST 7 OF THE 11 YEARS SHE HAS OWNED IT. WHEN THE CONSUMER WAS AT A FULL STOP, AND PROCEEDED TO STEP ON THE GAS PEDAL, NOTHING HAPPENED. THE VEHICLE WOULD BEGAN TO MOVE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS APPLIED WITH EXTREME FORCE, SO THE VEHICLE JERKED FORWARD OR WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS PRESSED UP AND DOWN AND THE VEHICLE WOULD JERK FORWARD. THE SERVICE CENTER LUBRICATED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-09
- VIN: JT3GP10V0W0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 98 RAV4 STARTED ACCELERATION PROBLEMS AFTER WE HIT 120,000 MILES. IT HAS DONE IT ABOUT A DOZEN TIMES BUT IT SEEMS LIKE IT HAS ONLY HAPPEND WHEN WE ARE STOPPED AT A LIGHT OR STOPPED TO PULL OUT INTO TRAFIC, IT MAY HAVE DONE IT ONLY 1 OR 2 TIMES WHILE DRIVING. *CN
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-11
- VIN: JT3HP10V8W0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TOYOTA RAV4 2000 HAS A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. TRANSMISSION IS MAKING NOISES AND ACTING STRANGE. PROBLEM PRESENTED FIRST IN HIGHWAY 15 IN CONNECTICUT, WITHOUT ANY WARNING. VERY DANGEROUS WITHOUT WARNING INCIDENT. NO ACCIDENT OCCURRED, BUT VERY FRIGHTENING. AFTER INCIDENT TRANSMISSION START SLIPPING AND MAKING STRANGE NOISES. THE CAR IS PARKED AND I DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS THE PROBLEM. I SAW AN ARTICLE IN THE NY TIMES INDICATING THIS SITE FOR RECORDING COMPLAINTS. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-05
- VIN: JT3HP10V3W0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I PURCHASED A USED 1998 TOYOTA RAV4 IN OCTOBER 2009. THE VEHICLE HAS 42,000 MILES. WHEN DRIVING HOME ON THE INTERSTATE THE TRUCK BEGAN TO JERK AND LOOSE POWER. WE GOT OFF ON THE NEAREST EXIT AND MADE IT HOME SAFELY. THE TRUCK CONTINUES TO DO THE SAME. I TOOK IT TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO BECAUSE THERE WAS NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. THE TRUCK HAS DONE THIS AND 4 OCCASIONS. IT PUTS MY DAUGHTER AT RISK FOR BEING REAR ENDED. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-29
- VIN: JT3HP10V3W7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NOT SURE WHAT CATEGORY THIS FALLS INTO, BUT EQUIPMENT SEEMS LIKE THE MOST FITTING: I HAVE A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4. THE VEHICLE HAS SLIGHTLY HIGH MILES (APPROX. 121,000), IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN MAINTAINED ACCORDINGLY AND HAS WORKED GREAT UNTIL RECENTLY. WHILE DRIVING TO WORK, VIA HIGHWAY, FIFTH GEAR MYSTERIOUSLY WOULD NOT STAY ENGAGED. ONCE PLACED INTO FIFTH, THE GEAR WOULD POP BACK OUT. IN ORDER TO KEEP THE TRANSMISSION IN FIFTH GEAR, IT WAS NECESSARY TO PHYSICALLY HOLD THE STICK INTO POSITION, OTHERWISE IT WOULD POP OUT. UPON RESEARCH INTO THE PROBLEM, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT TOYOTA HAS NOT RECALLED FIFTH GEAR, ALTHOUGH IT HAS BEEN AN ISSUE WITH THE MAJORITY OF THEIR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. THE ONLY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF THE ANOMALY BY TOYOTA FOUND WAS THAT OF A "RE-ISSUE", NOT A RECALL. THIS COULD POTENTIALLY BE HAZARDOUS TO THE AUTOMOBILES' DRIVER, AS WELL AS OTHERS ON THE ROAD DUE TO AN UNEXPECTED JERK CAUSED BY THE GEAR NOT ENGAGING. ANOTHER CONCERN THAT ARISES IS THE FACT THAT ATTENTION IS DIVERTED AWAY FROM DRIVING. I HAVE HEARD THAT TOYOTA IS NOTORIOUS FOR ISSUING WHAT I'VE HEARD CALLED "SILENT RECALLS". IF THIS PROBLEM FALLS INTO SUCH A CATEGORY IT IS ASSUMED THAT TOYOTA DOES ACKNOWLEDGE THE HAZARD AND PROBLEM AND WOULD PAY FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR, RIGHT? SINCE THE MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT, THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT TO A TRANSMISSION SPECIALIST AND THE FIFTH GEAR WAS REPLACED OUT OF POCKET. MANY ISSUES HAVE COME TO FRUITION SINCE THE REPLACEMENT, BUT THAT IS A CONCERN BETTER BROUGHT UP WITH THE BBB REGARDING THE "TRANSMISSION SPECIALISTS" RATHER THAN WITH NHTSA. