2008 Toyota RAV4

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 575 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 14 times.

Avoid One of the Toyota RAV4 years to avoid: 2.0× the complaints of a typical RAV4 year. Which Toyota RAV4 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
66,000 milesMedian miles at failure

430 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2008 Toyota RAV4 problems

150 of the 575 complaints (26%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine131
041
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration78
1607
Suspension66
000
Steering58
414
Air Bags · airbags47
706
Unknown or Other17
100
Electrical System17
150
Power Train · transmission15
110
Structure › Body · body and frame14
100
Seat Belts13
101

2008 Toyota RAV4 engine problems

26% of all complaints

150 of the 575 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • burns oil or loses oil pressure49% · 74
  • leaks oil or fluid15% · 23
  • sets off warning lights on the dash11% · 17
  • turns on the check engine light7% · 10
  • knocks, grinds or clunks5% · 7
  • stalls4% · 6

Share of the 150 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
80,000 mi
median of 113 reports
Peak year of filing
2013
26 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 4 · 3
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“My engine recently start to burning oil. Toyota had an extended Warranty for this issue which had to do with piston rings failure. which has expired. Searching the internet this problem is popping up all over the internet. Calling you”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 21, 2025
“Issue started when I noticed the vehicle was burning oil, hence why I had to keep refilling the oil levels often. This is an issue many other RAV4 owners have reported. However, the problem was made worse when my mother used my vehicle to pick up some family from the nearest airport. On her way home, my engine blew a hole through itself, causing an engine fire.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 15, 2025

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2008: 7 complaints, 0 about the engine'082009: 22 complaints, 1 about the engine2010: 83 complaints, 3 about the engine'102011: 31 complaints, 4 about the engine2012: 45 complaints, 6 about the engine'122013: 63 complaints, 26 about the engine2014: 63 complaints, 18 about the engine'142015: 57 complaints, 19 about the engine2016: 49 complaints, 15 about the engine'162017: 60 complaints, 15 about the engine2018: 31 complaints, 14 about the engine'182019: 26 complaints, 11 about the engine2020: 12 complaints, 6 about the engine'202021: 7 complaints, 2 about the engine2022: 7 complaints, 3 about the engine'222023: 3 complaints, 2 about the engine2024: 1 complaints, 1 about the engine'242025: 7 complaints, 4 about the engine2026: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine'26Recall 09V223000 (equipment)Recall 10V035000 (equipment)Recall 10V036000 (equipment)Recall 11V113000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 11V245000 (airbags)Recall 12V373000 (suspension)Recall 12V491000 (visibility)Recall 13V383000 (suspension)Recall 14V168000 (airbags)Recall 14V743000 (seats)Recall 15V689000 (visibility)Recall 16V096000 (seat belts)Recall 16V396000 (seats)
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2008 RAV4 peaked in 2010, with 83 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 26% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.

14 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear16V596000
Filed Aug 12, 2016337,449 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Toyota RAV4 vehicles manufactured October 31, 2005, to September 7, 2010, and 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles manufactured July 6, 2009, to August 26, 2010. The affected vehicles have rear suspension arms (rear tie rods) with adjusting lock nuts that may have been improperly tightened after servicing. As a result of being loose, the arm may have thread damage and may rust, possibly leading to the failure of the arm and an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.

Risk. Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners and dealers will replace both rear suspension arms and encapsulate the locknuts, free of charge. The recall began on September 30, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are G0V for Toyota vehicles and GLK for Lexus vehicles. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-383, in which some vehicles were only inspected, sealed, and did not have both arms replaced. The affected vehicles were previously recalled under 13V-383, but did not have both rear suspension arms replaced at that time. Those vehicles need to have both arms replaced as part of this recall remedy.

Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler16V396000
Filed Jun 2, 20167,749 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.

Risk. If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.

Seat Belts › Rear/Other16V096000
Filed Feb 19, 20161,123,752 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 RAV4 vehicles manufactured July 28, 2005, to December 19, 2012, and 2012-2014 RAV4 EV vehicles manufactured July 24, 2012, to August 29, 2014. In the event of a frontal collision, the rear seat belts for the outboard seats may be cut by the seat cushion frame.

Risk. A cut seat belt may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install a protector over both rear seat cushion frames, free of charge. The recall began on June 24, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is G0F.

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls15V689000
Filed Oct 22, 20151,814,284 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.

Risk. If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the switch, applying a lubricant if no abnormality is found. If abnormality is found, the PWMS circuit board will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 20, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is C0M.

Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler14V743000
Filed Nov 19, 20143,233 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.

Risk. Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module14V168000
Filed Apr 9, 20141,486,413 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module housed in a spiral cable assembly, which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer, the FFC could become damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Risk. If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically necessitates deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver.

Remedy. Toyota will notify the Toyota vehicle owners, and General Motors will notify the Pontiac Vibe owners. Toyota sent owners an interim notification letter in May 2014 to advise owners of the recall. Toyota will mail owners a second letter when remedy parts are available. General Motors sent Pontiac Vibe owners an Interim letter on June 20, 2014 notifying them that parts are currently unavailable. General Motors sent notices to the Pontiac Vibe owners on September 15, 2014, that a remedy is available. The recall began on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-762-2737.

