2001 Toyota RAV4

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Power train191
2. Electrical system60
3. Engine and engine cooling28
4. Vehicle speed control22
5. Service brakes, hydraulic21
6. Air bags13
7. Unknown or other12
8. Visibility9
9. Engine9
10. Electronic stability control (esc)8

Latest complaints

• Jan 30, 2024TX
  Air bags

  My Rav4 is 23 years old and has 76K miles on it. Does it have Takata airbags? If so, I want them replaced. I plan on driving my car until I die and I don't want the airbags to take me out. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

• Nov 5, 2023OH
  Fuel/propulsion system · Service brakes · Suspension
  2001 Toyota Rav4 was sold at Auction, to a used car dealership. I purchased this car from the used car dealer on August 5, 2023. Unfortunately, the dealer tampered with the brakes. I witnessed their mechanic working on the rear brake system in person on August 4, 2023. The owner told me that…

  2001 Toyota Rav4 was sold at Auction, to a used car dealership. I purchased this car from the used car dealer on August 5, 2023. Unfortunately, the dealer tampered with the brakes. I witnessed their mechanic working on the rear brake system in person on August 4, 2023. The owner told me that because there was a noise coming from the rear, they were "fixing it". Upon buying this car and driving it to a gas station, filled it up, much to my horror, gas spilled out. The gas tank has a leak in it. Also, upon driving it home the engine warning light suddenly illuminated. I promptly brought it to a Toyota Dealership in Wooster, Ohio and requested a complete examination. I have their full report, and they have determined this car to be unsafe to drive. The brakes had been adjusted when in fact, the brakes and brake lines need to be replaced, this was the used car dealer at fault. I feel the used car dealership bought car at auction and was unaware of the gas tank leak and the bearing plates being fragile, the engine cradle could break at any given moment, causing the engine to fall out. The car was purchased at and maintained by an Akron Toyota Dealership since it was brand new in 2001. After 23 years why did this dealership allow this car to be released into the general public? Frame Damage so bad, the bearing plates that hold the engine up are beyond fragile, the cradle that holds the engine integrity is grossly compromised, and the gas tank has a hole in it. Bad brakes + leaking gas tank. One spark and = Ka Boom. I would be dead. So many things wrong in this situation. Personally, my physical and emotional health suffered. I had chronic diarrhea, headaches, and went to the Dr several times. Please let me know how this matter should be resolved. I am upset and financially compromised all from this car. Documentation available.

• Mar 7, 2021AL125,000 mi
  Electrical system · Power train

  My2001rav4 with 125000 started jumping into gear also the rpm revs up but vechicle losses power very dangerous on highway transmission slipping and jerk into gears

• Dec 7, 2019NJ
  Suspension

  The straps that hold the gas tank up rotted out and off.

• Mar 9, 2019CA111,219 miCrash1 injury
  Engine · Power train · Vehicle speed control
  My 2001 silver toyota rav 4 had a sudden unintended acceleration problem when I was decelerating to a complete stop at an already congested intersection with traffic lights. I was applying brake pressure from 20 mph, down to 15,10,5, down to 2 mph, coming to a complete stop, my rav 4 engine…

  My 2001 silver toyota rav 4 had a sudden unintended acceleration problem when I was decelerating to a complete stop at an already congested intersection with traffic lights. I was applying brake pressure from 20 mph, down to 15,10,5, down to 2 mph, coming to a complete stop, my rav 4 engine suddenly started to rev-up/race wildly and very loud in a matter of 3, or 4-5 seconds (the engine/rpm sounded similar one would hear when you would be accelerating entering a freeway via the entrance ramp). My rav 4 shot forward so fast like it was on some rocket launching pad. my foot was on my brake pedal almost to the car floor and I could not stop the car from moving into the back - and rear ending the car in front of me which was about 10-15 feet in front of me, that was stopped waiting for the light to turn green at the already congested stop light intersection. Damage was done to the rear end of the SUV door hatch and the attached tire mounted on the back of the SUV in front of me. Damage on my rav 4 was car hood folding back and up and my front upper and lower section of my bumper and plastic grill area. I immediately reported the unintended acceleration problem to t he toyota motor company the next day and they sent a 3RD party engineering analysis to examine my car. The investigator spent 4-5 hours examining my car and couldn't elaborate his findings but has submitted the information he was able to retrieve, back to the toyota motor co. Apparently, my 2001 rav 4 IS a first generation model/version and didn't have the elaborate detailed edr devices installed in them, however some other device/devices, could possibly be retrieved? The final report by toyota taken by the 3RD party field engineering analysis will take 3-4 weeks from this report I have posted. a police report was filed (please see the scanned info- for further investigation).

