8.6
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,535.00
Average Mileage:
110,288 miles
Total Complaints:
102 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (41 reports)
- replace transmission (25 reports)
- replaced ecm (19 reports)
- new tramsmission (8 reports)
- added a bottle of Lucas transmission treatment (2 reports)
- replace transmission & ecm at the same time (2 reports)
transmission problem
Search for Problems, Recalls & Defects
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A free service from MechanicAdvisor.comHelpful websites
- Toyota Extends Warranty on Troubled 2001-3 RAV4 - Toyota is extending the warranty on automatic transmissions and electronic control modules on almost one quarter of a million 2001-2003 RAV4s and offering to reimburse owners who had already paid for repairs.
« Read the previous 50 complaints
2009Feb 14
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Man I have the same problem with my car, just like the rest of you nice people. We have to do something about this issue, it looks like some of you people have spent a lot of money for nothing. What we need is a lawsuit. We need someone that is a lawyer up in here. Sounds to me like, "Toyota" knows about this problem but no one has done anything about it yet. So they just keep on doing what that do best, take people's money.
For anyone that is reading this, do not get anything fix at dealer shops, unless it is a recall. They will try to take anything they can...go find some other small repair shop to do the job.
So, here's what I did to help my car run a little better, but not perfect. I undid the battery and cleaned up all of the ground wires with a wire brush and fine sandpaper and reconnected it. I hope that will help you a little, like it did me.
2009Apr 03
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 157,000 miles
Was the class action suit filed against Toyota? If so, anyone has an update? I had my catalytic converter replaced at 65K in 2004 and fortunately, it was covered under warranty. Fast forward to 2009 and the same issues are still there today. I encountered the same issues as everyone else with the transmission having difficulty from 1st to 2nd gear. In 2008, I spent over $1,200 on a new ECU because the Toyota dealership said that I needed to have it replaced because the engine was misfiring. I asked if this was a common problem at the time and they said that they had not heard about it before. Yeah right...My check engine light has been on for 5-6 months since late 2008 and I'm now needing to replace my catalytic converter again. I'm tired of this BS that Toyota is claiming to not acknowledge any of this. Any thoughts or suggestions?
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Mar 17
RAV4 LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
I am having problems with my transmission and have been told that it's due to a faulty Powertrain Control Module (which I received a recall on and brought into the dealership as instructed). Now I not only have to rebuild my transmission but I also have to purchase a new PCM. I spoke with customer service and waited two entire days to hear back from them. When I called back I received VERY poor service and I threatened to start a class action. I've since been googling and am realizing that this is a very big problem
2009Feb 26
RAV4 AWD 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
Toyota should be held accountable for this faulty error. They do know of the problem, there is a class action law suit against them...were signing up people, getting the word out...The only true way to fix your car, replace the transmission, replace and reprogram the ECU entirely...running you, thousands of dollars.
Search CarComplaints.com for these popular complaint phrases...
2009Mar 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 123,000 miles
So much for a reliable Toyota! In addition to the transmission problem, I also have had check engine light issues for over 2 years. I have taken it to Toyota on more than one occasion to have them not be able to turn it off. I now find myself with a failed transmission after taking excellent care of this car since I purchased it in 2001. Shame on Toyota for not owning up to this huge problem!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jan 06
RAV4 LS V4
- Automatic transmission
- 115,320 miles
The transmission was slow shifting from 2nd to 3rd. Also the car jumped. I had the transmission rebuilt. I got the car back, but the same thing began happening again. Now I am told that the problem is the computer. It ruined the transmission and if I use the car, it will ruin the fixed transmission. What is going on???? Does anyone know if there has been a recall for the computer?
2009Jan 31
RAV4 AWD 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 61,692 miles
Toyota RAv4 2001 AWD, from 1/31/09 onwards the transmission problem starts. It do not shift, it tries to shift but do not. during this it gives jerking and stalling or stopping. after reading some transmission problems reported regarding the same kind, I am going to contact dealer tomorrow. i will write up later after that.
2009Jan 10
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
Hard shifting from 2nd to 3rd. After driving around town, the car will not accelerate and will jump down the road until it finds 2nd or 3rd gear. Sometimes, I will shift into reverse or drive and the car will not move. Had it towed to a dealer. They said they checked the computer, but I needed a new transmission. Then, I received a notice from Toyota to reprogram my computer for free. Took it to another dealer. Just had the computer reprogrammed for free b/c of the recall. They said I needed a transmission flush, and my fluid was a little low. We decided to drive the car home b/c we are new to the area and do not trust the dealers here. Car drove fine home. Now, it's happening all over again. Going to have it towed once more to see what the problem is. I hope it's just the transmission fluid/flush. If not, I have a feeling my computer damaged the transmission. I had a Corolla for YEARS and never experienced problems like this.
Update from Oct 22, 2009: MY ADVICE TO EVERYONE IS TO REPLACE YOUR ECM. REPROGRAMMING IT DOES NOTHING! DO NOT REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION FIRST.
