8.9
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,289.00
Average Mileage:
95,218 miles
Total Complaints:
100 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (42 reports)
- rebuild the transmission, replace ECM (29 reports)
- rebuild the transmission (10 reports)
- replace ecm (9 reports)
- replace computer engine (6 reports)
- re flash computer (3 reports)
transmission problem
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Toyota dealer.
Helpful Websites About 2002 Toyota RAV4 problems shifting
2009Sep 04
RAV4 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 74,300 miles
I want to mention this first- If you think your RAV is not shifting properly, even if it seems like a slight problem, do not drive it or you will ruin the transmission.
Like many other people with a 2002 RAV4. We started noticing that our vehicle wasn't shifting properly. I had suspected something was wrong for months. Sometimes it seemed like at the 2nd-3rd shift point there would be a slightly longer engagement than normal. Then in September while I was driving home from a short trip after getting off the hwy and back into town, I noticed a slight slip going from 2-3rd gear after being stopped at a stop light. I knew then that there was definitely a problem. It was just a slight slip with no harsh engagement. I was totally puzzled as to why the transmission would be failing. I know Toyota manufactures great transmissions and I had done proper maintenance. I've successfully rebuilt several automatic transmissions. I did some web searches for rebuild kits, because I knew the trans would soon be toasted. It doesn't take very much slippage to ruin the friction plates. And the friction material clogs the valve body causing more problems. I stumbled upon this website and a huge amount of other info about the ecm causing the trans to operate improperly and ruining the transmission. I found the Toyota TSB(technical service bulletin) TC002-06 that explains the problem. We've had other problems, some out of warranty, which our local Toyota dealership has taken care of at no cost or substantially lower cost than normal. To say the least, they are a very good dealership. So I was optimistic that they would take care of the problem, especially since we were still within the warranty period. We went to the dealership armed with the TSB and printed web pages showing the amount of problems with the ecm. And we were planning on filing a complaint with the IL State Attorney General if they would't agree to replace the ecm. To our relief they agreed to replace the ecm under warranty at no cost even though the RAV was showing no trouble codes, nor could they replicate the problem. The new ecm remedied the problem. We were relieved, because the warranty coverage doesn't include the transmission. It had been shifting improperly for quite awhile, just not bad enough for it to be blatantly obvious. We can tell the difference now, it shifts like new. Even though we had a positive outcome I wanted to post in case it may help in some way. I guess my complaint is that they didn't do a recall. I am mad that Toyota is willing to let this slide. This problem could very well cause someone to get killed. I'm mad that we were driving an unsafe vehicle and didn't have a clue. I know from reading other posts that there have been close calls. And a lot of people have had to shell out thousands of dollars.
If you are out of warranty and your dealership won't help you, print all of these complaints, the TSB, etc...and file a complaint with your State Attorney General. This is definitely a consumer safety issue. I think this becomes a consumer fraud issue too, when Toyota is selling replacement transmissions for thousands of dollars because of a manufacturing defect that they are completely aware of. Just follow the money.
2009Sep 11
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 47,717 miles
I am the latest victim of the Toyota Rav4 transmission problems. Our car started experiencing problems with shifting gears overnight. The cars gears would not engage in traffic and was outright dangerous. This problem occurred on a car that has been kept in excellent condition and has been driven a total of 47,717 miles. The transmission had to be rebuilt on the Rav4 to the tune of $2,284.56 and Toyota will not reimburse for the repair cost. At the Toyota corporate office, the reply has been, "I am sorry the car is out of the warranty period".
I will never purchase or recommend the purchase of a Toyota product again. I has been loyal to the Toyota brand for over 13 years and have owned 3 different Toyota vehicles. The reason I purchased the 2002 Toytoa Rav4 was because I expected reliability and dependability for a very, very long time. Toyota obviously does not stand for legendary dependability and reliability any longer.
The mechanic that rebuilt my transmission told me the transmission failure was due to a faulty computer that Toyota puts in the Rav4. The computer tells the transmission to shift at the wrong intervals and the parts inside the transmission wear out prematurely. When our Rav4 was taken to the dealership to have the computer re-programmed by the transmission mechanic, Toyota replaced the computer under warranty. But Toyota corporate told me their was noting wrong with the computer and the computer did not make the transmission fail?