• Feb 22, 2019CA111,219 miCrash1 injury
  Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Structure › Body
  My 2001 rav 4 rear ended a car in front of me, and it was due to a major unintended acceleration of the engine. I am an experienced driver with no prior accidents and my foot was not on the wrong pedal when I was slowing down - applying my brake pedal when I was approaching a bumper to bumper…

  My 2001 rav 4 rear ended a car in front of me, and it was due to a major unintended acceleration of the engine. I am an experienced driver with no prior accidents and my foot was not on the wrong pedal when I was slowing down - applying my brake pedal when I was approaching a bumper to bumper congested intersection (around 5PM). all of a sudden as I applied more pressure on my brake pedal de-accelerating from 20 mph down to 10 then to 5 mph to 2 mph, my 2001 rav 4 engine suddenly accelerated (the engine started to race and the rpm was going crazy making a loud engine sound) I was only 10-15 feet from the car in front, and the immediate acceleration of the engine (it sounded like it was rev ving around 80 mph in less then 2-3 seconds) suddenly shot my car forward (like a rocket)! the engine had full possession of my acceleration. I immediately applied more pressure to the brake pedal but the force of the intense unexplained acceleration wouldn't allow me to completely stop my car! my rav 4 rear ended the back of the car in front of me, and the engine was still racing, pushing the car in front of me,when it finally stopped it's own acceleration and I had time to turn off the motor. The engine had full acceleration possession of my rav 4! I signed and sent back a toyota consent form they sent me to examine the edr and other recording devices to further investigate, explain what the hell went wrong with the ecu or whatever computer system IS in the rav 4. I trust toyota will pay for the damage that my rav 4 did to the other car as well as mine. this could have been worse and could have caused a death and/or massive injury to others and myself as well as major property damage. I want full reimbursement of my original full purchase price I had paid for this 2001 rav 4 I had bought back in 2001-2002 for this defective rav 4.

• Mar 5, 2018CA120,000 mi
  Power train
  My rav 4 2001 has about 140,000 miles on it and has developed a serious problem. To clarify, a massive acceleration problem IS occurring when I've been driving the car for 15 to 20 minutes, then suddenly - while I'm at a stop light, the suv's engine races wildly loud like what you hear at the indy…

  My rav 4 2001 has about 140,000 miles on it and has developed a serious problem. To clarify, a massive acceleration problem IS occurring when I've been driving the car for 15 to 20 minutes, then suddenly - while I'm at a stop light, the suv's engine races wildly loud like what you hear at the indy 500... It jerked and felt like it internally controlled my accelerator foot pad! I had to apply a massive amount of pressure on the brake pad before I had a chance to quickly shift my car into park to prevent running over pedestrians and hitting cars in front of me at the stop light! my rav 4 engine was still racing loudly wanting to shoot forward like a rocket! I have had the faulty ecm replacement recall done when toyota issued a warning to have the RAV4 ecu unit replaced several years ago. now I'm experiencing this engine racing/acceleration problem with my rav 4. will my local toyota service center charge me for the parts and the labor to fix this defective mechanical problem?

• Dec 20, 2017IL103,034 mi
  Power train

  The RAV4 would not shift. The transmission needed to be replaced

• Aug 15, 2017WA137,255 mi
  Unknown or other

  Ecm unit went bad causing damage to my transmission

• Jul 2, 2017CA
  Power train

  The ecm on my 2001 RAV4 was calibrated in 2008 by a local dealer. Under recall 601. In 2008 the car had just over 63000 miles. It now has 124000 and the transmission IS hard shifting again.

