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Toyota RAV4

EPA MPG: 25 mpg

RECALL ALERT:
There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability

Overall Reliability

The 2016 RAV4 is more reliable than other cars from the same model year.

The 2016 Toyota RAV4 has been recalled 3 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Toyota RAV4 owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

What Owners Say

Other exhaust system problem

"Two front pipes cost $3000 to replace for inspection; a surprising amount."

Anonymous A., PA (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Other/unsure

"driver side rear door will not unlock from inside"

Anonymous A., GA (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"small deer collision problem"

Anonymous, MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Had to replace the water pump. This part seems to be a problem with this model. Had to replace the water pump in the previous RAV4 that I owned - 2008 or 2009 model year. I may not buy another RAV4 because of this issue."

Anonymous, CO (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Needed new oil pump"

Anonymous, WI (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Check tire light won't reset even though tires are fine. Cost to fix is too high."

Anonymous, VA (2016 Toyota RAV4 Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Had to replaced front wheel bearings and axels."

Anonymous A., NC (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

""Have a problem with the tire pressure light being on. It started in winters and stayed on until spring, same as my daughter who has the same model. Now it is on all of the time. Dealer wants to change out the sensors for over two hundred each (four wheels and spare). I can buy a whole set of good tires for less.""

Anonymous A., PA (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

""Keep getting electronic notifications, but mechanic cannot find the issue.""

Anonymous, MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

""Keep getting message AWD system failure 2 wheel drive system engaged see dealer. Message comes and goes when it goes it stops cruise control and other minor non safety issue functions. Based on reading I have done, it appears to be a problem with O2 sensor with the AWD SENSOR being on same part. Many of the private mechanics said if you dont care about AWD then let it ride. Other suggestions were to replace gas cap which I did with Toyota part and it did not correct, then I found that the battery must be holding a full 12 volt charge or the electronics wont work correctly. So I had battery an 8 year old battery that was only holding a 11volt charge so I replaced it. It worked a little better. Then I started using 93 octane gas and it has cleared it up fairly well but when I used 89 octane it started it again. Many people have had this problem with several years of Toyota RAV4 models. How can they expect this to encourage people to go to electric vehicles? This started at about 87000 miles, not really an old vehicle based on todays standards.""

Anonymous A., MD (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Cruise control just stopped working. Have not had an opportunity to have it fixed yet."

Anonymous, WI (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Intermittent oxygen sensor failure causing loss of 4WD and disabling cruise control on a long trip. Now fixed. This was the first and only failure on this vehicle since we bought it."

Anonymous, MA (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Suspension/Steering

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

What Owners Say

Other steering/suspension problem

"Vehicle developed a clunk in the front end. Lower control arm was replaced which solved the problem"

Anonymous A., AB (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Power steering

"The steering is sticky (sticks when you turn the wheel) and a little loose."

Anonymous A., (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Shocks or struts

"Right front strut failure resulting in suspension noise"

Anonymous, UT (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"The struts started leaking. It was noticed when replacing the rotors in June 2025."

Anonymous, AZ (2016 Toyota RAV4 Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Steering wheel vibration

"Strange vibration felt in steering wheel at 60 mph."

Anonymous, ON (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Tie rods

"A stabilizer bar/ tie rod cracked by driving too rough."

Anonymous, CA (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Need to be replaced."

Anonymous A., (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Brakes

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

What Owners Say

Pulsation or vibration

"This was caused by the warped rotors"

Anonymous, PA (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Rotors

"started to notice pulsation about a year ago. Dealer said front rotors had glazing and replaced them."

Anonymous, CA (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"It started in 2024, the car would would vibrate when braking at high speeds (freeway). It was resolved in June 202,"

Anonymous, AZ (2016 Toyota RAV4 Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Even using premium rotors they still warp after heavy use daily driver"

Anonymous, PA (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Replaced rear rotars and brake pads. Rotors were warped."

Anonymous A., NB (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Squeaking

""Dealer greased the bearings, but squeal still persist. However, they work well.""

Anonymous A., MD (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Noises/Leaks

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Air or water leaks

"Water leaks down from sunroof drain when clogged causing severe damage/mold in front carpeting"

Anonymous, NJ (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

""Moonroof leak, leading to soaked front seat carpets, and black mold problems.""

Anonymous A., MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Seals and/or weather-stripping

""Moonroof started leaking several years ago. Probably ice and snow during winter, and during rain. Water leaked down into front carpeting, soaking it. Eventually causing black mold to form, and spreading thru out the front of the car. Was hard to remove.""

Anonymous A., MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

""There is a channel around the moon roof that collects water and then funnels it to the ground under the car. If one parks the car outside, this channel becomes clogged with debris and fails to funnel the water away. The water collects in a chamber around the edge of the moon roof and drips into the front seat. Most unpleasant. The dealer will unclog it for $45 but then it becomes clogged again. I love the car, I hate this flaw!""

