Tech & Auto
Common Problems Toyota RAV4 Owners Need To Watch Out For
By DREAMCHILD OBARI
Oil Consumption
Many owners of the 2006-2008 third-generation RAV4s, which had the 2.4-liter 2AZ FE engine, complained about how frequently they had to replace their oil.
Since this might be a piston problem, there's no easy way to fix this issue short of replacing the engine. If you have one of these RAV4s, check your oil regularly.
Steering
Another issue with the 2006-2008 RAV4s is strange clunking when turning the steering wheel and problems with the electric power steering, making the wheel harder to turn.
Newer RAV4s also have had steering issues. According to NHTSA, drivers of 2019-2021 RAV4s are prone to getting a "pulling" or "drifting" sensation after the car gets wet.
Transmission
The 2001-2003 RAV4s are notorious for transmission issues. The 2002 RAV4 is one of the worst models for problems with shifting, jerking transmission, and ECM failures.
More recently, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 also suffered a similar problem. Many owners have complained of the car's hesitation when they try to accelerate from a slow roll or lower gear.