• Jun 12, 2017CA68,000 mi
  Unknown or other

  Driving car and it started jerking and then the check engine light went on tester showed it was related to ecm and transmission

• Apr 28, 2017LA150,000 mi
  Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other

  The car started to have shifting problems.

• Apr 20, 2017CA115,000 mi
  Power train

  The automatic transmission IS shifting irratically, sometimes it will take off slowly until the gear engages. Sometimes there IS a clunking sound as the transmission shifts gears.

• Apr 6, 2017CA135,000 mi
  Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Power train

  My wife was driving car and it started doing strange changes with the transmission, such as slipping between gear changes and jerking movements. at one point, she told me getting on freway on ramp was a hazard, because of irratic behavior of transmission!!

• Nov 5, 2016CA63,192 mi
  Power train · Vehicle speed control
  My 2001 toyota RAV4 has 63192 miles on it. it began exhibiting transmission/acceleration problems yesterday while driving my granddaughter from school, about a 2 mile round trip on city street traveling approximately 35-40mph. the car refused to pick up speed and began to jerk due to…

  My 2001 toyota RAV4 has 63192 miles on it. it began exhibiting transmission/acceleration problems yesterday while driving my granddaughter from school, about a 2 mile round trip on city street traveling approximately 35-40mph. the car refused to pick up speed and began to jerk due to shifting/missing gears, all by its self. the car has an automatic transmission so should not exhibit these problems. I found out today that this was a known problem to toyota and there was a voluntary recall that I had no knowledge off. I contacted toyota and they refuse to assist with rectifying this problem saying the date for the recall has passed, but I was never notified of said recall to begin with. the problem just started and although the vehicle IS 15 yo, it has always been immaculately maintained and serviced and only has 63K miles on it so should not be having any transmission issues. I want toyota to rectify this problem as it IS a problem with their module and not due to the age or condition of the car. there have been many reports of this same issue with this exact vehicle year and model and toyota has knowledge of these issues. the car IS not safe to drive and this should be addressed by toyota and fixed immediately. In an article found online, toyota admitted to this manufacturer defect and despite the defect, toyota did not offer any special warranty coverage. Instead, the bulletin said repairs would be covered under the federal emissions warranty of 80,000 miles or eight years from the time the vehicle was sold. but this IS not an issue with the age of the vehicle and it has less than 80K miles on it, and it IS due to a manufacturer defect which should be covered.

• Sep 19, 2016WA
  Unknown or other
  Aquired my 2001 toyota RAV4 about 4 years ago. And now I am having the same issues with the ecm as the others. In fact my toyota IS currently in a automobile repair shop. After nearly 3 weeks the shop finally determined the ecm needs replacing and possibly transmission also. The repair shop…

  Aquired my 2001 toyota RAV4 about 4 years ago. And now I am having the same issues with the ecm as the others. In fact my toyota IS currently in a automobile repair shop. After nearly 3 weeks the shop finally determined the ecm needs replacing and possibly transmission also. The repair shop informed me that toyota issued a recall for the ecm but the recall has since expired. With this imformation I called toyota motor corp and was told there IS nothing they can do to assist people that are purchasing these cars that have not been taken care of. This issues I am dealing with include the transmission slipping and revving higher, or the loss of power when going from a complete stop. Toyota helped the owners, with an " extended warranty" 10 years / 150000 miles. That IS all good but the warranty was from the first date. Basically from day 1. That IS not fair to the people who purchase these cars second hand with no knowledge of the issues. This IS a huge safety issue and could case an accident cause you don't know when it IS going to happen. It IS my opinion that any and all recalls should not have limitations and should never expire!!! If a toyota IS "on the road" (licensing IS up to date), then it should automatically qualify for all warranted recalls!!!

• Jun 5, 2016NV
  Air bags
  Takata recall - I am the original owner of a 2001 rav 4 with 224,000 miles on it. this car IS primarily used in nevada in the reno/lake tahoe area and also in seattle wa. I am very concerned about the possibility of an exploding air bag. please advise about the safety of continuing to drive this…

  Takata recall - I am the original owner of a 2001 rav 4 with 224,000 miles on it. this car IS primarily used in nevada in the reno/lake tahoe area and also in seattle wa. I am very concerned about the possibility of an exploding air bag. please advise about the safety of continuing to drive this car and how soon the air bags can be replaced! from all I read these cars should be taken off the road immediately! please respond so I can protect my family.

