The RAV4 compact crossover SUV is a hugely successful model, with its enjoyable driving dynamics, practicality, high fuel economy and elegant, robust design. However, like any model, it can run into problems, resulting in a Check Engine Light. See the three most common causes of the Toyota RAV4 check engine. Let’s also see if the compact SUV is reliable.
What are the most common reasons for a Toyota RAV4 Check Engine Light?
The Check Engine Light in the Toyota RAV4 serves as a warning indicator. There are systems and sensors in the compact SUV that monitor various things and when a problem is detected, cause the Check Engine Light to come on. received answers from the owners, identifying the most frequent reasons.
. We’ll cover overall reliability later. However, these are the most frequent reasons for a Check Engine Light, so let’s look at them in more detail.
The most common cause of a Toyota RAV4 Check Engine Light is a faulty sensor
A faulty sensor is the most common cause of the Toyota RAV4 Check Engine Light, according to RepairPal. And the most problematic is the oxygen sensor. Additionally, the faulty oxygen sensor may have corresponding symptoms, such as rough idling, misfire or engine hesitation, and decreased mileage. At most, the compact SUV stalls. The broken sensor can also lead to a failed emissions test.
Emissions system problem
A problem with the emissions system is the second most common reason for a in the Toyota RAV4. Symptoms of a problematic emissions system include slower acceleration, shift complications, engine failure, and jerking.
Malfunctioning catalyst
The other frequent cause of a Toyota RAV4 Check Engine Light is a malfunctioning catalytic converter. There are various types of catalytic converter problems, including clogging, overheating, and contamination. A damaged catalytic converter can cause slow performance and engine failure. It also creates more air pollution, as it is unable to serve its primary purpose: converting polluting emissions into harmless gases.
Also, there has been a surge across the country, with thieves looking for the precious metals. These precious metals are what enable the conversion of pollutants.
What repairs are needed for these RAV4 Check Engine Light problems?
For these causes of the check engine light, several types of compact SUV diagnostics are required. This includes a general diagnosis, a check engine diagnosis, and an electrical system diagnosis.
A technician at a Toyota service center can conduct these tests and find corresponding error codes that reveal the specific reasons. From there, repair or replacement of the sensor, emissions system, or catalytic converter may be required.
Is the Toyota RAV4 a reliable compact SUV and is it expensive to repair?
Despite these issues, the Toyota RAV4 is reliable compared to most other compact SUVs. RepairPal gives it an “above average” rating of four out of five. In a field of 26 compact SUVs that the auto site rated, the RAV4 ranked 3rd in reliability.
Also, the repair costs are relatively low. The average annual cost to repair the RAV4 is $429. By comparison, the average for the compact segment is $521, and for all vehicle types it is $652.