Suspension › Rear13V383000
Filed Aug 28, 2013780,584 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2011 RAV4 and 2010 Lexus HS250h passenger vehicles manufactured from October 2005 through September 2010. If the nuts for adjusting the rear wheel alignment are improperly tightened during service, the rear suspension arm (rear tie rod) may develop unwanted movement and rust leading to thread damage and eventual failure. Failure of the rear tie rod will cause an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.

Risk. Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tie rods and replace any that have rust or corrosion on the alignment adjustment threads. All of the rear tie rods will then be encased in an epoxy to prevent future environmental damage. Due to limitations in parts, the recall remedy will be launched in phases from September 2013 through mid-April 2014. All owners will receive notification of the recall, with most receiving second notifications when parts are available in their area. IMPORTANT: This recall supersedes Toyota and Lexus recall 12V-373. All vehicles that have been inspected and remedied under the previous recall need to be re-inspected and have the appropriate remedy applied.

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls12V491000
Filed Oct 10, 20122,519,424 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.

Risk. If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.

Remedy. Toyota will notify its owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and apply a special grease that inhibits heat build up or replace any switch damaged by the defect, free of charge. Toyota owners that experience a problem with a switch should not attempt to make repairs, but should contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. General Motors will contact the Pontiac Vibe owners affected by this recall and GM dealers will inspect and repair switches as necessary. Those owners may contact Pontiac Customer Care at 1-800-762-2737.

Suspension › Rear12V373000
Filed Aug 2, 2012780,584 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2011 RAV4 and 2010 Lexus HS250h passenger vehicles manufactured from October 2005 through September 2010. If the nuts for adjusting the rear wheel alignment are improperly tightened during service, the rear suspension arm (rear tie rod) may develop unwanted movement and rust, leading to thread damage and eventual failure. Failure of the rear tie rod will cause an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.

Risk. Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear tie-rod nut for looseness and replace any suspect tie-rod found loose. Dealers will also affix instructions in multiple places to prevent improper servicing in the future. The recall began on November 30, 2012. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.

Air Bags › Side/Window11V245000
Filed Apr 21, 2011307,848 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.

Risk. INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.

Remedy. TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE CONTAINING IMPROVED ROLL RATE SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. TOYOTA INTENDS TO SEND AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS EARLY TO MID-MAY, 2011 WHEN SUFFICIENT PARTS AND REMEDY BECOMES AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal11V113000
Filed Feb 24, 20111,363,244 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 LEXUS LX570, 2003 THROUGH 2009 TOYOTA 4RUNNER, AND 2006 THROUGH 2010 RAV4 VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT.

Risk. A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy. THE REMEDY IS NOW AVAILABLE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN EARLY APRIL 2011. THE REMEDY WILL INVOLVE MODIFICATION OR REPLACEMENT OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND REPLACEMENT OF ANY TOYOTA ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 OR LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.

Equipment › Other › Labels10V035000
Filed Feb 3, 2010271,417 vehiclesGulf States Toyota, Inc.

Defect. GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.

Equipment › Other › Labels10V036000
Filed Feb 3, 2010153,418 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Risk. A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.

Equipment › Other › Labels09V223000
Filed Jun 15, 200927,080 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."

Risk. INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.

All 14 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 4 name the 2008 RAV4.

Power Window Master Switch FireEngineering analysis EA12006Closed
Opened Jun 14, 2012Closed Feb 12, 2013Led to recall 12V491000electrical system

On October 10, 2012, Toyota initiated a safety recall of approximately 2.5 million U.S. vehicles involving the following models and model years:2007-2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2008 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007-2009 RAV4, 2008-2009 Scion xB and xD, 2008-2009 Sequoia, 2007-2008 Tundra, 2007-2008 Yaris, and 2009 Pontiac Vibe.See NHTSA recall number 12V-491 for more details, including the affected vehicle manufacture dates for each vehicle model.Note that only early-production 2009 model year vehicles are included in the recall.Toyota and GM dealers …

Rear Suspension Arm Assembly FailurePreliminary evaluation PE12013Closed
Opened Jun 4, 2012Closed Sep 13, 2012Led to recall 12V373000suspension

In a letter dated August 1, 2012 Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Toyota) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA Recall No. 12V-373) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding possible separation of the Rear Suspension Arm No. 1 Assembly (arm) at the threaded portion (shaft and turn buckle) of the component in MY 2006 through MY 2011 Toyota RAV4 vehicles built from October 2005 through September 2010 and in MY 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles manufactured from July 2009 through August 2010.According to Toyota, if the adjustment nuts for the rear wheel …

Power Window Master Switch FirePreliminary evaluation PE12002Closed
Opened Feb 6, 2012Closed Jun 14, 2012electrical system

ODI has identified certain Toyota vehicles experiencing a higher rate of fire and thermal event incidents among all Toyota vehicles that use the same power window master switch design.They include a total of approximately 1.4 million model year (MY) 2007 through 2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 and Yaris vehicles built from approximately September 2006 through August 2008, as well as all MY 2008 Highlander Hybrid vehicles.This Preliminary Evaluation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-006) to further study the alleged defect and its consequences.The ODI reports cited above can be …

Unintended and Uncontrolled AccelerationRecall query RQ10003Closed
Opened Feb 16, 2010Closed Mar 1, 2011Led to recall 11V112000electrical system

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether …

Technical service bulletins

340 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2008 RAV4. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 106equipment 86body and frame 48electrical system 22transmission 19airbags 9suspension 9tires 7
KR3_Region EmailService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Region Email: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

KR3_Region LetteService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Region Letter: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

KR3_Dealer EmailService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Dealer Email: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

KR3_Dealer PackaService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Dealer Package: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

T-SB-0103-20 Rev1Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 19, 2024engine

This Service Bulletin provides updated non-electric water pump leak inspection and diagnostic tips for some 2008 – 2025 model year Toyota vehicles.

