2019 Toyota RAV4

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter inline-4 producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid powertrain option, combining the 2.5-liter engine with electric motors, is also available. People generally like the RAV4 for its practicality, safety features, and resale value. Common dislikes include the somewhat noisy engine and a less-than-luxurious interior compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. This may manifest as low oil level warnings or visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Toyota released a technical service bulletin (TSB) addressing this issue. The recommended solution might involve replacing the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine hesitation/stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine hesitation or stalling, particularly at low speeds or during acceleration.
  • Solution: This issue has been attributed to various factors, including fuel system problems or sensor malfunctions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Hybrid (2.5L Inline-4 with Electric Motors)

• Decreased Hybrid Battery Life
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners of the hybrid version of the 2019 RAV4 have reported decreased hybrid battery life. Over time, the capacity of the hybrid battery can diminish, leading to reduced fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: The solution usually involves replacing the hybrid battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can feel like a lurch or hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. More severe cases may require replacing valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Some cases are related to shocks and struts or sway bar bushings. Replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dead Battery
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the 12V battery dying prematurely, requiring frequent jump starts or replacement. This issue has been associated with the infotainment system or other electrical components not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the parasitic draw. Replacement of the battery and addressing the underlying cause of the drain is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, lag, or experience glitches. The touchscreen may become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some of these issues. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Automatic Emergency Braking Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Automatic emergency braking may malfunction and apply for no reason.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the emergency braking sensor may fix the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: Some vehicles may be included in safety recall 20TA13.
    • Some 2019-2020 RAV4 vehicles had a problem with the assembly of the brake booster. The brake booster power supply may have been disconnected during assembly.

Exterior

• Moonroof Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin from the moonroof, especially during heavy rain. This can damage the interior and lead to mold growth.
  • Solution: Cleaning the moonroof drain tubes. Some cases may require replacing the moonroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement is the only real solution, but it is expensive. Owners may instead opt for dashboard covers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Toyota RAV4, while generally reliable, has some common issues. The excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine and rough shifting in the 8-speed transmission are the most prevalent mechanical concerns. Electrical issues, particularly with the battery and infotainment system, are also reported. Moonroof leaks and dashboard cracking represent interior and exterior concerns. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. While some issues can be addressed with software updates or minor fixes, others may require component replacement, impacting the overall cost of ownership.