THIS IS A MONEY MAKING SCHEME. IF TOYOTA TOLD YOU YOUR ECM WAS DEFECTIVE, THEN THEY WOULD BE ADMITTING THE DAMAGE TO YOUR TRANSMISSION IS CAUSED BY THEIR DEFECTIVE PART (ECM).
AAMCO IS ALSO SCHEMING CUSTOMERS INTO PURCHASING A TRANSMISSION WHEN THEY KNOW THE ECM SHOULD BE REPLACED.
I HAD TO PURCHASE AN ECM FROM A DEALERSHIP IN WASHINGTON FOR A DISCOUNTED PRICE. IT CAME WITH A ONE YEAR WARRANTY. I HAD A MECHANIC INSTALL IT. OVERALL, I FIXED THE PROBLEM FOR LESS THAN $900.
THE DEALERSHIP WOULD HAVE CHARGED ME ALMOST $7,000 FOR THE TRANSMISSION AND ECM. THE ECM ESTIMATES WERE AROUND $1500. THIS IS RIDICULOUS BECAUSE THIS IS A TOYOTA CREATED DEFECT AND PROBLEM. BELIEVE ME, REPLACING THE ECM IS MUCH CHEAPER THAN WHAT THE DEALERSHIPS WILL CHARGE YOU TO FIX THE PROBLEM ONLY TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION THEN THE ECM.
THEY TOLD ME MY TRANSMISSION WAS SHOT, AND MY COMPUTER WAS FINE. I REPLACED THE COMPUTER, AND THE HARD SHIFTING WAS ELIMINATED. I KNOW MY TRANSMISSION IS NOT GOING TO LAST FOREVER, BUT IT IS CERTAINLY CHEAPER TO FIX THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM FIRST.
2009Jan 09
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 156,889 miles
Please help! I'm having problems with my 2001 RAV 4 shifting gears. I was told by toyota to replaced the chip, and the cost associated with such is close to $3000 dollars.
I'm not quite sure what to do! I can not stand the jerk and the noise that the makes while trying to shift gear. Toyota need to fix this problem right now!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Jan 12
RAV4 1az-Ff
- Automatic transmission
- 113,000 miles
I have this 2001 RAV4 with the same problem with the rest, the ECU is malfunctioning and the shifting is really bad in 1st and 2nd gear. I almost got an accident twice in the freeway. I called toyota regarding this issue and had told me that there was no recall regarding RAV4 ECU's malfunctioning and told them to visit this website.
I am sick and tired of this car!!!
2008Dec 22
RAV4 L
- Automatic transmission
- 125,000 miles
I'm sad to add myself to this list of unhappy 2001 rav4 complaints about the transmission. Has anyone had any luck getting this resolved with the deal/toyota? or has a law suit been filed?
2008Dec 01
RAV4 L 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I would like to share my frustration with the transmission of my 2001 Toyota RAV4. The car is in excellent condition (no problem what so ever) but recently the car jumps when shifting from 1 to 2 gear. I had the transmission fluid flushed (may be not needed) and I am curious to know whether anyone out there has any opinion what could be the cause of this?
2008Apr 10
RAV4 L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
I bought the car used from a dealer in 2006. I didn't purchase the warranty because it didn't seem worth the money per month since I was buying a well made, long lasting Toyota. While I still believe that once upon a time Toyotas were great, they clearly have not been making them like they used. I had the car for a year and half and the transmission failed. It started to shift smoothly in and 'uh oh something is really wrong way' and then it finally just stopped, in the middle of the road. I had to be towed and subsequently had to fork over $2800 for my transmission to be replaced. Am I angry? Yes! I loved my car, was very excited to have it. Now I curse it everyday for being a stupid money pit. I had heard of these things happening to Fords and Chevy's, not toyotas and hondas. And now my husbands 2002 Honda accord seems to have the same issue!!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Jun 30
RAV4 4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 10,000 miles
my rava 4 transmission went out on me while on vacation I was 500 mile from home,durning my time on the hwy i smelled something thinking it was the 18teenwheelers with the heavy loads, after reentering stop and go traffic i realized that I HAD A PROBLEM. Took it in to transmission shop they said yes there is something wrong with my transmission had it restored but still there was problem so I tolled it back to Virginia the dealer service manager said that the computer had begin causing owner problems. it cost me 1200 for a replacement of a new computer 1600plus for restoration while on vacation transmission doctor would not honor there warranty so I had to spend 2300plus at aamco third and fourth gear failure. plus attorney cost (1000 plus)
2008Nov 23
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 134,850 miles
I just started having problems with the automatic transmission on my Toyota 2001 Rav4 with regards to the hard shifting from 1st to 2nd gear just a couple of days ago. I have not done anything yet and I am not sure what to do at the moment. Should I call the local dealer, the car is definitely out of warranty? What repairs should be done to fix this problem. It is a very dangerous problem and can cause an accident because of the car stalling briefly while going from 1st to 2nd gear. Please help!!!