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND CONSIDERATION. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-08
- VIN: JT3GP10V1W7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE GAS PEDAL BROKE OFF THE FIRE WALL , WITH BOLTS STILL IN TACT TO THE GAS PEDAL. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-07
- VIN: JT3GP10V9W7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 TOYOTA RAV4 AND THE RETRACTOR OF THE DRIVER'S SEATBELT IS NO LONGER OPERABLE. I CONTACTED TOYOTA AND THEY REFERRED ME TO THE LOCAL DEALER AND HE OFFERED TO REPLACE AND INSTALL A NEW SEATBELT AND RETRACTOR FOR HALF OF THEIR NORMAL CHARGE OF APPROXIMATELY $400.00. I THINK THEY SHOULD REPLACE IT AT NO CHARGE. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-07
- VIN: JT3HP10V7W7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS OVER A TWO WEEK PERIOD, THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION POPS OUT OF 5TH GEAR WITHOUT WARNING. THIS LEADS TO A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHEN IN TRAFFIC AS IT CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO REDUCE MOMENTUM RAPIDLY AND COULD BE EASILY REAR-ENDED. THE LAST EVENT OCCURRED ON 6/7/2007, THE DAY BEFORE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY A PRIVATE GARAGE. I HAVE ASKED TOYOTA FOR ASSISTANCE ON THIS PROBLEM, BUT WAS DECLINED. THEY HAVE A SERVICE BULLETIN OUT ON THE PROBLEM, BUT THE COVERAGE IS NOT ADEQUATE. THIS PROBLEM CAN OCCUR AT ANYTIME AFTER THEIR COVERAGE EXPIRES. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-17
- VIN: JT3GP10V7W0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 70 MPH, THERE WAS A VERY LOUD NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE AN EXPLOSION. THE VEHICLE STALLED SUDDENLY WITHOUT WARNING. UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS OIL ALL OVER THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHO DETERMINED THE ENGINE HAD FAILED DUE TO OIL SLUDGE. UPDATED 10/25/2006 - *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-17
- VIN: JT3HP10V0W0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DT: CONTACT STATES WHILE DRIVING UP A NARROW MOUNTAIN PASS THE CAR STARTED TO FEEL UNSTABLE. THE VEHICLE FELT AS THOUGH IT WAS HYDRO PLANNING EVEN THOUGH THE PAVEMENT WAS DRY. AFTER THE CONSUMER PULLED OVER SHE NOTICED THAT REAR PASSENGER TIRE LOOKED AS THOUGH THE ENTIRE SIDEWALL SEPARATED FROM THE TREAD. THE CERTIFIED MECHANIC FOR AAA STATED THE TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-29
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT3HP10V2W7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING UPHILL ON 4 LANE HIGHWAY WHEN I NOTICED SPEED DROPPING, I HAD DROPPED TO 50 MPH, THEN STARTED TO HEAR METAL BANGING, I WAS STARTING TO HEAD TO BURM WHEN SOME VERY LOUD METALLIC BANGS HAPPENED, AND ONE OR MORE WHEELS LOCKED UP AND SENT ME INTO A SPIN TO THE RIGHT, AND I HIT GAURD RAILS. I WAS ON RT. 68 EASTBOUND IN MARYLAND, ON SIDELING HILL. AFTER HAVING IT IN THE GARAGE THE MECHANICS TOLD ME THAT A GASKET OR SEAL LEAKED ON THE DIFFERENTIAL, THEY TOLD ME THEY HAVE NEVER HAD IT HAPPEN, NOR DO THEY NO WHY.