T-SB-0103-20 Rev1Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 19, 2024engine

This Service Bulletin provides updated non-electric water pump leak inspection and diagnostic tips for some 2008 – 2025 model year Toyota vehicles.

T-PANT-2024-004-Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 4, 2024engine

This 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.

T-TT-0628-20Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 21, 2020engine

TT: HVAC drain tube is found to be blocked/clogged.

T-TT-0468-17 RevService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 30, 2020engine

TT: HVAC drain tube is found to be blocked/clogged.

DOR-M3J3F-07Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 3, 2020engine

These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but parts on vehicles are not effected.

Showing the newest 6 of 106 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2008 Toyota RAV4 4-DR. w/SAB———★★★★★17.4%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air Bags
Filed Apr 13, 2026CO

My airbag light came on and I received a letter saying there was a recall but unfortunately I threw out the letter and when I called Toyota said there was a recall but it was fixed in 2012 when I didn’t own the vehicle and it seems like it didn’t last long because my airbags are not working so this will be the last time I buy a Toyota!! Thanks for Nothing

Engine
Filed Dec 4, 2025CT

My daughter and I are leasing our Toyota Rav4 almost paid off. Our last 2 oil changes done by professional the engine has burned off the oil in between the oil changes. I seen multiple complaints for this same issue for other owners and that there's not been any recalls only investigations. I read 1 person their engine caught fire. I'm disabled if what happened to that person's family happened to my Toyota I might not be as lucky as I, my daughter and my oldest daughter who is disabled and needs help moving and I'd have to get my dog out of the car and we all get safely away from the car and pray we were in a safe area no one else gets hurt. This oil burning from these cars is a dangerous safety hazard and expensive. Instead of a investigation recalls are needed to get the malfunctioning pistons replaced before someone physically gets injured or killed. This is a known issue by the Toyota manufacturer and obviously more and more owners are finding and coming forward with complaints. As for me and my daughter the car is not a new model but it's a new vehicle to use and we didn't know about the pistons malfunctioning issues or oil burning off until it happened. Please do a recall so this issue will be resolved not just investigations because investigations aren't helping nor protecting the consumers/owners. Toyota knew/knows of the safety issues and won't step up to the plate to fix something they know is faulty. Oil is burning out of my car's engine in between oil changes, don

Engine
Filed Aug 21, 2025WI

My engine recently start to burning oil. Toyota had an extended Warranty for this issue which had to do with piston rings failure. which has expired. Searching the internet this problem is popping up all over the internet. Calling you

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 19, 2025SC

The paint on my car is peeling all over. There has been a recall with other years of this vehicle but my specific year is not included in the recall. The paint peeling is the same color and issue as with the current recall. Please add my year into this recall so I can get some assistance from Toyota.

EngineFire
Filed Apr 15, 2025MO

Issue started when I noticed the vehicle was burning oil, hence why I had to keep refilling the oil levels often. This is an issue many other RAV4 owners have reported. However, the problem was made worse when my mother used my vehicle to pick up some family from the nearest airport. On her way home, my engine blew a hole through itself, causing an engine fire. If it wasn't for the swift thinking of my stepfather, she, him, and my brothers could've been seriously injured or killed. I firmly believe this has to do with the reason why the engine was burning oil.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 12, 2025CO

The issue relates to the spiral cable assembly in my 2008 Toyota RAV4, which falls under Safety Recall 14V-168. According to the recall documentation, this part may fail, which could affect the vehicle’s safety features, including the airbag system. My vehicle is potentially affected by this recall, as it falls within the specified VIN range, but after contacting Toyota Customer Support, I was informed that my vehicle is not eligible for the recall, despite meeting the criteria outlined in the official recall notice. This inconsistency puts my safety at risk, as the failure of the spiral cable could lead to the malfunction of the airbag system. The problem has not been confirmed by a dealer or independent service center, as I have not yet been able to have the issue inspected or repaired. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives at this time. There have been no warning lamps or messages related to this issue prior to my inquiry, as the recall issue was identified through the NHTSA database and Toyota’s recall records.

Engine
Filed Feb 21, 2025IL

The Rav4 is burning oil and consumption of oil. The oil is gone out before the next oil change. This has been going on for a while. There are no leaks and the milage on the 2008 Rav 4 Limited is only 88153.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 17, 2025FL

I purchased the vehicle on [XXX] after seeing the carfax report the dealer furnished. Now my car is no longer driveable due to the numerous repairs it needs. I looked at a real carfax report recently and found out thar dealer didn't give me the true report. It only showed 2 owners and mileage close to the odometer reading. However, there are 4 previous owners and the mileage is 172,000 just before it was sold and then purchased by dealer and then sold to me. Dealer hid the part of the report about the odometer tampering. I now have a very expensive lawn ornament that I still owe over $9,000 on. I can't afford to fix and now stuck with it since I can't sell it. I am having trouble uploading documents. I've tried calling but it just hangs up. I'm calling the number that's online but it doesn't work. Please contact me [XXX] Thank you! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Oct 22, 2024NC