We now have a 2 year warranty on our rebuilt transmission but I intend to sell or trade in both of my Toyota cars and choose a brand that will be reliable, dependable and stand behind their product. I am extremely disappointed in the Toyota brand and the response to my complaint.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Sep 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 101,100 miles
Like everyone else on this site, I had the exact same problem. My 2002 Rav4 would not shift properly. After transmission flush, talking to dealer (4500.00 quote), and searching the net for solutions, I found the answer. On E-bay is a listing called "checkengine.com"
located in New York. They have figured out that it is a design flaw. (Toyoya knows this and that is why they only warranty it up to 80,000 miles). I was skeptical to say the least, but I figured the 250.00 they required would be a drop in the bucket compared to 4500++ from the dealer. I just put the repaired ECM in and it WORKS!! I am very pleased. It shifts like it is brand new. Their site shows you how to take out the ECM. It was very simple. I strongly suggest you all do the same as I did. You will not be disappointed. Good Luck, and feel free to contact me regarding questions, comments, concerns.
Update from Sep 30, 2009: my apology - the correct site is check engine, etc. out of brooklyn, n.y.
2009Jul 08
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 71,210 miles
Just like everyone else that has a Rav 4, transmission problems and my dealer would not help me. I took it in when I started having the jerking, stalling out ( almost got rear-ended ) not shifting. I had no idea what the heck was going on. It was going to cost me over $4000 with the dealer and they did not tell me anything about having problems and tried to blame it on where I have my oil change. Still cost me $3000.00 to get it fixed.
Took it to a transmission shop and still had to fork out $3,000. As of 9/8/09 I am having to spend another $200 on sensor my check engine light came on. Took it to Advanged Auto Parts where they didn't charge me to check it. But with Toyota I had to make an appointment and I forget how much they were going to charge me. Will not ever buy another Toyota anything. If they won't stand behind there vechicle when they know that they have a problem, lets get the word out. There will be on sign on my rav 4 soon.
DON'T BUY A TOYOTA !!!
2009Jul 05
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
Add me to the list of 2002 transmission problems with the Toyota Rav 4. I had 104,000 miles when mine started acting up & not wanting to shift...as if the emergency brake was on. Sometimes it run smooth & other times not. When I had it looked at, nothing showed up on the diagnostic test. I had the throttle positioning sensor changed & it still didn't fix the problem. This is my 3rd Toyota and my family have had several so we are very loyal customers. Not now though. I did contact Toyota's 800 number along with emailing them but that was no help. I got referred back to the dealer where I bought it. That did me no good since I don't live in the same town anymore. Luckily too I found this website with all the complaints so it's a good thing the internet gives us options like this now to find things out. I ended up trading the vehicle in and didn't get a good trade in because of the situation. It was very upsetting. You'd think a company like Toyota would do something. They lost a good customer...
I traded it in on a Honda CRV.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009May 14
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I have been a loyal Toyota owner for 29 years because I have never had a problem with my cars until now. I bought my RAV4 new in January 2002 and have always done regular maintenance. 110,000 miles and I still loved this car until now. My RAV started to have the same problems complained of- shifting from first to second with the engine revving. Check engine light coming on. The transmission shop said they rebuilt the transmission but the problem continues. I had the diagnostic test done and it said to replace solenoid B. Transmission shop said they replaced it but I took it back the 4th time when it still wasn't fixed. Then they said it needed a new computer and that Toyota had done a recall on this because of the problem but that my car would not be covered because it had so many miles on it. WTF?
Still not fixed and my repair guy (who I trust) said will need to replace solenoid A too. I am now out $1425 and my car still does not run right and I can't afford any more repairs. I love my Toyotas but will never buy another one if the Company does not step up to the plate, do a recall and reimburse me for the unneceesary expenses that I would not have incurred had they done the recall in the first place!
2008May 30
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 125,000 miles
My 02 rav4 was the perfect buy until this problem occurred. The transmission acts like it does not want to shift between first and second gear. When it finally does engage in 2nd gear, the engine has revved to 5000RPM and then clunks hard into 2nd gear.