2008Nov 08
RAV4 L 4
- Automatic transmission
- 86,540 miles
This is the 10th or 11th site I've looked at for the RAV4 ECM/transmission problem. Here's what I've deduced after many hours of research:
1. The engine light comes on.
2. The tranny slips and jerks from 1st to 2nd, and sometimes from 2nd to 3rd.
3. If you drive more than about 50 miles in this state, the transmission is ruined.
4. Toyota put a faulty code into the ECM of lots of Rav4s, Camrys, and other models.
5. After years of hundreds of angry complaints, Toyota issued a recall on these models.
6. A large percentage of these people lose their transmissions and pay big.
7. Once the ECM is reflashed (or reprogrammed) the engine light stops coming on.
8. The transmission is only OK if it hasn't already been damaged.
9. Toyota mechanics plead ignorance, non-Toyota mechanics are bewildered.
10. Toyota refuses to admit that they've even ever gotten complaints.
11. People are angry, but Toyota works to keep them in small groups by model.
12. People in small groups are ineffective in calling Toyota to account for mistakes.
My RAV4 fits nicely into this recurring 12-step nightmare for Toyota owners. Even a number of chat sites try to isolate the responses by brand, much of their advertising coming from Toyota or its dealerships. I can just pay for my new transmission if I don't take a vacation this year, but there are lots of drivers who just can't afford to pay for a new transmission.
I used to be a loyal Toyota owner, but after watching the company dodge its responsibility and lie about why, I'm going elsewhere from now on. Go to the site http://www.topix.com/forum/autos/toyota/TEACK3S8TKGJN6IA3 and read on and on ad nauseum. People are looking for a class action lawsuit there. I'll join it if you will,,,
2008Aug 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 124,000 miles
I bought my Rav used and loved it, took care of it and then started to shift funny from 1st to 2nd and the engine light came on. Took it to the dealer and told me it need a ecu and a transmission. The cost was 5500.00 Didn't have the money to fix it so it is sitting in my yard. Toyota should do something to fix this problem. Maybe a class action suit. Not a happy camper.....
2008Oct 20
RAV4 L
- Automatic transmission
- 96,900 miles
an ordinary morning driving to work, out of nowhere my rav4 would not accelerate when i stepped on gas, and if it did it would jerk significantly to make the car jump. when i would step on the accelerator smoothly it would go easy to 2 RPMs n instantly jump to almost 4 RPMs with barely stepping on the gas n then instantly go back down to about 1-2 RPMs. This is the case every time i come to a stop, red light, trying to get the car moving is problematic. 2 days later the engine light turned on. When we connected it to the computer it gave a trouble code P0750. After speaking to several mechanics n the toyota dealer itself they admitted multiple cases with this problem. The issue is known but the solution not quite. Suggestions ranged from replacing solenoid yo maybe even whole transmission an expense that could go up to $3,000 however, not guaranteeing it will solve the problem. Im debating on the best and wisest way to take care of it. what are the updates with this problem?
2008Oct 16
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
our rav4 auto, started hard shifting,not going into low gear,rev. up going into 3rd gear.real piece of crap and when i read the forums here with $$$$.when i read about dealer resetting emc. i disconnected battery cable ,left it off for 11/2 days (wasn't going anywhere anyways) I'm not advertising for them in any way, but i added a bottle of lucas trans treatment.was told it would take about 200 miles to see if it worked. i then went to a trans shop to tell my woes they did a code scan with nothing showing up.(battery was disconnected and cleared all codes)guy at trans shop told me it would take about 30 miles for computer to reset its self and rav4 would work like s--t til it did reset.well my tale is a happy one so far.s rav4 started shifting like it should.my problem went away just about as quick as it came and i sure hope it lasts.i at least have some hope now while i still think of those $$$$ NO REPAIR costs. hope this helps someone.
2008Oct 06
RAV4 2.0L 4-cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
I am so glad we found this site - at least I know I am not crazy! I am experiencing the same symptoms: not shifting properly between 1st and 2nd AND 2nd and 3rd gears, lurching when moving from Park to Reverse, jerking in traffic, not moving when I let off the brake (from stop, to the chagrin of all drivers behind me) - all makes me scared to drive this car that has been so great! I can't believe Toyota...especially with the large number of complaints about this SAME issue on 2001-2003 models. My husband is looking for a rebuilt transmission and also ECM thanks to the other posts on this site. I had a Honda before and will definitely go back - never buying a Toyota again, and warning everyone I know not to buy either! Please contact me if there is a class-action lawsuit - I will definitely be involved.