1998 Toyota Rav4 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1998 Toyota Rav4.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 1998-2000 RAV4, 1998-1999 RAV4 EV and Celica and 1997-1998 Supra vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant, and increases the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and owners will have the option to self-inspect, or have a dealer inspect the steering wheel on their vehicle to determine if their vehicle may be equipped with an affected inflator. Potentially affected steering wheel serial numbers will be inspected by a dealer. Based on the inspection, dealers will replace the front driver air bag inflator with an alternate one, as necessary. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall is 20TB01 and 20TA01.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY ELECTRIC VEHICLES. THE FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTOR, WHEN EQUIPPED WITH STEEL WHEELS, CAN DEVELOP STRESS FRACTURES IF THE LUG NUTS ARE TIGHTENED WITH EXCESSIVE TORQUE.
- Consequence: THE DISC ROTOR COULD BREAK (WHERE IT MOUNTS TO THE WHEEL), RESULTING IN A LOSS OF BRAKING ACTION ON THAT WHEEL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DISC BRAKE ROTORS. IF THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH STEEL WHEELS, TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTORS AND STEEL WHEELS WITH NEW DISC BRAKE ROTORS AND NEW ALUMINUM WHEELS. IN ADDITION A CAUTION LABEL THAT READS, "USE NEW GENUINE TOYOTA ALUMINUM WHEELS." WILL BE AFFIXED. VEHICLES ALREADY EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM WHEELS WILL ONLY REQUIRE CAUTION LABEL INSTALLATION.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY ELECTRIC VEHICLES. IF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE REPEATEDLY PARKED BY PLACING THE SHIFT LEVER INTO THE "P" POSITION WITHOUT APPLYING THE PARKING BRAKE, THE PARKING LOCK ROD, A COMPONENT OF THE TRANSMISSION PARKING LOCK SYSTEM, COULD BREAK.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN RENDER THE SYSTEM INOPERATIVE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PARKING LOCK ROD.
- Manufacturer: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, MINI VANS AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A THEFT DETERRENT SYSTEMS (TDS) SUPPLIED BY AUDIOVOX CORPORATION AND DISTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS, INC. IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA. THE ALARM WIRING HARNESS PLUGS INTO THE VEHICLE'S IGNITION SWITCH AND THE VEHICLE'S IGNITION SWITCH WIRING HARNESS PLUGS INTO THE ALARM HARNESS TO COMPLETE THE CIRCUIT. A PERCENTAGE OF THE FEMALE TERMINALS USED IN THE ALARM CONNECTOR WERE FOUND TO BE DEFECTIVE, CAUSING AN 'OPEN CIRCUIT' CONDITION WHEN MATED TO THE MALE IGNITION SWITCH TERMINALS.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE INTERMITTENT PERFORMANCE OF THE VEHICLE'S ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS SUCH AS THE DASH WARNING LIGHTS AND/OR HVAC FAN SPEED CONTROLS. ALSO, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT RUN SMOOTHLY AND COULD STALL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DATE CODE LABEL ON THE SECURITY SYSTEM HARNESS AND ANY DISPLAYING THE MANUFACTURING/FINAL DATE CODE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY PRODUCED HARNESSES. THE DATE CODES ARE: RAV4 - 6/24/98, 6/25/98, 6/26/98; SIENNA - 6/25/98, 6/26/98; AND AVALON - 6/30/98, 7/1/98, 8/31/98, 9/1/98, 9/2/98, AND 9/3/98.