The check engine light registers a problem with the transmission solenoids A & B.(where the shifting is controlled between 1st and 2nd gear). The dealership service manager said the tranny replacement would be $4000; and the ECM would be $1500. Needless to say this was way too costly and my rav4 had well passed the 80k mile warranty threshhold. I had the the guys at AAMCO check it out and said they could replace the transmission and the ECM for about &1000 cheaper than the dealer quoted.
To date July 2009, the problem still occurs, since I dont just have $5k under my pillow to throw at the problem.
I just want Toyota to reinstill in me and other owners the reason why we bought Toyota in the first place....the renowned quality and reliability. We all know that this is obviously a manufactering problem, since Toyota transmissions are supposed to be good for 200k miles without any issues(pending proper service intervals). They should issue a recall on all these malfunctioning lemon transmissions.
2009May 20
RAV4 ES 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I am experiencing the same problems the other 91 people complained about. It's poor design and poor engineering that has resulted in this issue. Lets step up to the plate toyota and "make a diffrence" because this individual will not purchase another vehicle from you. I truley hope that if you own a Toyota your transmission does not fail you while your family is in the car and a Semi runs you over. That vwould be a shame. Lets not let this happen. Lets be accountable and fix waht is clearly wrong..
2009Jun 10
RAV4 LX 4
- Automatic transmission
- 95,000 miles
This is a problem that the 2002 Toyota RAV4 have with the transmission and Toyota knows of the problem, but refuses to have a recall. The car is in a Toyota dealership and they have no idea what the problem is. We searched the internet and found that thousands of people have had the same problem. Toyota sent a technical notice to the dealers about the problem, but will not cover the problem. Many have spent thousands of dollars on repairs that were not necessary and did not fix the problem. If you have had the same problem, please contact Toyota in California to report the problem. The problem starts around 80000 miles.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jun 14
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 93,000 miles
I have the same problem as all these other victim here, I don't know why people don't know much about this site, it would have saved me a lot of problems with the car. I've been having problems with this car since I got it, I keep the car very clean, it looks like a 2005 or 2006 that's how clean I keep it but it's been giving me problems all the time on the transmission with shifting and speed.
Why do we keep buying Toyota crap, F@#$#$ those people, not under warranty either.
I am very frustrated with this car. Why didn't I get that Honda CRV I was looking at? man, too bad
2009May 10
RAV4 L 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I have a 2002 Rav4 with 110 K miles and a few weeks ago the car started hesitating when stepping on the gas and the transmission revved really high before shifting from gear 2-3. I took it to the mechanic and he states it may be the ECM or transmission. He said I might need to replace the ECM first and see if that takes care of problem. After reading all the problems people have been having it's definitely a manufacturing defect and I think toyota needs to take some responsibility. I bought the car bring new and just got done paying for it. Now I expect a $25K car to have better quality than this. I am calling the customer service hotline to complain. 1-800-331-4331... I'll see what they have to say.
Update from Aug 19, 2009: Finally replace the ECM $900 and now the car doesnt even go into gear 1 anymore. The car still jerks when putting transmission into reverse. Engine light is still on. I think the transmission may need replacement too. Wow never thought a 6 year old car with only 115K would have this kind of problem. My 15 year old 94 Honda civic transimission is still going over 180K miles with no problems. Will not consider rebuying Toyota again....................
2009Apr 24
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 101,159 miles
Went packing to the TOYOTA dealer nearest me and was told that they could not do anything unless the check engine light came on. So I decided to leave the car with them and they would drive it around until the check engine light came on and plug their electronic reader and check the code. Went home and checked the Internet and discovered the horrors of other owners who spent thousands more and had their transmissions changed but came across a helpful person who suggested to replace the ECM and fixed all his problems. Went and picked the RAV4(baby) up from the dealers on the weekend and my husband removed and cleaned the ECM. Seemed to work a bit better but still revving and no Over Drive. He ordered the ECM and replaced it AHHHHH!
Purrs like a kitten.
Thanks for the ear or eyes in this case.