Anonymous, MO (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Squeaks or rattles

"The interior squeaks are hard to locate. The front ones are in the dash area, and the back ones I cannot identify as far as location."

Anonymous, MT (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

In-car Electronics

Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

What Owners Say

Display screen goes blank

"Several times the screen has been blank when starting car"

Anonymous A., MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"MID display did not show gas mileage"

Anonymous, ON (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Heads-up display

""Message said AWD was not engaged but 2 wheel drive was working. Cruise control would not work, message stayed on and we could not see any other info on the display. Started in October 2024, dealer has replaced 5 parts, and fuel tank has been on order since January 2025, and has not been shipped, so problem has not been resolved. Very frustrating!""

Anonymous, ME (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

"Contacts disappear from screen. Phone connection noise is bad. People cannot hear me due to noise"

Anonymous A., MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Steering wheel controls

"Related to the previous problem about display"

Anonymous, ON (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Climate System

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

What Owners Say

A/C compressor

"it was no longer cooling"

Anonymous, OH (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Other climate system problem

""AC stopped working, turned out to be an inexpensive relay costing around $50""

Anonymous, VT (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Refrigerant leaks

"reservoir for refrigernt empty. Currently mechanic has replaced freon and added dye to try to find the leak."

Anonymous A., NY (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"To fix the leak would require removing the dashboard and would be expensive so I just frequently recharge it"

Anonymous, OH (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Electrical Accessories

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

What Owners Say

12V battery

"Battery died had to replace."

Anonymous, NC (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Headlights

"The left side headlight burned out and was replaced in the last year. And the right headlight burned out was replaced several months later"

Anonymous, CA (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
Keyless entry

"Key stop working, got a new battery for the key didn't help. Got new key from battery specialist still didn't work. Took Toyota dealership and spent $500 for another new key and programmed. They would not program other 2 keys purchased from battery specialist. Waste of $100!"

Anonymous, IL (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

What Owners Say

Rust

"Heat shield under car got loose as a result of rusting. Dealer had to reinstall it."

Anonymous, (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Poor quality paint. Tiny pinhole rust spots on hood, roof and sides"

Anonymous, MA (2016 Toyota RAV4 Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

What Owners Say

Driveshaft or axle

""The front drive axel shaft left inner boot was leaking and was replaced. Also, The back door that lifts up stopped working. Had to install new hydrolic lifts. They said the failure was due to a leak in the lifts.""

Anonymous, CA (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

"Multiple repairs to front hanger bearings and related parts. Very expensive and very disappointing."

Anonymous, ON (2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

What Owners Say

Water pump

"Engine was making a loud noise. Took to dealership for diagnostic. They are able to repair it that day."

Anonymous, NC (2016 Toyota RAV4 LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Body Hardware

Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

What Owners Say

Other body problem

"The front seats are uncomfortable for me. The middle of the seat is flat and only 10" or so, but the sides of the seat do not flare up gently, they are very uncomfortable on my legs. I had to find a flat cushion to sit on to help alleviate the discomfort. I have never had a car in my life that the seats were uncomfortable. I am 66 years old so have driven many cars."

Anonymous, MI (2016 Toyota RAV4 Unsure Unsure)

Fuel System/Emissions

Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

What Owners Say

Fuel pump

"Regular maintenance checkup showed fuel pump was leaking- replaced under extended warranty. Had not noticed any symptoms."

Anonymous, ON (2016 Toyota RAV4 Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

Transmission Minor

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

Engine Electrical

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

2016 SUVs Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

Reliability History
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Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
Recalls
PROVIDED BY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 01, 2023
A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
What should you do:
Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 27, 2024, to 2013-2014 RAV4 owners. Additional owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, phase 2 will begin on May 14, 2025, and phase 3 in late July 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V734000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 1853568
EQUIPMENT, TIRES
Apr 22, 2016
An incorrect label may result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.
Summary:
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota Yaris, Rav4, Land Cruiser and 4Runner vehicles, and Scion FR-S, iM, and TC vehicles manufactured January 28, 2016, to March 14, 2016. The Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label may not reflect the correct added weight of the installed accessories. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims for Passenger Cars."
What should you do:
SET will notify owners, and provide them a corrected label to be installed over the inaccurate label, free of charge. The recall began on June 3, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET16A.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V236000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 94
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Apr 07, 2016
Insufficient brake fluid pressure may cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota RAV4 vehicles manufactured October 30, 2015, to February 3, 2016, 2016 Lexus RX350 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2015, to February 8, 2016, and 2016 Lexus ES350 vehicles manufactured September 1, 2015, to February 29, 2016. These vehicles are equipped with an ABS actuator that may have a damaged O-ring which could result in improper brake fluid pressure control during ABS, Traction Control, or Stability Control activation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
What should you do:
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake actuator, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 4, 2016, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is G0I, GLC.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V198000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 16656
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