See Attached Letter

Engine
Filed Aug 31, 2023MA

I have a toyota rav4 2008 2.4 the motor is no leaking oil, no blue smoke but i put 4 quarts oil on 1.000 miles,the comsuption oil is too much and the steering wheel column have problem and that is danger .i see on Google the problem on this car toyota rav4 2008 2.4 is came with factory problem on pistons and rings I call bernardi toyota framingham,ma on 08/27/2022 and i talk a service guy the problem and he say the recall for my car expires on 2018 but i read on Internet recall nver expires if the company o factory Still on ,I did call to service on toyota weslleyle,ma on 08/29/2023 and the service guy toll me the same My phone number [XXX] .. [XXX] my name Thank you.very much for help me INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Air BagsCrash
Filed Aug 26, 2023VA

2021 I was involved in a collision on the highway and my airbag did not deploy but airbag light remained on dash board even after repairing clockspring and attempting to reset airbag.

Engine
Filed May 22, 2023KY

Starting in June 2018, I have had seven episodes of unintended acceleration. (I have owned the car, purchased in private sale, since June of 2013.) There were common elements to each incident:1. gradually slowing; 2. foot on brake; 3. engine accelerates sharply, a moment before complete stop in first six, a moment after in seventh and last. In each incident able to maintain control as foot already was on brake; yet in three of the incidents, including the last two, the car bucked forward a few inches despite the pressure on the brake. Situation resolved when I turned off the ignition, a reflex developed after the first incident. This last incident was particularly upsetting as I was in a long line of slow moving cars on a relatively narrow road with pedestrians on each side of my car. Each incident has been reported to the local dealer with which I have been trading for many years. They did a thorough inspection when I reported the incidents to them in January of 2020 and again just today after the last incident that occurred on May 19, 2023. They could find nothing wrong and include on their report "TAS STATES SUSPECTED DRIVER ERROR, PEDAL MISS [sic] APPLICATION." I do NOT accept this conclusion. I note in the last incident I had come to complete stop momentarily before the engine accelerated and despite my heavy pressure on the brake bucked forward, with control established only when I shut the engine down. During the entire period of these incidents I also have been drivin

Engine
Filed Jul 20, 2022110,000 milesOK

The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that her husband checked the oil level and noticed that the oil level was low. The contact stated that two weeks prior to the failure, an oil change service was performed. The contact stated that her husband added oil; however, two weeks later he checked the oil level again and the oil level was low. The contact stated that the vehicle consumed one quart of oil every two weeks or approximately every 200 miles. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the service manager stated that it was a known issue with the vehicle. The contact was notified of a TSB however, the vehicle was over the mileage. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 11, 2022MA

Severe rust on frame and undercarriage. Other 2008 Toyota models were recalled due to the same rust issues. Unsure of when rust first started.

EngineFire
Filed May 6, 2022IN

Vehicle suddenly lose power while the cars are being driven, the engine shut off, and catch on fire.

Steering
Filed Mar 21, 2022CA

I was starting to back out of my driveway and my steering wheel made a loud clunking noise and became free floating. The plastic air vent fell on my right foot. I did not attempt to drive the car after this incident. I had it towed to Toyota Service. I was told that the steering bracket had come loose and that they had never seen anything like it before. I did some online research and found that this has happened many times with 2006, 2007 and 2008 Toyota RAV 4 vehicles. I believe there are even case numbers for some of them. It was determined to be a failed weld each time! If this had happened to me over the summer, when I was driving in the mountains it cold have caused a serious or even fatal accident. I don't understand why this hasn't been recalled?! This is very dangerous for the unsuspecting people driving RAV 4s! The repair estimate for this is over $5,000!

Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Mar 8, 2022126,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH, there was smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to inspect the vehicle and became aware that the alternator was smoking. The vehicle was turned off and towed back to the residence. The contact purchased the alternator and fixed the vehicle. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer had been notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 126,000

Steering
Filed Mar 8, 2022CO

The driveshaft welds that held the power steering motor to the vehicle frame failed. This caused steering wheel to be loose and unstable and the power steering motor to slam against the floor vent. It caused it to fall to the floor near the pedals where it could have obstructed the brake or accelerator pedal

EngineFire1 injured
Filed Jan 31, 2022150,000 milesNC

The contact's daughter owned a 2008 Toyota RAV 4. The contact stated that his wife was driving with their daughter on the highway at approximately 65 mph. The contact stated that his wife said no warning lights were illuminated. The contact's wife reported that the vehicle began to make a loud buzzing noise from the engine. The contact's wife was able to pull over on the road shoulder when she noticed smoke issuing from under the hood. The vehicle burst into flames from under the hood. The contact's wife and daughter jumped out of the vehicle, the daughter burned the palm of her right hand. The police and fire department arrived. The police attempted to extinguish the fire and called the fire department which extinguished the fire with water. The vehicle was undrivable and the police had it towed to an impound lot. The police nor the fire department issued a report. The daughter did not seek medical attention for the burn on her right hand. The contact said that the insurance company will inspect the vehicle this week. The contact said the vehicle was completely burned. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 27, 2021NY

This vehicle will not pass inspection due to unsafe frame/rotted frame. I've brought it to three different shops to see if it was just one area of the frame, but the whole framework has been declared unsafe. It has been well cared for and is in excellent condition otherwise and since it's well known that the Toyota frames have a long-standing bad reputation I feel I should get a frame replacement. Its scrap value is just $200! A massive rip-off to me!

