Known Faults Database

Toyota RAV4 problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Toyota RAV4, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 2 known faults for this model, 2 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Toyota RAV4 reliable?

The Toyota RAV4 has 2 known faults in our database, 2 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (electrolytic corrosion around cylinder liners causing head gasket seal failure) and bodywork (rot at the back of the sills inside the rear arches). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Toyota RAV4 years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

Years and engines with a serious known fault

  • 2006 to 2010, 2.2 D-4D (AD Engine, 2AD-FTV / 2AD-FHV D-CAT), including the Corolla Verso 2.2 D-4D; not the Corolla Verso's belt-driven 2.0 D-4D (1CD-FTV): electrolytic corrosion around cylinder liners causing head gasket seal failure
  • 1994 to 2005, All: rot at the back of the sills inside the rear arches

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Electrolytic corrosion around cylinder liners causing head gasket seal failure

Rough guide
£1500-3000

Typical symptoms

  • coolant loss
  • overheating
  • heater blowing cold air
  • mayonnaise-like sludge under oil cap

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.2 D-4D (AD Engine, 2AD-FTV / 2AD-FHV D-CAT), including the Corolla Verso 2.2 D-4D; not the Corolla Verso's belt-driven 2.0 D-4D (1CD-FTV)
Years:
2006-2010
Typical mileage:
60000-120000 miles
1 more owner report backs this up
  • July 2013More injector and cylinder head problems were reported on a 2006 RAV4 2.2 D-4D.
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Bodywork/ChassisHigh severity💬 Owner reports

Rot at the back of the sills inside the rear arches, the bottom corner of each rear arch where it meets the sill, and the suspension mounting areas and front subframe underneath. The mechanicals routinely outlast the body, and because no proper sill repair panels are available in the UK the welding is fabrication work, which makes a rotten example uneconomic quickly. Corrosion in the sill/suspension mounting area is an MOT failure.

Rough guide
£300-1500

Typical symptoms

  • bubbling at the rear arch corner where it meets the sill
  • crusty metal at the back of the sill, seen from inside the rear arch
  • MOT advisories for corrosion of the underside, subframe or suspension mounting areas
  • welded patches along the sills

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All
Years:
1994-2005
Typically appears:
15-30 years
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What owners report

26 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Gearbox and clutch · July 2022A 2016 RAV4 suffered gearbox failure at 45,413 miles, with burnt transmission fluid, costing £8,700 for a new CVT.
  • Electrics · October 2019A 2019 RAV4's dealer-installed sat-nav had a faulty GPS antenna connection and gave poor routing advice.
  • Engine · September 2019A 2014 Toyota RAV4 2.2 diesel was reported to use one litre of oil every six months, likely due to failing valve stem seals.
  • Interior · June 2019A new 2019 RAV4 has a flimsy, ill-fitting fake leather cover on the steering column, replacing a protective hard plastic.
  • Electrics · May 2019A 2016 Toyota RAV4 failed to start because it was not driven far enough to recharge the 12v auxiliary battery.
  • Engine · February 2019A 2016 RAV4 2.0i Valvematic Multidrive S experienced a flat spot going uphill when the 'Eco' button was active.
  • Electrics · February 2018A 2010 RAV4 with push-button start had a key synchronisation problem, requiring a new receiver at £500.
  • Engine · June 2017Intermittent power loss was reported from a RAV4 2.0i Valvematic Multidrive S 4WD when pulling out of parking spaces.
  • Fuel system · April 2017A 2006-2012 RAV4 experienced a fuel leak due to corrosion of its fuel filler pipe, caused by thin steel and debris accumulation.
  • Engine · April 2016A RAV4 2.2D-CAT Icon automatic cut out four times between 20,000 and 21,000 miles, with no diagnostic fault found.
  • Exhaust · March 2016A RAV4 diesel used for towing and short urban runs needed a replacement DPF, DMF, and clutch.
  • Exhaust · February 2016A 2014 RAV4 at 18,000 miles had DPF problems, leading to a sudden power drop and a £1,282 quote for a new DPF.
  • Brakes · September 2015Replacing the parking brake cables on a RAV4 requires removing the fuel tank to gain proper access.
  • Electrics · August 2015Toyota advises a free software upgrade for current sat-navs with version 2.8.4al if customers report nonsense directions.
  • Electrics · July 2015A one-year-old RAV4's sat-nav had deplorably poor ability to navigate by the fastest routes or to proposed destinations in France.
  • Suspension and steering · June 2015A 2009 RAV4 SR180 at 52,000 miles developed a knocking noise when turning the steering slowly.
  • Exhaust · June 2015The DPF of a 2010 RAV4 D-4D SR 150 automatic blocked with ash at 67,000 miles, costing £1,800 to replace.
  • Fuel system · February 2015A 2010 RAV4 2.0i Valvematic Multidrive S was reported to achieve only 26.7mpg.
  • Gearbox and clutch · April 2014A 2004 RAV4 D-4D required its third replacement clutch and dual mass flywheel by 80,000 miles.
  • General · October 2013Ordered spacesaver spare tyres were not always supplied with new cars, indicating a production problem.
  • Fuel system · March 2013A RAV4 2.2 D-4D with warning lights suggesting a fuel leak may have a faulty suction control valve.
  • Cooling · March 2013A reader reported a series of water pump failures on this model.
  • Fuel system · January 2013The pressed steel fuel tanks on this model are susceptible to corrosion and can eventually rust through.
  • Fuel system · December 2012A 2005 RAV4 2.0 D-4D at 57,000 miles had four replacement suction control valves and a new clutch.
  • Engine · January 2012Problems with DPF regeneration on 2.2 litre diesels can lead to overfuelling, damaging piston rings and bores.
  • Gearbox and clutch · November 2011A 2000-2003 4-speed automatic gearbox developed an ECU fault, leading to rough gear changes and eventual transmission damage.

