2017 Toyota RAV4

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Available engine options include a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine producing 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid powertrain that combines the 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor. People generally appreciate the RAV4’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong resale value. Some common dislikes include its somewhat uninspired styling and the base engine’s adequate but not thrilling performance.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Gasoline Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. The severity varies, with some experiencing minimal consumption and others significant.
  • Solution: Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for this issue, and in some cases, the fix involves replacing the piston rings. In severe cases, the engine short block may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced engine misfires, which can cause the engine to run rough, stumble, or hesitate. This may be accompanied by the check engine light illuminating. Faulty ignition coils or spark plugs can be the culprit.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s) and/or spark plugs typically resolves the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid Engine

• Inverter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some hybrid models have reported inverter failures which can cause a sudden loss of power or the vehicle not starting. Warning lights illuminate on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty inverter is the only solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh or jerky shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds. This can be more noticeable in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush may alleviate the issue in some cases. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn sway bar links or bushings, or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Entune Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Entune infotainment system can be prone to freezing, crashing, or experiencing connectivity problems with smartphones.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some of these issues. In some cases, replacing the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,000+ (for head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the backup camera. The screen may display a black screen or a distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera’s wiring and connections. If the wiring is intact, the camera unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may become stuck in one position.
  • Solution: Check the liftgate struts, motor, and sensors. Replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: In some warmer climates, cracks can appear on the dashboard surface, particularly in direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like all vehicles, it has some common issues. The most concerning issues relate to the engine (excessive oil consumption, inverter failure in hybrid models) and transmission (harsh shifting), as these can be expensive to repair. Electrical issues with the Entune system and backup camera can be annoying but are typically less costly to address. Suspension noise and automatic liftgate malfunctions are other areas to be aware of. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any used RAV4 before purchasing, paying close attention to the engine’s oil level and transmission performance.