• May 8, 2016TX
  Air bags

  Takata recall I drive my 2001 RAV4 that I inherited from my mother. the car IS 15 years old but only has 56,000 miles on it. I am fearful about the airbag exploding since I plan to drive this car for several more years. I want the airbag replaced.

• Apr 6, 2016HI114,000 mi
  Air bags

  Takata recall I am the original owner of. 2001 toyota RAV4 . I have lived in the state of hawaii for the last 9 years. As you might imagine the humidity IS high here . Since toyota does not appear to want to replace the airbag in my vehicle should I disconnect the airbag so it does not inflate and injure or kill me??

• Feb 4, 2016VA135,000 mi
  Electrical system · Engine · Vehicle speed control

  When I change gear or press accelerator to give gas, my car doesn't pick up race and doesn't shift the gear. It will do on its own. the engine light keeps coming turned on, even though thisngs have been replaced.

• Dec 14, 2015CA120,000 mi
  Power train

  We were almost hit at a street light. Upon accelerating our car the engine died due the transmission or malfunction of the electric control module. We were lucky if the person behind had not slammed on brakes we would have been hit. Also the car has problems with shifting while drive on freeway. We always now stay in the slow lane because we fear to pass,

• Jun 7, 2015CA61,000 mi
  Power train
  Have been experiencing harsh shifting for the last week or so but the most debilitating transmission problem occurred on 6/5/2015 while driving 35 mph. I ended up driving directly home using "low" gear because I was afraid of damaging the car further. I am the original owner of this car and…

  Have been experiencing harsh shifting for the last week or so but the most debilitating transmission problem occurred on 6/5/2015 while driving 35 mph. I ended up driving directly home using "low" gear because I was afraid of damaging the car further. I am the original owner of this car and purchased it new in 2001. 7 years after purchase, back on 3/10/2008, it was serviced by toyota under a "special service campaign" where they reprogrammed the ecm under warranty. I imagine it was for the harsh shifting problem (see t-sb-0156-10). it has obviously come back 7 years later. programming only good for 7 years?

• May 27, 2015MO102,000 mi
  Power train

  Vehicle shifts very harshly and jerks. I suspect it has something to do with the transmission and the electronic control module.

• May 14, 2015FL147,295 mi
  Power train

  TL* the contact owns a 2001 toyota RAV4. While driving approximately 40 mph, the vehicle failed to shift gears without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the ecm computer module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 147,295.

