Here Are The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Years To Avoid
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the close cousin to the standard RAV4, with obvious hybrid capabilities. They are nearly identical models with a different engine, so if you’re familiar with the traditional model there’s a good chance the hybrid would feel similar. Although these small crossovers are nearly the same in most aspects, there are a few important differences. Toyota has a pretty consistent track record across the board, so what are the RAV4 Hybrid years to avoid?
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid gives you the option of driving on pure electric power or a combination of gas and electric power. If properly maintained and used sensibly, a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid should run for at least 200,000 miles and in some cases over 300,000 miles. With an average annual mileage of 15,000 miles, drivers can anticipate nearly 20 years of dependable service before requiring costly repairs.
Major issues by each model year according to carcomplaints.com:
- 2021: 2
- 2020: 19
- 2019: 28
- 2018: 7
- 2017: 3
- 2016: 17
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid years to avoid quick answer: 2016 and 2019
It has a fairly short history after being debuted in 2016 alongside the facelifted fourth-gen RAV4, and a new plug-in hybrid variant was added in 2019. This version was revamped with larger more modern touch displays, new interior and exterior aesthetics, more standard and optional amenities, and stronger and more fuel-efficient powertrains were all part of the overhaul. They both have some performance issues which is not uncommon for new and revamped models.
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Toyota RAV4 Hybrid years to avoid: 2016
Like many new models or first-generation vehicles, the 2016 model had its fair share of growing pains.
Common complaints according to Car Complaints:
- Interior accessory failures
- Body and paint
- Brake performance
- Exterior accessory failures
- Interior and external lights
- Brake pads
- Fuel system
- Steering issues
Luckily there haven’t been any reported recalls or major TSBs, but many drivers who were excited about a hybrid model of the RAV4 were left disappointed to have so many everyday issues with the 2016 year.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid years to avoid: 2019
It was revamped by Toyota after entering the market a few years earlier, but the 2019 model has the unfortunate title of having the most customer complaints in the vehicle’s history. The 2019 model year is also one of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid years to avoid due to its high amount of official TSBs from the manufacturer.
Some of the most significant TSBs for the 2019 model year:
- Suspension and brakes
- Engine and cooling system
- Electrical power system
- Gasoline fan, fuel gauge, and fueling system
- Electrical system
- Airbag sensors
- Exterior doors and locks
- Power seats
- Forward collision avoidance
- Lane departure camera recognition
- Blindspot detection
- Electrical theft prevention
- GPS errors
Recalls
- Separation of front lower suspension arms
- Coolant leaks
- Brake assist
While recalls are common, it can certainly be frustrating for car buyers when a model that was just retooled has them. The NHTSA only issued a few official recalls for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and most were fairly manageable.
Front lower suspension arm failure
When a suspension control arm fails, the vehicle loses control, increasing the likelihood of an accident. The suspension system was found to be more likely to separate causing driving hazards, but under 10,000 vehicles were recalled.
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Engine coolant
In typical gasoline automobiles, a coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat and stall, increasing the danger of an accident. Additionally, the engine of all affected cars may be mechanically damaged, perhaps resulting in an engine oil leak, increasing the likelihood of a fire. This was found on multiple other models and affected nearly 50,000 vehicles.
Brake assist and stability control
The lack of braking help or the deactivation of the vehicle stability control system increases the likelihood of an accident. While not being able to accurately control your brakes is significant, this only affected a few thousand vehicles.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid years to avoid: what are the good models?
Quick answer: 2020 and 2021
From 2020 onwards, the hybrid battery on RAV4s sold comes with a 10-year/150,000-mile guarantee. The battery on previous RAV4 Hybrid models came with a more modest 8-year/100,000-mile guarantee. You can feel more confident with models from 2020 and newer with more long-term security.
It received the #1 overall position in the hybrid and electric SUV category. It was also the winner of U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for the Money” award and was a finalist for the “Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for Families”. There were 4 official recalls, but most only affected a handful of vehicles outside of the coolant leak that recalled about 50,000 vehicles. It was well-received critically and by consumers as one of the better options to choose from.
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- Overall Score: 8.4⁄10 from critics
- Performance: 7.9⁄10
- Interior: 8.1⁄10
- Safety: 9.5⁄10
- 74 Quality and Reliability
It wasn’t a one-year fluke, and the 2021 model continued to receive praise from critics and consumers alike. It again won the “Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for the Money” award and was a nominee for “Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for Families” from the U.S. News and World Report. It had minor issues with fuel tank reading but overall was strong from top to bottom.
- Overall Score: 8.2⁄10 from critics
- Performance: 8.4⁄10
- Interior: 7.7⁄10
- Safety: 9.4⁄10
- Quality and dependability: N/A
If you’re in the market for a hybrid, the RAV4 Hybrid is a great option. While you can probably save some money by going for an earlier model year, the models from 2020 and newer will provide a little more value over its lifetime with better technology and stronger warranties. It’s always a good idea to test drive them for yourself and get a feel for the slight differences, and if you’re really interested, invest in a private mechanic for an inspection before you buy.
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