2008Sep 25
RAV4 L 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 92,000 miles
hard shifting in my toyota 2001 rav4 cost me 1042 $ from my pocket i was lucky because it didn't damage my transmission .toyota wont cover ecu because i am over 80000 miles if Does anyone know if there is a class action suit regarding the transmission/ECM problem? If so,let me know please
2008Oct 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 95,000 miles
I see a common ECM/tranny theme here that I can relate to. The dealer charged me $100 to tell me that the bad shifting and red light meant a $1300 ECM cost. As I was crying the blues at my church group, a guy that owns a garage said, "I could have given you that info for free. The real problem can sometimes be what they don't tell you." I took it to him to read out and he said the code said it was a problem with the #2 shift solenoid in tranny. He said the dealer knows odds are you'll go to an outside tranny dealer cuz they're much cheaper, so they are just trying to extort money from you before they lose you as a customer. Well, all that sounded so harsh to me that I just dismissed it as someone who had a really biased opinion and economic resentment. WELL GUESS WHAT! He was absolutely right! I went back to the dealer and paid the $1300 ECM cost and there is NO IMPROVEMENT in the shifting and NOW THEY'RE TELLING ME it's the tranny. They won't cover the tranny, so has anyone found any way to pressure them into covering these trannys that should be lasting longer?
2008Sep 28
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 106,500 miles
I have owned this one for almost 8 yrs with no issues. Yesterday noticed sudden jerk while shifting from 1st to second gear. Today it has become worse, car hardly moves in first gear and suddenly slips to 2nd. Then it is normal until I have to stop again.
Fortunately lady driving behind me had lot of patience and didn't honk even once.
Check light has also come on. I thought of checking web and found I am not alone.
Its difficult to believe that only solution is $spend 6000 on ECM + Trans.
I have written to toyota and plan on taking to dealer once I hear something form toyota.
2008Aug 21
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 113,000 miles
Like everyone else i have the same problem with the car jerking so i took it in to get checked out. They told me i had a bad transmission. I can't believe it, i thought Toyota suppose to last. i brought the car without doing much research, but who knew they would put a car on the market when they know there's problem with it. feel like i got ripped off. so i am shopping for a car, but i will not consider buying a toyota again.
2008Sep 08
RAV4 4WD 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
Hello everyone with a toyota RAV4. I always loved my car and always wanted to stay with toyota. After my wonderful adventure today I am not so sure now. I got a recall notice back in march to reprogram the ECM. Not only did it take 2 hours out of my time it still did not fix the check engine light coming on. Well starting today shifting out of first gear scared the sh*t out of me. I have never had the jerking, no power in the gas pedal, clunking noise EVER. Well with doing some research i found that NUMEROUS complaints about the ECM and the transmission. I called the customer care center of toyota and he stated that there are no reports that the two problems are related. He told me I have to convince the dealership that they are one in the same problem. I WILL NOT PAY for this problem considering they are so many complaints about this. How can you tell me there is not a direct relation? Hopefully we can do something about this and make Toyota replace the ECM and fix the transmission at not cost to the consumer. If you have any information regarding this problem PLEASE let me know. Thanks
2008Sep 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 100,503 miles
My 2001 Rav. 4 seems to have the exact same problem with the ECM and Transmission. This to the tune of $6,000!!!!! I am going to get the car back from Toyota and take it to the Triple A diagnostic center (for $35) and see what they come up with. I'm pissed - Really pissed!!! I have 105,000 miles. It was helpful to see everyone else's post. Now at least I'm armed with a bit of info when i deal with the dealer tomorrow. Wish me luck!!
2007Jan 23
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
When the car is started, 1st thing in morning, the transmission will hesitate when attempting to shift into the next gear range. I am compelled to take my foot off the gas pedal in order to make it shift. Once engine (transmission) warms up it appears to stop.
2008Jul 10
RAV4 L 2.0L Vvti
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
I just brought my car to have my oil changed. After a few days the transmission starts skipping and not able to shift up (from 1 to 2) Check engine came on a week later ..
I think Toyota Dealerships should consider fixing the problems......
there are too many complaints with transmission & ECM.
I'm no longer a Toyota fan.
2008Jul 07
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 117,000 miles
I have got the same problem (fault code P0755 - Harsh shifting) what everybody else are reporting here. I did not do any repair yet other than spending one hundred dollars for the diagnostic test from the dealership. Dealer is recommending to replace the Engine Control Module and if that does not fix the problem, replace the transmission itself on my own cost. As everybody else reports here this is not acceptable as this inconvenience that we are all are going through was created by Toyota (by installing faulty ECM's at the first place on 2001 - 2003 RAV4's). I have reported to NHTSA and have also called Toyota customer service. They did not want to listen to any of our / customer concern. She is keep saying your car is out of warranty and Toyota cannot do anything about it. Where else we should report about this so that Toyota will recall the ECM's for all RAV 4's, which has this complaint and reimburse the expenses for people who had spent the money from their pocket already? Did anybody filed a law-suit already? If yes i am willing to join.
P.S. Its good that i have landed on this website before working on the transmission which was recommended by an AAMCO transmission tech. As some of you have suggested let me just replace the ECM first and see if that fix the problem.
2008Jul 14
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
While I enjoy meeting new people with common interests, this is not exactly the place I'd like to be doing it! A few days ago, the check engine light on my '01 rav4 popped on, but I wasn't experiencing any mechanical difficulties. Was hoping maybe a faulty gas cap or something minor, but then yesterday, started experiencing some "skipping" and hesitation while driving. Checked fluids, topped them off, etc..thought maybe bad gas..
