Should You Buy a 2019+ Toyota RAV4 (or Hybrid)?

This note summarizes common problems of the 2019 and newer Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid, and importantly, how they've been addressed.

Engine:

Potential Engine Failure Recall: A small number (30,500) of 2019-2020 RAV4s were recalled due to a potential engine failure risk. This issue, related to a faulty cylinder block, is covered by a recall, regardless of mileage. If you're buying from a Toyota dealer, especially a certified pre-owned, this shouldn't be a concern as they'll verify if the recall has been addressed. New models are not affected.
Engine Noise: The 2.5L Dynamic Force engine (A25A) can be loud due to its direct and port injection system. This is normal and not a sign of a problem. The engine also features technology to mitigate carbon buildup common in direct injection engines.
Long-term Reliability: Concerns about the engine not lasting are unfounded. Taxis with over 100,000 miles and other vehicles with the same engine exceeding 200,000 miles are running strong.

Transmission and All-Wheel Drive:

8-Speed Transmission (Non-Hybrid): This transmission can exhibit unusual shifting behavior, often described as "gear hunting." While this is a characteristic of its design and not a malfunction, it can be improved by resetting the transmission memory at a Toyota dealership.
eCVT Transmission (Hybrid/Prime): Considered very reliable with no significant issues.
Torque Vectoring AWD (Adventure/Limited Trims): Early models experienced a buzzing or groaning noise, or a sudden engagement/disengagement feeling during stopping or accelerating at around 20-30 mph. This was due to clutches in the torque vectoring system and has since been addressed with updated parts. Test driving a used model should reveal any lingering issues, but this is less likely on higher mileage or newer models. Not a concern for non-Adventure/Limited trims.

Body:

Shaking Side Mirrors: Some RAV4s experience shaking side mirrors at highway speeds. Toyota has an official fix involving reinforcement within the door and mirror modifications. Covered under warranty.

Electrical:

Doors Not Locking When Shifting from Park to Drive: Fixable by disconnecting the battery for over six minutes.
Seat Memory Issues: Can often be resolved by moving the seat through all its possible positions to recalibrate. Some newer RAV4s experienced creaking seat motors, requiring replacement of part of the seat frame. Covered under warranty.
Premature Battery Drain/DCM Issues: The Data Communications Module (DCM), essentially a built-in cell phone, can cause battery drain and issues with remote start and connected services. Software updates have largely resolved the battery drain problem. DCM-related issues are complex and can be troublesome, requiring patience and interaction with both Toyota and the cellular network provider (Verizon in some areas). Note: the factory remote can also be used for remote start.

RAV4 Hybrid:

Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy: A known issue where the fuel gauge, distance to empty, and low fuel warning light may be incorrect after filling the tank. This was exacerbated by delays in a fix due to the pandemic, but a solution is now available, involving fuel gauge calibration, replacing the fuel sending unit, or even the whole fuel tank. Toyota has extended the warranty to cover this issue.

RAV4 Prime:

Hybrid Warning Message/Safe Mode: An emerging issue causing a hybrid warning and potential safe mode activation. This is attributed to poor ground contact on the DC-DC converter and is fixed by replacing four bolts with updated parts.

Overall: While the RAV4 has had its share of problems, most have been addressed with fixes and software updates. The severity of some issues has been exaggerated online. Be aware of the potential DCM issues, especially if relying heavily on connected services. Overall, the RAV4 and its variants remain a solid choice, and the known problems shouldn't deter a purchase, especially with the available fixes.