2007 Toyota RAV4

The 2007 Toyota RAV4 is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability and practicality. Engine options include a 2.4L Inline-4 producing 166 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 generating 269 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic for the 2.4L engine and a 5-speed automatic for the 3.5L engine. Owners often appreciate the RAV4’s spacious interior, smooth ride, and good fuel economy. Common dislikes include some dated interior styling and potential for specific mechanical issues.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2007 RAV4s with the 2.4L engine experienced excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored. Symptoms included the need to add oil frequently, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine knocking.
  • Solution: Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for this issue. The most common fix was to replace the piston rings with updated ones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, potentially dripping onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (U241E)

No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (U151E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported harsh or jerky shifting, especially between certain gears. This could be due to wear and tear on the transmission’s internal components or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Fluid flush may help in minor cases. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear springs weaken over time, leading to a noticeable sag in the rear suspension. This can affect ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to operate reliably, sometimes only working intermittently or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illuminates, horn stops working, and/or steering wheel controls malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Handle Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the rear hatch handle, making it difficult to open or close the hatch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear hatch handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates, due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard is costly. Many owners opt for a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Toyota RAV4 generally offers good reliability, but some common issues exist. The 2.4L engine’s oil consumption issue is a concern, as it can be costly to repair. The 5-speed automatic transmission can have harsh shifting problems. Suspension sagging, electrical problems with door locks and the clock spring, and corrosion on the rear hatch handle are also issues to be aware of. Dashboard cracking is a cosmetic problem. Overall, many of these issues are age-related and can be addressed with proper maintenance and repairs.