Steering
Filed Dec 27, 2021CA

Making knockings/wobbling sound when steering wheel turning left or right while driving. Sound increases everyday with van driven. This problem started about 2 months ago. I reported this problem to Toyota Coustomer Service Last week. This is very serious issue as a safety of a Van. I have several problems with Van It is Lemon

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 28, 2021WV

I purchased this vehicle used in 2013 it had a recall in 2014 for pin welds and Rocker panels and now they are rusted out again.

Suspension
Filed Jul 6, 2021157,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to drive in a straight line and would erroneously drift out of the lane. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the rear suspension was faulty and needed to be repaired. The contact indicated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 16V596000 (Suspension) however, the failure occurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 157,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 5, 2021164,000 milesIL

REAR DIFFERENTIAL IS MAKING A LOUD RUMBLING NOISE IN THE BEGINNING OF 1ST, AND 2ND GEAR. BROUGHT IT IN TO TOYOTA AND THEY SAID IT WAS NOT LEAKING AND I WENT INTO THE SHOP AND ALSO LOOKED AT IT MYSELF AND IT WASN'T LEAKING. DID THE REAR DIF SERVICE LIKE TOYOTA RECOMMENDED BECAUSE THE CAR HAS BEEN SUPER RELIABLE AND I WOULD LIKE TO KEEP IT THAT WAY. I HAVE DONE 2 REAR DIF SERVICES BEFORE AND HAD NO PROBLEMS. RIGHT WHEN THEY DID THE SERVICE A COUPLE DAYS LATER IT STARTED MAKING THE RUMBLING NOISE AGAIN AND IS NOW LEAKING AND MADE A PUDDLE IN MY DRIVEWAY. I TOOK A LOOK AT IT MYSELF AND ALL PLUGS ARE TIGHTENED BUT IT IS NOW LEAKING FROM THE COUPLING WHERE THE DRIVESHAFT CONNECTS AND THE DRIVERS SIDE AXLE SEAL. THEY WANT ME TO PAY 1000 DOLLARS FOR A WHOLE NEW COUPLING ASSEMBLEY THAT IS REFURBISHED NOT INCLUDING THE DS AXLE SEAL AND LABOUR. I WILL POST PICTURE BELOW OF THE PROBLEM.

Engine
Filed Mar 5, 202195,000 milesWA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON INSPECTION OF HER ENGINE, SHE DISCOVERED THAT THE OIL HAD COMPLETELY EMPTIED WITHOUT WARNING. SINCE THE DISCOVERY, THE CONTACT WOULD FREQUENTLY REPLACE THE OIL APPROXIMATELY EVERY MONTH DUE TO THE EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. THE CONTACT THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO MAGIC TOYOTA (21300 HWY 99, EDMONDS, WA 98026) WHERE SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A KNOWN ISSUE AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARRANTY HOWEVER, THE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 95,000.

EngineFire
Filed Jan 7, 202190,550 milesFL

I PURCHASED THE 2008 TOYOTA RAV4 WITH 90,600 MILES ON DECEMBER 7/2020 FOR $ 7,000 . ON DECEMBER 13 COMING HOME ON SAWGRASS EXPRESS WAY THE VEHICLE GOT ON FIRE !! LUCKILY I HAVE HAD THE POLICE CAR FOLLOWED ME BECAUSE AND WAS DRIVING BEHIND ME AND NOTICE THE CAR HEAVILY SMOKING! I PULLED OVER AND WAIT FOR THE POLICE WITH THE TEXTINGUISHER TO LOCALIZE THE FIRE ! ISSUED A REPORT AND FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL FOR TOWING. CASE NUMBER FHPK20OFF058333 EMERALD TOWING ! NEXT DAY PAID FOR TOWING $400 ( RECEIPT IS PROVIDED) S.I.R.T 32962 DEC.13.2020 ON DECEMBER 14 PAID $ 125 AGAIN TO BE ABLE TO TOW IT TO PAULS TRANSMISSION LOCATED ON 4430 N. DIXIE HWY. FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33334 REPLACE ENGINE WITH LKQ UNIT TOTAL COST $4,066 INVOICE PROVIDED. IN THE MEANTIME I HAVE TO WORK SO I NEEDED A RENTAL CAR UNTIL JANUARY 6TH, 2021 $ 437.73 TOTAL COST !

Engine
Filed Dec 27, 2020CA

MY ENGINE IS CONSUMING OIL MORE THAN NORMAL AND I ONLY DRIVE LOCALLY AND VIBRATES IN IDLING AND WHEN YOU STOPPED THE CAR ALSO CONTINUOUSLY HAS A SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE LIKE CLICKING HARDER AT IDLING AND RUNNING IS VERY NOTORIOUS. I CONSULTED OTHER MECHANIC SHOPS AND THEY SAID THERE S A PROBLEM IN THE INTERNAL ENGINE BUT NOBODY WORKED IN MY CAR. IN THE PAST I TOLD THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND THEY IGNORE IT

Suspension
Filed Oct 29, 2020113,585 milesNY

I I HAVE BEEN HAVING A LOUD SOUND FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR... I HAVE HAD THE CAR FOR 3 YEARS I HAD TO HAVE THE SWAY BARS REPLACED WITHIN THE PAST 6 MONTHS.. I AM HIGHLY AFRAID THAT THIS IS ASSOCIATED WITH RECALL THAT SUPERSEDE 13V-383 WHICH WAS PRIOR TO WHEN BOUGHT THE SUV.. IT'S HARD TO TELL IF THE SOUND GOES AWAY AFTER SOME TIME DRIVING BUT IS VERY NOTICEBLE AT LOW SPEED

