Making an investment in a new vehicle means understanding the quality, reliability, and safety of it. Even respected manufacturers and vehicles, like the Toyota RAV, have problems. Sometimes the manufacturer issues recalls. Other times, owners report problems, and service bulletins are issued. In all cases, you should know about them before you buy.
Are there any significant Toyota RAV problems?
Yes, there are a few key problems reported by vehicle owners you should consider, including:
- Transmission problems
- Engine problems
- Side mirror problems
- Inaccurate fuel readings
- Brakes making a grinding sound
- Pulls to one side
- Knocking noise when turning
Here, we’ll take a look at these problems to ensure you know what to expect from the most recent Toyota RAV vehicles. It’s always wise to learn as much as you can about concerns regarding the vehicle you plan to buy. That’s why you should also check the Vehicle History.
Transmission Problems
There are a number of concerns about the 2019 RAV transmission. Many reports from owners are that the vehicle hesitates when the driver depresses the gas pedal at a full stop. Then, it lurches forward but does so at a slower speed. This can create an increased risk of an accident occurring.
Other drivers have reported difficulty with shifting or hearing a sound when they shift the gears in the vehicle. A few owners noted the transmission seems to slip.
Engine Problems
Some drivers have noted problems with the engine in the 2019 RAV. This includes excessive oil consumption without an explanation or ability to find a leak. Some people also reported smelling oil or plastic burning while operating their vehicle.
Another concern that more consumers reported was related to the engine being very loud. This could be due to its location or due to the transmission problems that were already noted.
These drivers do not report any complications coming from the engine due to the sound. However, they believe it is a very loud sound, especially when the vehicle is accelerating.
Side Mirror Problems
The Toyota RAV for 2019 has some noted exterior concerns buyers should know about before purchasing. Owners have complained about a distorted side mirror or, in some cases, the side mirror vibrating or rattling.
The most common claim is about the side mirror being distorted, which makes it hard for the owner to use it accurately. Some noted that the mirror is not flat or does not fit properly into the mirror structure. This can cause eye strain.
Inaccurate Fuel Readings
One of the most common Toyota Rav4 problems with the 2019 model relates to inaccurate fuel readings. Several owners noted that they are unable to know exactly how much fuel they have in their vehicle because the display is not accurate.
Some owners report the vehicle does not ever display a full tank above the ¾ full mark. The Toyota dealerships have noted that this is a known issue, but they do not have a fix for it currently.
Drivers worry about knowing how much fuel is in their vehicle at any given time. They note that the vehicle could stall out while they are driving and increase the risk for an accident.
Brakes Making a Grinding Sound
Some owners of the Toyota RAV for the 2018 model year reported their brakes making a grinding sound. This can happen to any vehicle if the brakes are worn out or not properly maintained.
However, these owners report the problems occurred in their vehicles after just replacing the brakes or when the vehicle is brand new with under 1,000 miles on it.
Dealerships reported they could not duplicate the sound and, therefore, could not make repairs. They did check the brakes and did not find repair needs in some vehicles.
Other drivers noted the brakes were replaced and the problem stopped, yet this had to be done well before the life expectancy of the brakes.
Pulls to One Side
Some consumers have reported problems related to the vehicle pulling to one side. In normal conditions when this happens, it may be due to the vehicle needing a tire alignment. However, some consumers report that this was done and did not fix the problem.
It tends to occur when drivers are operating their vehicles at over 55 miles per hour, such as on a highway. Drivers report it pulls slightly to one side or the other (some report left, others right).
Several owners report this problem is not one that is understood by technicians. They noted that techs tend to be unable to make repairs that make a significant difference.
Knocking Noise When Turning
Some owners of the Toyota RAV reported a knocking sound coming from the engine. What makes this sound unique is that it tends to happen when the driver is turning. They approach a light or stop sign.
They stop fully, then turn the vehicle, to cause the sound. This happens in newer vehicles.
Technicians had a hard time duplicating this problem occurring. The reports relate to the 2017 Toyota RAV vehicle.
Toyota RAV Problems: Still Worth Buying
All drivers should take the time to learn the ins and outs of the vehicle they plan to own and drive. A part of that is learning about the problems associated with it and then determining if an investment is a good idea.
It’s wise to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website as a starting point. Use the car’s VIN to get the most accurate information about the recalls and consumer complaints affecting it. Then, contact Toyota with any concerns that you have.
If you are buying a pre-owned Toyota RAV, be sure to enter the make, model, and year into the site. That way, you can learn about all consumer complaints before making a purchase.