This morning the skipping and hesitation lasted all the way to work. I remembered getting something in the mail that i thought may have been a recall, which lead me to the internet and all of you lovely people with lint in your pockets where money used to be! Forgive me for making light of this, but if i don't i may loose my mind...I DO NOT have $5000 to replace these things, particularly when they are the fault of Toyota. I am alway bragging about how dependable my rav is..yeah..not so much!
I spoke to a guy at one of the dealerships and he told me probably $1200 for ECM replacement and I couldn't bare to hear the rest! He said he had one other woman with the same problem, but said she drove her care for a very long time with Engine light on (guess that made it her fault). He also said that it can just happen naturally...I told him we both know it is a defective part and b/c i am over 80,000 miles, I am SOL!!!
I am bringing to my mechanic tonight..if I make it there..and letting him put it on the computer to see what he thinks. I feel like I am just throwing away $90 to get bad news, but what else can i do??
I will post again with the findings and if I am one of the unluckies, I will be more than happy to jump on the legal bandwagon---This is ridiculous and I am tired of getting screwed by companies/people like this. It's bad enough our government does it and we pay through the nose for gas and anything made from, transported by or serviced through petroleum (which is everything)....
Sorry for the rant..just freaking out!
2008Jul 10
RAV4 LE 2.01
- Automatic transmission
- 126,000 miles
I bought this 2001 Rav 4 with 123,000 from single female owner in Feb 08.
She had it regularly serviced including trans. flush at 90,000 and 120,000. No problems noted on invoices other than replacing cat. converter at 40,000.
I brought car into Toyota dealer after a few weeks to have them reset ECU or something according to a recall bulletin that I found when registering the car.
Have to admit, I always thought the transmission shift from 1st to 2nd seemed weak, but it always engaged. Having never owned a Rav before, thought is was just a design quirk.
As in previous complaints, same symptoms of erratic and underpowered shifting appeared out of blue a few days ago. Managed to limp home.
After dropping transmission pan at local trans.repair shop found small bits of metal sticking to magnets in bottom of pan...and cloudy fluid. $3500 quote to install rebuilt transmission....but I am concerned that the problem will reoccur if the malfunction was perhaps electronic in origin. I am not sure how to proceed, before the work begins.
What caused the damage internally? ...........totally disappointed.
2008Jul 07
RAV4 L
- Automatic transmission
- 83,000 miles
I recently had my check engine light go on. Unfortunately, it was over 4th of July weekend and a little hard to get the car into the shop. On Monday morning, I was on my way in to work and the car started shifting really hard. Needless to say it was a tense ride. I would stop at every intersection wondering if the car would start rolling again. I drove straight to our neighborhood mechanic. I found this website on-line and decided to take the car to Toyota when the code P0755 came up on the computer. I went to Toyota armed with the Technical Service Bulletin TC002-06 because of the ECM computer issues. Luckily, the transmission had not yet been damaged!!! However, when it came to the warranty Toyota will only cover 1/2 of the replacement of the computer because it was 3,000 miles out of warranty. I find this appalling! We had customer service representatives admit that the part is defective, but Toyota only covers manufactured defects until the warranty period is up. We also had the service manager tell us not to contact customer service because they would pull the offer! I can't imagine a company not standing behind their product knowing that they are putting customers' lives in danger. They have been completely unhelpful in connecting us to anyone at Toyota that could help us. If this happens to you make sure you take the TSB with you to Toyota. I am sure the slime balls would have sold us a new transmission if we hadn't been aware of the ECM issues.
2008Jun 20
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
Have a history of problems with the ECM... check engine light first appeared when we purchased the vehicle (used) in November 2005. Dealer checked it and told us this was caused by the gas cap not being securely tightened.
Always had problems with getting up steep driveway... engine whines and not much power going up hill. Daughter drives the car to and from school (about 4 miles each way), so never experienced any major issues.. .kind of lacks power and we got used to the whining when shifting. We received the recall notice on the ECM and took the RAV to the dealer to have that problem addressed, but no mention of any other known issues with the ECM.
Over the past few weeks I have been driving the car longer distances, just recently took the RAV over the mountains to Reno and did some shifting in and out of overdrive... not sure if this contributed to the problem. This morning, I drove it about 1-1/2 hours to the airport and back, when backing into the driveway, the transmission "slipped"... this happened twice today, both after driving for more than 30 minutes... when we tested it in the driveway with the engine "cool" this did not happen.
I found the TSB regarding this problem and hope that replacement of the ECM will fix the problem.