Engine
Filed Oct 25, 202088,851 milesCA

I OWN TOYOTA RAV 4 2008. I PURCHASED A USED CERTIFIED VEHICLE IN 2009. I HAVE ENCOUNTERED AN ISSUE WITH MY CAR SUCH THAT ENGINE STARTED STALLING INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVE TO MY HOME. ON THE DASH BOARD I SAW THE ENGINE OIL LIGHT COMING ON INTERMITTENTLY. I WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT TO HOME SAFELY AND UPON INSPECTION I FOUND THAT ENGINE OIL LEVEL WAS WAY DOWN TO THE POINT THAT IT WAS NOT DETECTABLE AT ALL. THERE WAS NO OIL ON THE DIP STICK. I LOOKED AT THE SERVICE RECORD AND MY CAR WAS SERVICED ON OCT 15TH 2016 FOR OIL CHANGE AND OTHER OTHER SAFETY RECALL. ON OCTOBER 15, 2016 THE MILEAGE WAS 83406. THE NEXT SERVICE WAS DUE ON MARCH 15 OR AT 88406 MILES. I CALLED THE DCH TOYOTA OF SIMI VALLEY DEALERSHIP AND THEY ASKED TO COME IN THE MORNING FOR INSPECTION. THEN I WENT TO AUTOMOTIVE STORE AND PURCHASED 5W-20 OIL, IT TOOK 3 QUART OF OIL AND I WAS TO SEE THE OILS LEVEL AS NORMAL ON DIP STICK. THEN I ARGUED WITH DEALER THAT IT SHOULD NOT CONSUME 3 OR MORE QUART OF OIL. I WENT TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC HE CHECKED THE TAIL PIPE AND HE SAW BURNED OIL. HE CONFIRMED THAT ENGINE IS BURNING OIL. THEN I CALLED TOYOTA MOTOR AND COMPLAINED THAT ENGINE IS BURNING OIL. THEY AUTHORIZED THE DEALER TO DO THE OILS CONSUMPTION TEST. THEY WILL INVESTIGATE ON HOW MUCH OIL IT BURNS? DCH TOYOTA OF SIMI VALLEY DID THE OIL CONSUMPTION STUDY AND REPORTED THAT MY CAR DID NOT CONSUME ENOUGH OILS TO DO THE WARRANTY REPAIR. THEY SAID IT ONLY CONSUMED 3/4 QUART OF OIL EVERY 1200 MILES AND IT PASSED THE OIL CON

Engine
Filed Sep 30, 2020160,000 milesWI

VEHICLE CONSUMES MORE OIL THAN THE NORMAL.HAVE FOUND OUT THAT 2007-2009 TOYOTA RAV 4,(2AZ-FE ENGINES) HAVE A FAULTY PISTON AND RINGS DESIGN.THESE ENGINES BURN OIL,BECAUSE OF THIS FAULTY DESIGN.

Steering
Filed Sep 22, 2020140,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED TO REMAIN CENTERED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE HAD TO MANUALLY CORRECT THE STEERING WHEEL TO KEEP THE VEHICLE DRIVING STRAIGHT. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INFORMED HIM THAT THE STEERING ISSUE WAS NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION. THE CONTACT HAD YET TO NOTIFY A DEALER OR MANUFACTURER ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.

Engine
Filed May 4, 2020225,000 milesCA

VEHICLE ENGINE SEIZED AND SHUT DOWN WHEN I WAS DRIVING ON A MAIN STREET INSIDE CITY LIMITS ON A STRAIGHT BUSY ROAD. PULLED INTO DRIVEWAY BUT VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AGAIN SO HAD IT TOWED TO MY HOUSE. REPLACED BATTERY BUT STILL WOULD NOT START. HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO TOYOTA DEALER.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 16, 2020223,000 milesCA

VEHICLE LOST POWER AND SHUT DOWN AS I WAS DRIVING ON A BUSY MAIN ROAD WITH LOTS OF TRAFFIC. AS IT CONTINUED TO SLOW DOWN I WAS ABLE TO PULL INTO A DRIVEWAY AND STOP. I TRIED TO START VEHICLE AGAIN WITHOUT SUCCESS BUT IT MADE LOUD GRINDING NOISE. AFTER SHORT TIME I ATTEMPTED TO RESTART VEHICLE MADE A LOUD GRINDING SOUND BUT WOULD NOT START. CALLED FOR TOW AND THEY DETERMINED IT WAS NOT THE BATTERY AND TOWED VEHICLE TO MY HOUSE. PAINT PEELING OFF VEHICLE IN LARGE PATCHES. WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL NOT WORK BUT NOT A RESULT OF LATEST INCIDENT. WIPER MOTOR HUMS BUT DO NOT WORK. CD PLAYER STOPPED WORKING FEW MONTHS AGO. MAKES CLICKING NOISES BUT WILL NOT PLAY CD OR EJECT DISCS. *TR

Engine
Filed Apr 8, 202099,000 milesCA

THE ENGINE CONSUME TOO MUCH OIL, IT HAS AROUND 100,000 MILES ON IT. I CHANGE OIL EVERY 3K TO 4K MILES AND WHEN I'M READY TO DO OIL CHANGE THE OIL IS ALMOST EMPTY, NOW I HAVE TO REFILL AND CHECK THE OIL FREQUENTLY