What owners like

25 notes
  • September 2018A 2006 RAV4 D-4D achieved over 50mpg for 10 years and 120,000 miles, proving reliable.
  • March 2018A 2006 petrol RAV4 at 55,000 miles had minor issues including a faulty door switch and rusted exhaust.
  • February 2018A 2007 RAV4 2.0i petrol reached 160,000 miles with minimal trouble, averaging 37mpg in mixed driving.
  • In June 2001, Toyota was ranked as Britain's third most claim-free used car brand by Motor Warranty Direct.
  • Toyota, alongside BMW and Ford, experienced very few breakdowns attended by German ADAC during 2001, indicating good overall reliability.
  • This model achieved the top position for dependability in the 2002 Auto Express survey.
  • It was joint second top make in the 2002 'Which?' reliability survey for cars from 2000 to 2002.
  • Models from 1995 to 1997 had the fewest breakdowns and faults, rated 'Worth Considering' in a 2003 survey.
  • This model was joint second top make in the 2002 'Which?' reliability survey for cars from 2000 to 2002.
  • This model was rated the best 4x4 and seventh overall in a 2003 customer satisfaction survey by What Car? and J.D. Power.
  • This model achieved a 98% breakdown-free rating in the 2003 Which survey.
  • It had the fewest breakdowns, problems, and faults, rated 'Worth Considering' in the 2003 Which survey.
  • The RAV4 ranked 21st out of 137 vehicles in the 2003 Top Gear survey.
  • The car achieved 16th place in a 2005 JD Power and What Car? study of 23,000 vehicles, scoring 82.5% satisfaction.
  • This model was rated top 4x4 and seventh overall in the 2003 What Car? J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Survey.
  • The RAV4 was rated top 4x4 and seventh overall in the 2003 What Car? J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Survey.
  • This model achieved a 4-star Euro NCAP adult safety rating, 3-star pedestrian, and 4-star child safety.
  • The RAV4 was voted the most reliable used SUV in the 2013 'Which?' survey.
  • This model achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP Crash Safety Rating, with 89% adult and 82% child protection.
  • The RAV4 comes with a five-year factory warranty for peace of mind.
  • Every Toyota Hybrid vehicle includes a 5-year, 100,000-mile warranty, extendable to 15 years on the battery.
  • The hybrid engine offers low running costs, making it an economical choice.
  • The RAV4 features a robust and spacious interior, providing comfort for occupants.
  • This model achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with 93% adult and 87% child protection.
  • The RAV4 hybrid can tow 800kg for the FWD version and 1,650kg for the 4WD version.

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

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Toyota RAV4 recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 21 DVSA recalls for the RAV4, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ December 2025Cars built October 2022 to June 2025

Parking Assist ECU reprogram on multiple models

For certain vehicles equipped with a Parking Assist ECU a component of the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system that displays the rear view image the software may cause the rear view image to freeze or not display

Put right by: Reprogram the parking assist ECU.

DVSA R/2025/4668,802 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2025Cars built January 2022 to February 2025

Combination Meter Reprogramming on Multiple Models

For certain vehicles equipped with the combination meter system (where various information is displayed) that due to an improper programming of the combination meter unnecessarily repetitive data is written to a memory device. This may cause the memory device to deteriorate and the monitor to not display during the meter at start up and remain in this state permanently.

Put right by: Reprogram or replace the combination meter.