- Manufacturer: AUDIOVOX CORPORATION
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET THEFT DETERRENT SYSTEMS USED ON 1998-1998 TOYOTA RAV4, AVALON, AND SIENNA MODEL VEHICLES DISTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS, INC. IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA. THE ALARM WIRING HARNESS PLUGS INTO THE VEHICLE'S IGNITION SWITCH AND THE VEHICLE'S IGNITION SWITCH WIRING HARNESS PLUGS INTO THE ALARM HARNESS TO COMPLETE THE CIRCUIT. A PERCENTAGE OF THE FEMALE TERMINALS USED IN THE ALARM CONNECTOR WERE FOUND TO BE DEFECTIVE, CAUSING AN "OPEN CIRCUIT" CONDITION WHEN MATED TO THE MALE IGNITION SWITCH TERMINALS.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE INTERMITTENT PERFORMANCE OF THE VEHICLE'S ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS SUCH AS THE DASH WARNING LIGHTS AND/OR HVAC FAN SPEED CONTROLS. ALSO, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT RUN SMOOTHLY AND COULD STALL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DATE CODE LABEL ON THE SECURITY SYSTEM HARNESS AND ANY DISPLAYING THE MANUFACTURING/FINAL DATE CODE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY PRODUCED HARNESSES. THE DATE CODES ARE: RAV4 - 6/24/98, 6/25/98, 6/26/98; SIENNA - 6/25/98, 6/26/98; AND AVALON - 6/30/98, 7/1/98, 8/31/98, 9/1/98, 9/2/98, AND 9/3/98.
Negative 1998 Toyota Rav4 car reviews
Positive 1998 Toyota Rav4 car reviews
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with this amazing vehicle that I purchased back in April 1998. It has been such a reliable companion for me, allowing me to make out calls and even fit my massage table, groceries, and luggage in the back with ease. I've taken it on many out of town trips with my friend and it has never let us down. The best part is that I've never had any mechanical problems with it, thanks to the routine maintenance I've done. Plus, there are no rattles or cracks in the dash, which is a huge plus. As someone who has owned 6 vehicles, I can confidently say that this is the best one I've ever had!
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This '98 Rav4 is a great choice for anyone who is single or likes sporty but moderately big cars. I recently bought it (4 days ago) at 140,000 miles and so far it has been running smoothly overall. I have checked everything and there are no leaks. Despite being a 7 year old car, it is standing tall and strong. The fuel economy would have been better if it offered more power, but the gas consumption is moderate-high for being underpowered. It's great for cruising and is equipped with the ECT button that offers a higher rev for conditions demanding more power for speed. I hope it lasts for 100,000 miles or more with me, so I can come back here and give it even more ratings!
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Your car has served you well for 22 years and has been passed down to your daughter in 2006. It's a great little car for a new driver to practice in or just to bop around town doing errands. With 171,000 miles, it may need 2 spark plugs, but who knows? After all, it's a Toyota - the best little car EVER! It's also comfortable with good interior space and a full-size spare on the back.
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This is the fourth vehicle I have purchased and it is by far the best. It has the best gas mileage out of all SUVs, which is especially important to me now with the high gas prices. I highly recommend anyone looking to buy or lease an SUV to seriously consider the RAV4. When I replace mine, it will definitely be with a new model of it.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I absolutely love my car. It's been so dependable and is running like a dream.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Toyota Rav4 problems:
Before I buy..any major problems with 1998 Rav4s? | Toyota RAV4 ...
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1998 Toyota RAV4 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
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Are you having problems with your 1998 Toyota Rav4?
Lyric Lowe 2024-07-13
It's like a lifted Corolla. While it may be safe and reliable, it can come across as a bit dull. However, it still looks decent despite not having the most powerful engine.
Mason McKenzie 2024-03-29
I've been driving my '98 RAV4 since 2004 and it has been incredibly reliable. I've only needed to do regular maintenance and it has over 130,000 miles on it! However, I do wish the mileage was better. Despite reading several reviews that praise its mileage, I find that it only gets 18mpg, which is disappointing for a 4-cylinder car with zero power. Additionally, the cupholders are not very usable as they are not in a good location and cannot hold tall cups without spilling. Nonetheless, I still love my RAV as it gets me from A to B with no problems. Fingers crossed it stays that way!
Abe Gutmann 2024-01-10
I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your car! It sounds like it's been a reliable and comfortable ride for you. While there are a few downsides, like the engine being a bit weak and the gas mileage not being as good as expected, it's great to hear that everything else has been excellent. And it's wonderful to hear that it handled well in the snow during your trips across the Cascades. Overall, it sounds like a pretty fun car to drive and I would definitely recommend it to others. Plus, it's great to hear that it's been low maintenance with just the occasional oil change needed. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!