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Mar 9, 2020IL

I'M CHECKING TO SEE IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THE EXHILARATION OF GAS PEDAL. EVERY TIME I STAT THE TRUCK IT HAS A LOUD AND HIGH EXHILARATE IN AN STATIONARY POSITION. WHEN I PUT IT INTO DRIVE IT TAKES OFF AT A FAST RATE

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 5, 202047,000 milesSC

VEHICLE BEGAN BRIEF HESITATION AT MODERATE SPEEDS WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. ALSO, THE IDLE SEEMS TO STAY HIGH RPM FOR LONGER THAN IT DID. THEN JUST TWO DAYS AGO, THE ENGINE BRIEFLY QUIT COMPLETELY WHILE ACCELERATING TO CLIMB A HILL. ALL THESE ISSUES SEEM TO BE RELATED TO THE FIRST USE OF THE DAY FOR A 10 OR 15 MINUTE PERIOD. THE VEHICLE IS PARKED OUTSIDE OVERNIGHT.

Engine
Filed Feb 17, 2020170,000 milesNJ

MY CAR IS BURNING OIL VERY QUICKLY. I HAVE TO CHECK IT WEEKLY AND NOW AM PUTTING 1 OR 2 QUARTS OF OIL EVERY 2 OR 3 WEEKS. I TRAVEL 60 MILES DAILY AND THOUGHT THAT BECAUSE OF DISTANCE AND BECAUSE MY CAR HAS OVER 100,000 MILES, THAT THIS WAS THE REASON. NOW I AM READING ABOUT ALL THE MANY SAME COMPLAINTS OTHER OWNERS ARE HAVING. IS THERE A RECALL OR SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM? I DIDN'T WANT TO BUY A NEW CAR YET.

Power Train
Filed Jan 1, 202086,000 milesGA

RAV4 HAS BEEN MAINTAINED PER TOYOTA'S RECOMMENDATIONS. AT APPROX 86K MILES IT STARTED USING UP EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF OIL. OIL IS NOT LEAKING, NOR BURNING (CAN'T SEE ANYTHING IN THE TAIL PIPES), AND THERE'S NO BURN OIL SMELL ANYWHERE. AFTER RESEARCHING, I FOUND THAT IN 2011, TOYOTA ISSUED TSB-0094-11 THAT ACKNOWLEDGED EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION IN MY YEAR VEHICLE. TOYOTA ALSO ISSUED A LSC ZE7 WHICH OFFERED FREE REPAIR FOR QUALIFIED VEHICLES DURING THE CAMPAIGN (11/24/2017 OR 150K MILES WHICHEVER CAME FIRST). UNFORTUNATELY MY CAR JUST HIT 86K MILES. I'M THE 2ND OWNER AND NEVER GOT ANY NOTIFICATION. MY CAR IS BURNING ABOUT 1 QUART PER 1,000 MILES. AFTER SPEAKING TO TOYOTA CUST NO-SVC, THEY'RE NOT WILLING TO DO ANYTHING. EVEN THOUGH THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THERE'S AN ISSUE!!! MY CASE WITH TOYOTA IS 1912311193. FROM MY ONLINE RESEARCH I'VE SEEN MANY PEOPLE IMPACTED THAT HAVE NOT BEEN HELPED BY TOYOTA. THIS IS JUST NOT RIGHT. TOYOTA HAS KEPT THIS VERY QUIET.

Engine
Filed Dec 25, 2019GA

EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION ( 1 QT/400 MILES), CAR IS NOW AT 108K MILES. OIL CONSUMPTION TEST DONE AT 83K (USED ONLY 1/4 QT SO PASSED) AT ROSWELL, ATLANTA. AND I WAS ASKED TO TOP UP OIL DURING OIL CHANGES. NO NOTICE RECEIVED FROM TOYOTA FOR OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUES. HOW COME THE CAR CONSUMING JUST 1/4 QT/1000 MILES CONSUMING 1 FULL QT/400 MILES NOW? (ASSUMING TEST IS DONE CORRECTLY) I DONT KNOW. BUT FOUND ON INTERNET THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH THIS ENGINE. I WOKE UP LATE. CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY SINCE 05/18 FOR ANY FIX. TOYOTA ACTED SO CHEAP BY NOT RECALLING THE CARS HERE DESPITE KNOWING THE ISSUE VERY WELL. I ALWAYS THOUGHT TOYOTA IS KNOWN FOR RELIABILITY BUT NOT ANYMORE.

Power Train
Filed Dec 16, 2019148,000 milesIL

THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL COUPLING THAT MAY CAUSE THE CAR TO LOCK UP AT HIGH SPEEDS. THE REPAIR COST IS RIDICULOUS AND TOYOTA WILL NOT STAND BEHIND ITS PRODUCT. THE CAR MAKES TERRIBLE BUMPING NOISES AT LOW SPEEDS AND SOUNDS LIKE IT WILL LOCK UP.

Steering
Filed Dec 6, 2019170,000 milesPR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING, A ROCKING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE RACK AND PINION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 170,000.