2008Jun 02
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 134,700 miles
I took my car to get the ECM Reprogrammed in Nov 2007 based on the letter I got from them stating there was a defect in '01-03 Models, and the software needed to be reprogrammed. Around this time, the shifting problems started. It would slam into gear, and cause a jerking motion. I figured this would fix it. Well, it did absolutely nothing. I lived with it for a few months. In June, the problem was getting progressively worse, the car was shaking above 40mph, and the RPM's were going to 7000, almost redline. So I took it back and was told by the dealer that my computer needed to be replaced, it was not responding at all. The week before I had a transmission flush done in hopes that this would fix the problem. It didn't. So I told them to go ahead and replace it. Anything to get my car moving properly again. Cost me $1,100. On top of that, the dealer claimed I needed a transmission flush (yes, when I just had it done the week before). Got my car back, and it was WORSE THAN BEFORE!! Before, it would eventually kick into gear, but now, it would not shift beyond 2nd gear. I decided, I'm done with the dealer, they don't know crap. So I took it to Aamco to check out the transmission. Well, it couldn't make it on its own, had to get it towed there, for an additional cost. Aamco rebuilt my transmission for $3,500 and now it's running much better. It still has a little kick when changing gears. Total cost to fix this POS, around $5 grand. If anyone is planning a class action lawsuit against Toyota, PLEASE let me know. They should be held responsible for putting in defective ECM's which caused the damage to the transmission. sonya_m28@msn.com
2008May 10
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Hello as you can see I'm a joining the List of MANY Rav 4 owners...
I need some Help I really don't know what to do.. I can't afford this... And it seems like it's not our problem... They Built the car they should be fixing it know that there are this many problems.. I bought my car to the transmission shop the Man looked at my Husband and told him 3,000... because he already knew what they problem was said there was a woman that came in a view months a go with the same problem... The Transmission man told my husband that When Toyota Remodeled the Rav 4's of 2001-2003 that they built them with computers in the Transmission.. and that they are three computers standing alone.. but when one stops working it is the cus of all the other computers and that they can't just repair one they have to change all three.. what a CRAP OF BULL....
HELP
2007Aug 10
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 95,000 miles
This 2001 RAV4 is the 3rd new and 5th Toyota I've owned - all 3 new cars were purchased at the same Toyota dealership. Although I had no success with getting any help/cooperation from the dealership when the problem first started in August 2007 (at approx. 95,000), I take a copy of the complaints found on line to the dealer and spoke to the Sales and Servicing Customer Service manager and insisted that they work with me to resolve this issue before I become a part of a class action lawsuit against the corporation and the dealership as well.
2008Apr 24
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 68,436 miles
Like everyone else my Rav began having problems shifting gears and stalling when trying accelerate from a stop. It occurred for the first time Thursday evening, and I dropped off the car Friday morning. Thanks to the posts placed by others, I was armed with Technical Service Bulletin and demanded that they replace the ECM and not just reset it. I can't figure out the cryptic language they use on their invoices, so I'm not sure what exactly was done. I've left messages, but I have not been able to speak with anyone at the dealership. I've driven the car for nearly 3 days and the problem seems to be "fixed." I guess we'll have to wait and see.
2008Apr 10
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
My wife calls be at work one day and says our 2001 Rav 4 is having shifting problems. I tell her to check the fluid, so she does and says it looks ok. A couple days later, I took it to AAMCO, and they tell me that it is very low on fluid, and the transmission is fried. Now this car had just had a major tune up a couple weeks before and all the fluid levels were checked. Either this happened very fast, or AAMCO is feeding me a line. After searching the web, I suspect there is an ECM issue, so I take the car from AAMCO to the dealer. I gave the dealer the TSB referenced here and tell him it looks like the problem and I need at least an ECM and maybe a transmission as well. The dealer re-flashes the ECM, and says it seems fine. No codes logged, but the car still isn't shifting right. I questioned their analysis but I just got a 20 minute lecture about ECMs, and they say I need a transmission. After calling around, turns out this transmission fails so much that there are no used ones available, and the rebuilt ones are crazy expensive. Reputable transmission shops can't rebuild it for less than about $3000 because it's so complex, so if you get a lower estimate get it in writing, as AAMCO tends not to give you all the bad news until they have your transmission in pieces. Since a new remanufactured toyota unit is only 4,000$ I'm going to go with that and hope to get some good life out of this car. My fear, based on the experience here is that once they get this new transmission in, it won't fix the problem and perhaps the entire issue was ECM only from the beginning. My advice to those with this problem is this:
If you need a transmission, it's going to cost $3k plus for that, even if the initial estimate is less than that.
So don't take it to a transmission shop at first!!! They WILL find all kinds of horrible things in your transmission, they allways do. Try the ECM first, even though its kind of expensive. Remanufactured ECM's are only a few hundred bucks. This is what's recommended in the TSB from Toyota.
The transmission in the RAV is the same one as the Lexus RX, and it fails frequently too. This has made this transmission one of the most expensive to replace. We all paid an up-front premium for Toyota reliability, if you're reading this, you lost that bet. I will open a complaint with Toyota and see if they will do anything.