DVSA R/2025/27012,545 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2023Cars built January 2023 to July 2023

On affected vehicles there is a possibility that the DCM may not complete the shutdown process within a specific period of time when the ignition is turned off causing the DCM to not restart at the next ignition cycle and making the e-Call function unavailable. As a result the vehicles do not comply with relevant regulations.

On affected vehicles there is a possibility that the DCM may not complete the shutdown process within a specific period of time when the ignition is turned off causing the DCM to not restart at the next ignition cycle and making the e-Call function unavailable. As a result the vehicles do not comply with relevant regulations.

Put right by: The software of the DCM (Data Communication Module) will be updated via an Over the Air (OTA) wireless update.

DVSA R/2023/27927,327 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2023Cars built July 2020 to May 2022

DC-DC converter may have been damaged during production

The plug-in hybrid system of the subject vehicles includes a DC-DC converter that reduces the voltage of the electricity from the Hybrid Vehicle (HV) battery in order to charge the vehicles 12V battery. Contained within the DC-DC converter is a current rectifying module that is installed on the circuit board. Some of these modules may have been damaged during production by the supplier and could fail so creating a short circuit. This allows current from the 12V battery to continue to flow through the module and the module will generate heat. Under certain conditions if excessive heat is generated components within and outside the DC-DC converter could sustain thermal damage increasing the risk of a vehicle fire.

Put right by: Replace the DC-DC Converter.

DVSA R/2023/2063,422 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2023Cars built November 2019 to June 2021

The Hybrid Vehicle Control ECU (HEV-ECU) contains software that could cause the hybrid system to shut down after driving continuously in EV mode in cold temperatures and when the accelerator pedal is rapidly pressed to further accelerate the vehicle. This could result in a loss of drive and an increased risk of a crash.

The Hybrid Vehicle Control ECU (HEV-ECU) contains software that could cause the hybrid system to shut down after driving continuously in EV mode in cold temperatures and when the accelerator pedal is rapidly pressed to further accelerate the vehicle. This could result in a loss of drive and an increased risk of a crash.

Put right by: Reprogram the HEV ECU.

DVSA R/2023/040686 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2023Cars built August 2003 to September 2005

The force-limiter in the seat belt retractor may not operate as designed

The subject front seat belt assemblies are service parts designed for certain Toyota and Lexus models containing a seat belt retractor with a force-limiter function using a torsion shaft which helps control the loads on the occupant applied by the shoulder belt after the seat belt retractor locks up during a crash. During production the torsion shaft may have been manufactured incorrectly and the seat belt may not operate as designed allowing the seat belt to extend further than intended after locking. This can increase the amount of forward displacement of the occupant increasing the risk of an injury in the event of a crash severe enough to activate a force-limiter.

Put right by: To inspect and replace the seat belt assembly if required.

DVSA R/2022/3262 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2021Cars built July 2020 to March 2021

THE EMERGENCY CALLING SYSTEM (eCall) MAY NOT FUNCTION WHEN REQUIRED

The emergency calling system (eCall) may not function when required.

Put right by: Inspect the emergency calling system and update DCM software. If the DCM is found to be damaged replace it with updated software.

DVSA R/2021/31553,150 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2021Cars built June 2015 to May 2018

There is a possibility that the exhaust gas recirculation cooler could develop an internal coolant leak

A possibility that the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler could develop an internal coolant leak

Put right by: Replace the EGR cooler in all involved vehicles and if necessary replace the inlet manifold.

DVSA R/2021/10424,241 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2020Cars built June 1997 to August 1999

Takata airbag inflator may rupture on deployment

The absorption of moisture into the drivers airbag propellant could lead to slow deployment or inflator rupture

Put right by: Replace the airbag inflator or the airbag assembly. Toyota is still preparing for the development and production of the remedy parts

DVSA R/2020/01937,586 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2020Cars built September 2019 to October 2019

The front lower suspension arms may have cracks on some portions of its surface

The front lower suspension arms may have cracks on some portions of its surface.

Put right by: Replace the front lower arms of affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2020/142791 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2019Cars built April 2019 to June 2019

Brake booster pump may stop working

An electrical connection within the motor may cause the brake booster pump to stop operating

Put right by: Inspect and replace the brake booster pump assembly if necessary.

DVSA R/2019/2482,146 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2019Cars built October 2018 to April 2019

The emergency calling system may not be enabled

There is a possibility that the emergency calling system has not been activated.

Put right by: Inspect and activate the emergency call system if necessary.

DVSA R/2019/1223,484 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2019Cars built October 2015 to December 2017

Incorrect tightening torque was possibly applied during previous injector removal or replacement

An incorrect tightening torque was applied at the moment of injector re-installation.

Put right by: Check the injector clamp bolt torque and replace the parts if necessary.

