2011 Toyota RAV4

The 2011 Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability and practicality. It came with two engine options: a 2.5-liter inline-4 producing 179 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 producing 269 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the RAV4’s spacious interior, fuel efficiency (especially with the 4-cylinder), and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include the dated 4-speed automatic transmission and somewhat bland styling.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil more frequently between oil changes. Symptoms can include low oil level warnings and visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: In some cases, Toyota has addressed this issue by replacing the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly, $2,000+ depending on the extent of the repair and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Both Engine Options (4-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between gears. Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse has also been noted.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can alleviate the problem. More severe cases might require valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $150 - $300; Valve Body Replacement $800 - $1500; Transmission Rebuild $2,500 - $4,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension can sag over time, particularly if the vehicle is frequently used for towing or carrying heavy loads. This can result in a decreased ride height and a bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shocks and springs can restore the proper ride height and improve ride quality.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the power door lock actuators can cause the doors to not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates, is a known issue.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Cover $50 - $200; Dashboard Replacement $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Toyota RAV4 is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of some potential issues. The most common issues are related to excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L inline-4 engine and the 4-speed automatic transmission exhibiting harsh shifting. The dashboard cracking issue can be a cosmetic concern. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, with engine-related problems being the most expensive to address.