2008Apr 03
RAV4 4 cyl 4x4
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
so now after talking to Toyota they told me that i had my car in to reflash the ECM back in Dec. 07. What I took it in for was a problem with the ECM with Error codes p0141 p1346 and p1349. This was all about a check engine light due to a bad sensor and has nothing to do with the transmission. They lied to me and my problem is related to a harsh shift condition and the solution is "If the vehicle exhibits the above condition, replace the ECM (PCM)." but Toyota will not cover the cost to fix the transmission due to the faulty computer.
here are the 2 different problems they are having with the damn computer.
http://www.scionlife.com/forums/archive/o_t__t_151836__toyota-rav4-with-check-engine
http://rav4world.com/tsb/2001/TC002-06.pdf
2008Apr 03
RAV4 4 cyl 4x4
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
I have the same problem as everyone. When I talked to the Toyota dealer service center the guy said he had never heard of a Rav4 transmission going out. He then told me that if I had a history of being faithful to the dealership in getting my car serviced they might have been able to help me out. I have always done routine service (like oil changes and brake work etc) so there was no need to go there. I am so angry that the transmission went out just after the warranty expired and now I am out $3400. If anything comes of a lawsuit please count me in, I can't believe that this car has turned into such a POS, I will never buy a Toyota again and will warn my family (who only owns Toyotas) to beware
2008Mar 22
RAV4 2WD 4L
- Automatic transmission
- 108,000 miles
Last Saturday, I went to a fight on the strip in Las Vegas, NV. As I was pulling out onto the strip, I nearly caused an accident due to the jerking of my car. Initially, I thought I had it on the wrong gear, however, I became aware, the car was starting to sound like it was struggling and the kicking became excessive between (0-30 mph). I made it home okay considering, I decided to take the freeway home since their isn't too much stopping.
The next day was Easter so I had to wait until Monday to take it to the shop. On Monday, I brought it into an auto shop just about 3 miles away from my house. The diagnostic came up as "solenoid."
When he called Toyota for the part, they quoted $1495 and were somewhat familiar with the problem. Toyota said their was a service campaign (a.k.a SSC) released for 2001-2003 RAV 4's 80,000 miles or less on the ECM (Engine Control Module) a.k.a the "brain of your car" And these problems do not occur for a majority of our fellow RAV 4 owners until after 100,000. However, this repair only covers reprogramming of the unit, which in turn, STILL DOES NOT FIX THE PROBLEM.
From my thorough research, the faulty ECM for 2001-2002 RAV 4's are causing the transmissions to go bad. However, there has been no blogs or posts on when the ECM actually starts to do damage on the transmission.
Since the problem shifting began, I probably drove my car approximately 12-15 miles. So I'm not sure if the transmission has been affected. All I know is that if I pay for ECM ($1500 for labor and part) there is no guarantee that the transmission will still function, which will end up costing me $3300-3500 for a rebuilt transmission. Which means this unexpected repair will cost me and many other RAV 4 2001-2002 owners, approximately, $5000 to fix. Which comes out to be the Kelly Blue book value of our RAV in good condition.
This seems to be an ongoing issue and I am one to fight for justice. I would suggest all of you who are in the same issue to file a claim with Toyota corporate.
Phone: 800-331-4331
Fax: 310-468-7814
Mon - Fri, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PST
Sat, 7:00 am - 4:00 pm PST
Thank you all for responding to my questions regarding this issue.
2008Mar 20
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
I started having this problem a week ago. I started having shifting problems and a couple of loud bangs so I had the transmission flushed out and then the problem stopped. I drove the car for 5 days and then the problem was back. I brought it to a mechanic and they ran a diagnostic check and no codes came up. They also felt the shifting problem once and then it didn't happen again. I brought my vehicle to a Toyota dealer and as we speak they are driving the vehicle to see if they can duplicate the problem and so far they haven't been able to. When I found this site I was astonished at how many people are having the same issue. The dealer mentioned to me that Toyota came out with a Technical Service Bulletin sometime in 2006 on how to fix this problem and extended the warranty to 80k. There are curtain codes that will tell them if it is the ECM or the Transmission. What do you do if they run a diagnostic check and NO codes come up, what do you do then!!! From what they have told me there is no test they can do to see if its a defective ECM, so what do you do in the mean time, ruin your tranny and then find out it really is the ECM....then your stuck with 2 problems. If no codes are registering should I still replace the ECM??? to be safe, I dont know about any one but I work hard for my money and to just start process of elimination is nuts...
2007Mar 21
(reported on)RAV4 L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
Stopped changing gears and had hard time getting going after stops. Made a banging sound. Took to several mechanics and all agreed it needs a new trans. $3500.++ NEVER used to tow, gently used since I bought NEW. NO MORE TOYOTAS FOR ME. POS
2008Feb 16
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 119,000 miles
My Toyota Rav4, with a mileage of 119,000, has exactly the same transmission problems that you both describe. I have just spent $3320 to replace the transmission and now Toyota tells me that what I really need a new computer module at "$1395 less 10% discount".