DVSA R/2018/378321 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2018Cars built October 2015 to April 2017

Possibility of a fuel leak

In certain specific conditions fuel may leak from the low pressure line due to a compatibility issue between the fuel filter and fuel line connector.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the fuel line connector and fit an improved filter.

DVSA R/2017/3284,818 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2018Cars built August 2016 to September 2016

Bolts on the exhaust side of the turbocharger assembly may be incorrectly tightened

Affected vehicles have a 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine. There is a possibility that the bolts on the exhaust-side of the turbocharger assembly may not have been correctly tightened during manufacture.

Put right by: On affected vehicles check bolts. Where necessary replace the turbocharger.

DVSA R/2017/329442 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2016Cars built October 2005 to November 2012

Seatbelt may not perform as designed

In the event of a high-speed collision principally in the frontal direction there is a possibility that the lap belt webbing on the outboard seats of the second row could contact a portion of the seat cushion frame become cut and separate.

Put right by: On affected vehicles fit a plastic protector to the seat frame.

DVSA R/2016/024147,045 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2015Cars built June 2005 to December 2010

Risk of fire

Affected vehicles are equipped with a drivers side Power Window Master Switch (PWMS) containing sliding electrical contact modules. These modules may not have been incorrectly coated during the manufacturing process. This may cause a short circuit which could cause the switch to overheat and melt

Put right by: Inspect switch and apply coating. If switch indicates signs of malfunction it should be replaced.

DVSA R/2015/206123,306 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2015Cars built July 2003 to December 2005

Driver side airbag may rupture

Subject vehicles are fitted with driver's air bag assemblies with single stage inflators. There is an increases potential for moisture ingress which could make the inflator more susceptible to rupture during deployment. Fragments may injure occupants.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the airbag.

DVSA R/2015/095
🏛️ April 2014Cars built November 2005 to November 2008

Drivers airbag may not function

The steering column assembly in affected vehicles contains electrical connections to the driver's air bag module housed in a spiral cable assembly which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer the FFC could contact a small point of the retainer and become damaged when the steering wheel is turned. In FFC's with seven channel circuits this damage could occur to a circuit on the FFC that provides connectivity to the driver's air bag module. If connectivity is lost the air bag warning light will illuminate. In addition the driver's air bag could become deactivated causing it not to deploy in the event of a crash. This could increase the risk of injury to the driver.

Put right by: Replace spiral cables with new ones

DVSA R/2014/04878,630 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2012Cars built September 2006 to December 2008

Fire may occur

It is possible moisture or other fluids may enter the drivers window and contaminate the main power window switch. If this occurs and the switch is damaged it could overheat and cause it to melt and/or smoke. If this situation is not identified it could result in a vehicle fire.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles and check the switch. If the switch is not damaged a waterproof cover will be fitted. If the switch is damaged it will be replaced and a waterproof cover will be fitted.

DVSA R/2012/118138,049 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2012Cars built August 2005 to October 2010

Rear suspension arm may separate

If the rear suspension arm is adjusted as part of a wheel alignment or other repairs whilst in service it is possible that backlash can occur. This can allow corrosion to develop and cause the threads to deteriorate. Ultimately this could result in failure of the arm with a resultant loss of control of the vehicle.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles to check the torque on the arm. Where necessary the arm will be replaced.

DVSA R/2012/085263,452 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Toyota RAV4 timing chain, and service intervals

A timing chain has no change interval, which is not the same as lasting for ever. Listen for it on a used RAV4, and check the oil has been changed on time. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing chainChain
2.0 D-4D, 2.0 D4D, 1AD-FTV
No fixed replacement interval

The 2.0 D-4D (1AD-FTV) is chain driven with no scheduled replacement, and the chain itself is rarely the failure point. This engine family's real reputation is head gasket failure and progressive oil consumption; Toyota ran piston-replacement campaigns that did not fully cure the oil burning. On an oil-burning example check the level religiously, because a low sump is exactly what starves the chain tensioner. Injector coking is also documented.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: October 2026

Toyota RAV4 buying questions

What should I check when viewing a used Toyota RAV4?

Ask the seller about the engine and bodywork faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for coolant loss and bubbling at the rear arch corner where it meets the sill. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against its known faults before you travel. Check a Toyota RAV4 advert →

Are there any recalls on the Toyota RAV4?

The DVSA lists 21 safety recalls for the Toyota RAV4 issued between 2012 and 2025. The most recent, from December 2025, is "Parking Assist ECU reprogram on multiple models". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Toyota RAV4?

Owners report 42.9 mpg on average across the Toyota RAV4 engines with data, about 82% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 2,010 owner submissions. Toyota RAV4 Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Toyota RAV4 right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Toyota RAV4 fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Toyota RAV4 owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Toyota RAV4 goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

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