• May 13, 2015PA86,155 mi
  Electrical system · Power train

  Harsh shift between 2 and 3, probably due to ecm failing

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 11007445The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.
• 11007444To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.
• 11007443Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
• 11006151The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.
• 11006150To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.
• 11006149Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
• 11005153Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination.
• 11005149Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid.
• 11003649The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. While Toyota paint quality, durability, and resistance to environmental factors is continuously being improved, it remains the responsibility of the dealer to protect and maintain the vehicles paint finish from the time of arrival at the dealership until retail delivery to the customer. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.
• 11003647To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. PD017-04. The entire bulletin has been updated.
• 11003644Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. While the quality and durability of paint on Toyota vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. To read, While the quality and durability of paint on Toyota vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
• 11003594The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. While Toyota paint quality, durability, and resistance to environmental factors is continuously being improved, it remains the responsibility of the dealer to protect and maintain the vehicles paint finish from the time of arrival at the dealership until retail delivery to the customer. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.
• 11003592To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. PD017-04. The entire bulletin has been updated.
• 11003589Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. While the quality and durability of paint on Toyota vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. To read, While the quality and durability of paint on Toyota vehicles is continuously being improved, it remains the dealers responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicles paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
• 10253223This is to advise of various price adjustments that will affect Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and Long Life Coolant, effective March 1, 2024. These products are ordered through the Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) website.
• 10251070OBSOLETE NOTICE January 22, 2024: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0057-18.
• 10244113TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ? 2023 model year vehicles may be available provided the requests meet the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin. Follow the Procurement Procedure in this bulletin to request a replacement certification label or VIN plate.
• 10238157TSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to reset a vehicle Immobilizer or Smart Key system.
• 10214323TT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions
• 10210375TSB: This Service Bulletin includes procedures to replace damaged or loose front carpet floor retainer(s) without replacing the carpet assembly. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to replace the loose or damaged carpet floor retainer(s).
• 10207946POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests it. Customers can find this information on the Owner?s section of Toyota.com. Dealers can locate a copy of this guide on the Claims Processing & Resource Center in Dealer Daily as well.
• 10197476Replacement vin plates.
• 10197473Product general information.
• 10190460Toyota Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
• 10190453TT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
• 10188913TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ? 2021 model year vehicles may be available provided the requests meet the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin. Follow the Procurement Procedure in this bulletin to request a replacement certification label or VIN plate.
• 10187241TT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
• 10186195TT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
• 10174891TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 07, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0032-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
• 10174890TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, PG006-01, PG004-97, T-SB-0144-08, and T-SB-0304-17. The aforementioned bulletins are obsolete, and any printed versions should be discarded. Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ? 2020 model year vehicles may be available provided the requests meet the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin. Follow the Procurement Procedure in this bulletin to request a replacement certification label or VIN plate.
• 10171405TSB: Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases that are determined to be a ?leak? should be repaired accordingly and will be covered under warranty if applicable. Cases that are determined to be a ?seep? should be documented on the repair order and inspected at the next service interval. Follow the Repair Information in this bulletin to determine if the concern in question is a fluid leak or fluid seep and review the Repair Procedure section to address the condition. NOTE This bulletin applies to ALL powertrain fluids excluding fuel and coolant.
• 10164330TSB: REVISION NOTICE July 01, 2019 Rev2: ? Applicability has been updated to 2019 ? 2020 model year Toyota vehicles. ? The Techstream Preparation and Process Overview sections have been updated. October 30, 2017 Rev1: ? Applicability has been updated to include 2018 model year vehicles. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes SB No. T-SB-0012-13. Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0012-13 is obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded. Be sure to review the entire content of this bulletin before proceeding. Flash reprogramming allows the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information. NOTE ECU is a Toyota term used to describe integrated computerized devices responsible for managing the operation of a system or subsystem. For the purposes of this bulletin, the term ?ECU? is used as a generic label for the following SAE J1930 standard references: ? Powertrain Control Module (PCM) ? Engine Control Module (ECM) ? Transmission Control Module (TCM) ? Any other Toyota specific control unit
• 10152205TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes SB No. T-SB-0101-11. Applicability has been updated to include 2016 ? 2017 model year vehicles. Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0101-11 is Obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded. Be sure to review the entire content of this bulletin before proceeding. When servicing interior electrical switches and components, please note the precautions in this bulletin to avoid damaging electrical components and switches. Many lubricants, cleaners, and automotive chemicals contain silicone or other compounds that may contaminate electrical contacts, and therefore increase electrical resistance and decrease switch performance. The use of any cleaners or fluids may increase the risk of further damage to electrical components.
• 10150418TSB: Supersession Notice. Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
• 10149217TSB: Supersession Notice. Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
• 10145776Update on Technician Certification Requirements.
• 10145749Technical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
• 10145748Technical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
• 10143953TSB: REVISION NOTICE July 31, 2018 Rev2: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. January 11, 2018 Rev1: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded. SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, PG006-01, PG004-97, and T-SB-0144-08. Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, PG006-01, PG004-97, and T-SB-0144-08 are obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded. Vehicle replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) may be available from Toyota, provided the request meets one of the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin. Replacement Certification Label and VIN Plate Criteria A replacement certification label and/or VIN plate may be requested if: ? The vehicle was in an accident and the label and/or plate is damaged or attached to a part that will be replaced during the repair. ? The label and/or plate was stolen.
• 10143927TSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0043-14. ? Applicability has been updated to include 2017 ? 2018 model year Toyota vehicles. Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0043-14 is obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded. The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to reset a vehicle Immobilizer or Smart Key system. NOTE New security provisions are required to obtain a reset passcode. It is critical to review the instructions for this new process BEFORE attempting to get a passcode in the new system.

Every Toyota RAV4 model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.