The information I have gathered so far is that Toyota has been aware of this problem for at least couple of years. The ECM (Engine Control Module) HAS A DEFECT that, (in layman's language -- I am not technical but I understood what was explained to me):
1) causes the "check engine" light to go on,
and more to the point
2) fails to "balance or rev up the engine" when the vehicles is idling in Drive mode. This loads/puts pressure on the transmission mechanism, causing the car to vibrate/rattle hard while on idle. This eventually wears down the mechanism.
It is my belief that Toyota could have averted the transmission problems we are now having by recalling the affected models and fixing the ECMs. Why should we be spending close to $5,000 for no fault of ours? THE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS ARE NOT DUE TO "NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR". THEY ARE DUE TO A DEFECT OF THE ECM.
2008Jan 28
(reported on)RAV4 Limited
- Automatic transmission
- 78,400 miles
I am having similar problems to what everyone has listed here. The car was shifting hard in the lower gears, so I took it to Aamco Transmissions. They rebuilt the transmission, but problems persisted. The problem persisted and they suggested it may be the computer. I took it to Toyota and let them know what Aamco said. They said there was no computer update, so I took the car back to Aamco. However, about 3 weeks and several rebuilds later, Aamco located the actual TSB that stated the ECM was known to cause the problems I was experiencing. I contacted the dealer, who flat out refused to look at the car again or refund my money from the missed diagnosis. I went to another Toyota dealership, who replaced the ECM under the warranty (per the TSB). Transmission problems still persisted, so I immediately took the car back to Aamco for yet another rebuild. The car is still in the shop, so we will see if this finally fixes the problem. I agree that Toyota should be held responsible for this problem that they are very aware of. Had they replaced the computer back in 2006 when the computer problem was first pointed out to the dealerships, my transmission would not have been damaged and I would not have had the costly repairs that I am currently experiencing. Has anyone been successful in fixing the problem or getting Toyota to cover the costs associated with the defect int his car?
2007Oct 02
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 121,000 miles
I have a 2001 toyota rav 4. It started having shifting problems in oct 07. so i took it to toyota dealer, said replacement of catalytic converter, and tranny replacement, i did the catalytic converter at 1100 at the toyota dealer. went to outside tranny shop for trans rebuilt. at 2800.00. on the way home from tranny shop, still doing the same thing. took back to dealer, NOW he says my rebuilt tranny is no good, due to the tranny shop, not replacing the ecu(computer) and tranny at the same time, im out of 3900, and they want another 4700, for ecu, and tranny..i am at a loss for words as to how mad I am. I wish toyota, would have told me, about the ecu and tranny needing to be replaced at the same time. Come to find out, the ecu may have contributed to the catalytic converter not working properly. Who do I complain to about this , as i now see, its an ongoing toyota problem.....
2007Oct 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 109,983 miles
I can see I'm not alone with this issue. Having the exact same problem as everyone else. My 2001 Rav4 starting having rough shifts in first gear, engine revving but going no where. Took to highly recommended transmission shop, solenoid changed and $600 later problem still happening. Told it needed ECM reset, took to Toyota dealer and told I needed new ECM at $2200 because extended warranty expired (have 108,993 miles). Since I was just told this yesterday, I'm glad I didn't run out and have the ECM replaced right away. Seems this fix doesn't work... has anybody had any luck yet?
2007Oct 15
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 140,000 miles
first the check engine light comes on after being fixed, returns 7months after recall with i was not under. the code wasP0420-RAN this was traced to the left and right front 02 sensors. so i was told to replace engine air filter and do fuel induction cleaning service total 174.20 if the light comes back 645.00 for 02sensor replacement (is that for one or two?) next tech said shifts hard from 2nd to 3rd gear. trans wearing internally 3,636.00 used. on the highway i heard a loud thump like a pop i asked did something just fall off that we could replace? i just believe it that you'll never get 250,000 miles on the next generation toyota's
2007Sep 28
(reported on)RAV4 L 2.0L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
I'm so glad I looked here before getting this fixed. Mine has exactly the same problems described by others, surfacing at just over 100,000 miles. It started out as an annoying, intermittent rough-shifting problem, but I had to continue driving it over a few weeks' time, until it was finally so bad that I was worried I wouldn't make it home. I took it to a Trans. specialist who drove it with a diagnostic computer, and said it "did not demonstrate the problem". But on the way home, it was worse than ever. A simple diagnostic scanner (my brother works on cars) indicated "shift solenoid" as the issue. Scanned on several different occasions, it often showed that TWO solenoids were bad. My plan was finally to break down and buy the solenoids (couple hundred dollars each) and have them replaced. Now after reading these complaints, I'm going to have to do a lot more research.
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2009Mar 27
RAV4
I'm having problems with my 2001RAV4. First it would hard shift from 1st to 2nd, then my check engine light came on. I took it into Aamco and they charged me $700 to open it up to see what was wrong. They then proceeded to tell me it was going to cost $4,128 to fix it, by replacing the transmission and I can't remember what else they told me had to be replaced. I was pissed! Here I am retired, thinking I wouldn't have to buy another automobile and shame on me. I don't have that kind of money laying around. I need help on the class action suit against Toyota.
Sandra G.
Portsmouth, VA, USA
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