Engine
Filed Dec 1, 2019NY

HAVING TO PUT OIL IN IT WEEKLY

Engine
Filed Oct 17, 201973,000 milesNY

CAR CONSUMPTION MORE OIL IT HAVE ONLY 70000 MILEAGE AND SEAT BELT GETTING STUCK SHOULD BE ENGINE AND SEAT BELT SAFETY ISSUE

Suspension
Filed Oct 13, 2019119,974 milesGA

RECALL CSJ WAS PERFORMED 08/01/14. REAR TOE-IN SET AT 0.10. ON 08/28/19 DEALER FOUND REAR TOE AT 0.08 LEFT AND 0.25 RIGHT AND REPORTED IT AS "FAILED". THEN INFORMED US THAT ALIGNMENT CAN'T BE CORRECTED DUE TO RECALL CSJ AND WE SHOULD DRIVE THE VEHICLE "AS IS' OR PAY FOR REPLACEMENT REAR TIE RODS. RECALL GOV WAS NOT PERFORMED. THE VEHICLE HAS INCREASED STEERING SENSITIVITY..

Suspension
Filed Oct 9, 2019NJ

WE DROPPED OFF OUR 08 RAV 4 AT THE DEALER DUE TO (FAULTY RECALL REAR TIE ROD REPAIRS DONE IN 2013.) I PUT A NEW SET OF EXPENSIVE TIRES. NOW AT APPROX 34,000 MILES NOW I NOTICES EXTREME WEARING PREMATURELY WITH POSSIBLE SAFETY CONCERNS. OUR REPAIR SHOP SAID THE (REAR SUSPENSION TIE RODS) CAN NOT BE ADJUSTED DUE TO TOYOTA'S (RECALL REAR TIE RODS EPOXY GLUE!) THIS MEANS WHEEL ALIGNMENT CAN NOT BE PROPERLY. HOWEVER, WHILE DRIVING ON CITY STREETS OR THE HIGHWAY YOU HEARD RUMBLING TIRE NOISES.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 4, 201965,000 milesNC

MY TOYOTA RAV WHITE PERIL PANT IS PEELING OFF. HAS BEEN FOR TWO YEARS. THIS IS SUPPOSE TO BE A LIMITED EDITION RAV OME PAINT. I BELIEVE THERES A DEFECT IN THE PAINT.

Engine
Filed Sep 22, 2019OH

2.4 LITER ENGINE IS CONSUMING OIL BETWEEN OIL CHANGES EVERY 5000 MILES, 2 TO 3 QUARTS OIL IS BEING ADDED TO KEEP OIL LIGHT FROM COMING ON

Steering
Filed Sep 10, 201985,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA RAV4. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND WHILE IDLING, AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TOYOTA OF MELBOURNE (24 N. HARBOR CITY BOULEVARD, MELBOURNE, FL 32935, (321) 426-9420) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL AND SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 90906975. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO THE LOCAL DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 85,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.

Engine
Filed Sep 2, 201965,000 milesTX

MY 2008 RAV4 4-CYLINDERS 85K MILES CONSUMES ABOUT A QUART OF OIL EVERY 150 MILES. NO LEAKS, NO SMOKE, VALVE SOUNDS WHILE IN MOTION. EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION!

Engine
Filed Aug 5, 2019150,000 milesCT

I HAVE A 2008 TOYOTA RAV4 4 CYLINDER, I'VE NOTICED THAT IT'S BEEN LOSING AROUND 2QTS BETWEEN OIL CHANGES AND THERE ARE NO OIL LEAKS. ARE THERE ANY RECALLS I SHOULD BE AWARE OF? SEEMS LIKE THERE IS ALOT OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME ISSUE AND I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR SO ITS VERY FRUSTRATING. TOYOTA SHOULD BE TAKING CARE OF THIS MATTER, VERY DISAPPOINTED.

Complaints 1-50 of 575, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2007
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202591300Routine
2024176300Routine
2023164310Routine
2022149102Fatalities reported
2021389170Above average
2020639650Above average
2019884730Above average
20183333330High concern
20173073242Fatalities reported
20162403120Above average
20153054411Fatalities reported
20141974250High concern
20132572291Fatalities reported
2012260540Above average
20112871180Above average
20104001430High concern
20093271530High concern
2008 — this page57514162Fatalities reported
20071,00414370High concern
20067051151Fatalities reported
2005141520Do not drive
2004154240Do not drive
2003315040Above average
20025270150Above average
2001309021Fatalities reported
200030302Fatalities reported
199962540Routine
199877500Routine
199754120Routine
199647120Routine
19951000Routine
19944000Routine

Compare every RAV4 year →

2008 Toyota RAV4: questions buyers ask

Is the 2008 Toyota RAV4 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the RAV4 years to avoid: owners filed 575 complaints, 2.0 times as many as a typical RAV4 year. The most common complaint is about the engine (26%).

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Toyota RAV4?

The engine: 150 of the 575 complaints (26%) are about it. Owners most often say it burns oil or loses oil pressure (49%), leaks oil or fluid (15%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (11%). The typical report comes at 80,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2008 Toyota RAV4 have?

14 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 12, 2016. The largest, 12V491000, covered 2,519,424 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2008 Toyota RAV4 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 66,000 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 80,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2008 Toyota RAV4?

Yes, 4 times. The latest, EA12006 ("Power Window Master Switch Fire"), was opened Jun 14, 2012 and closed Feb 12, 2013.

Are there service bulletins for the 2008 Toyota RAV4?

The manufacturer filed 340 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (106), the body and frame (48) and the electrical system (22). They include a service campaign, KR3_Region Email, filed Oct 23, 2019. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

2 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Aug 12, 2016. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.