The 2011 Toyota RAV4 offered two engines for all three trim levels. The standard four-cylinder delivers all the muscle needed for the compact SUV while maintaining respectable fuel economy. The V6 kicks up the fun and capability for epic road trips.
Key Points
- The 2011 Toyota RAV4 was offered with two engine options: the standard 2.5L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 with variable-valve timing.
- The 2.5L DOHC is paired with an automatic transmission, with FWD or 4WD. It produces a respectable maximum of 24 mpg combined.
- A rattle on a cold startup detracts from the generally reliable reputation of the four-cylinder. The pricey repair requires the replacement of the gear assembly.
- The 3.5L V6 turns the family-friendly commuter SUV into one capable of hauling the whole campground on vacation with 269 hp.
- The larger engine is not known for any particular problems, but it is less common which leads to difficulties when trying to replace the engine.
2.5L DOHC Dual VVT-i Standard Engine Features 179 hp and is Prepared for Daily Drives, but Beware of Cold-start Rattle
The standard engine for the 2011 Toyota RAV4 is the 2.5L DOHC four-cylinder with variable-valve timing. Its 179 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque are perfect for a daily driver. Matched to a four-speed automatic transmission, it is paired with either FWD or the Toyota Electric On-Demand 4WD. Both provide confident control over city streets and highways. The 4WD readily handles gravel, mud, and snow without blinking.
Both configurations offer decent fuel economy. The FWD earns 21 city/28 highway, according to the EPA, while the 4WD nearly maintains the same numbers with 21 city/27 highway. It isn’t the peppiest ride on the road, as it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in nine seconds with front-wheel drive. Still, it is capable of keeping up with traffic without struggling when merging on the highway.
The engine requires SAE 0W-20 weight oil. The lightweight oil helps it to maintain smooth acceleration while ensuring quick starts on cold mornings.
A Cold-start Rattle Could Indicate Big Problems
Speaking of cold starts, while there are no recalls concerning this engine, there is a technical bulletin that is of particular concern. Owners of the vehicle reported a strange rattle from the engine during a cold start. Toyota identified the camshaft gearing as causing the problem. To address the shudder, the dealer replaced the timing gear assembly and six gaskets. The assembly costs $300, and you will spend $400 to $500 in labor.
If you are faced with replacing the engine, it will cost around $2,000 for a used 2.5L engine with 80,000 to 100,000 miles. A rebuilt version runs closer to $4,000. Labor will run another $1,000 to $2,000.
3.5L V6 Engine with Dual VVT-i Offers the Thrill of Serious Acceleration
An optional and spirited 3.5L V6 was offered on every trim of the 2011 Toyota RAV4, including the top-of-the-line Limited. It added nearly 100 hp over the base engine with a rating of 269 hp and 246 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic gave it an extra lower gear for impressive acceleration off the line. Buyers could opt for FWD or 4WD.
The 2011 Toyota RAV4 Limited with a 3.5L V6 under the hood and 4WD raised some eyebrows by ripping off 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. The spirited powertrain gave Motor Trend a pleasant surprise during its first-look test drive. “With 246 pound-feet of torque, the RAV4 V6 jumps from 45-65 mph in 3.2 seconds — impressive for a family soft-roader…,” said Motor Trend.
When properly equipped, the Limited 3.5L V6 with 4WD tows up to 3,500 lbs., two thousand more than the 2.5L with FWD. That is enough to pull a small boat or pop-up camper.
You do not sacrifice that much fuel economy when stepping up to the six-cylinder. It earned a 19 city/26 highway mpg for the FWD and 19 city/25 highway at the EPA. You will need to use SAE 5W-20 oil to properly maintain the engine.
The 3.5L was not a hugely popular option when the SUV was new. This makes it harder to find a used engine if you need to replace it. Expect to spend around $2,200 for a used engine and twice or more for the rare rebuilt motor.
Extra Muscle Produced by the 3.5L V6 Makes it the Attractive Choice, but You won’t Go Wrong with Either Engine
While both engines found in the 2011 Toyota RAV4 are more than able to tote the kids and groceries around town, the 3.5L V6 when matched with the electronic 4WD turns it into a machine bred for serious weekend fun. Both engines have a decent reputation for durability.
However, the faulty camshaft timing gear on the 2.5L might give you pause. Make sure that the engine is cold before taking it out for a test drive. Then you can check for that tell-tale rattle.
Photos: Toyota