Marina from Montreal
2009Apr 03
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 101,159 miles
Issue # 2 check engine light came on and transmission guy said replace the solenoid according to the code from electronic reader. Changed the solenoid but problem was worse he mentioned that there may be a problem with the mechanical parts of the transmission. When I went to pick up the car and refused to pay for solenoid that did not correct the problem, he charged me for labour and sent me packing to the Toyota dealer down the street and mentioned thet it was most likely the ECM that needed replacing according to the Toyota dealer he spoke to that morning.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Mar 27
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 100,973 miles
First noticed shifting problem when engine would rev to 6000 rpm and then engage with a nice kick in the rear. Went to transmission specialist who said the shifter cable needed replacing ( $ 600.00).
2009Apr 17
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 84,000 miles
PLEASE ALL 2002 TOYOTA RAV4 OWNERS WHO ARE EXPERIENCING THESE ECM/SHIFTING PROBLEMS, CALL THE TOYOTA CUSTOMER LINE AT 1-800-331-4331 AND VOICE A COMPLAINT...I called them and they said they have to have a certain number of complaints before they can do a recall or the testing necessary for a recall (they wouldn't tell me how many). They need to take responsibility for this travesty.
There are too many of us experiencing the exact same problems with this car. My 2002 RAV4 started having the shifting problems last week. I had the transmission fluid flushed...I had a top engine cleaning to remove buildup in the throttle (my dumba*** dealership even told me at first that my car mat was getting in the way of the accelerator and that was adding to the problem, what a joke). Then they finally came back and said that the ECM had to be replaced but it was only under warranty up to 80,000 miles and my car is at 84,000 miles. It will cost $1300 for the repairs. Then they actually told me that I should think about trading the car in. Apparently, they know how serious this problem is and that it may never be truly fixed.
How are we supposed to trade in a "lemon" and get any decent payback? I just want Toyota to reimburse me for these repairs when they recall this piece of sh***!!! (They told me they would reimburse for these repairs if this problem is recalled by them so hold on to your receipts, fellow 2002 RAV4 owners).
2009Apr 18
RAV4 4 cyl.
- Automatic transmission
- 68,500 miles
I am in the process of locating the Technical Service bulletin to support the 8yr - 80,000 mile warranty coverage. My major problem is shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear as it "flares" (a term used by a transmission repair company) meaning it the engine races and the speed does not increase. I have been told that a new transmission was needed at a cost of $4,000 by Aamco and another repair shop. Neither mentioned that the problem may be caused by the power control module.
2009Apr 20
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 87,000 miles
How come you, Atlanta Toyota Dealer Technician, are not sure about the problem. Here they said , Customer state engine seems to jitter on accel.. road test found rough shift 2nd to 3rd..needs shift ECU replacement first$1166,50 if that doesn't fix it will also need transmission.
This the second time already, and two months ago when my check engine light came on, they said Catalyst converter needed replacement for $ 960 no warranty, but after two hours the guy came back and said this is under warranty so you must pay $ 288,50 for the labor only (was real Cat Converter really bad and replaced??????or technician's diagnosis wrong and cost me $ 288,50) and now the real problem is coming???? .This toyota 2002 needs to be RECALLED.....no MORE buying toyota cars, HONDA is much better.
2009Apr 07
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 200,000 miles
I want to know if there are any law suits going on with Toyota about the transmission or ECM problems on the 2002 RAV4. I'm staring to have the same jerking shifting problems with my 2002 RAV4 but I also have almost 200,000 miles on it. I want to try to get it fixed but after reading all the horror stories I don't know where to begin or who to take it to. It started last night then when I drove it this morning it seemed much better but i still know there's a problem and, by the way, my check engine light has not come on. Can anyone help me decide what to do?
2009Mar 13
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
I am experiencing the same problem as you guys. I took my 2002 RAV4 in for the recall. Two months later I have spent $380.00 at Elmhurst Toyota for flushing the transmission and cleaning the fuel injection system. $2,700 for a rebuilt transmission and I am still experiencing the same problem. car will not shift and gears. I called the Toyota customer service and spoke to them about the issue and all I received was an apology. I agree with all of you - Toyota should upgrade this recall from placing a bandage on the festering ECM problem and just replace the ECM. Toyota should want to become known for going the extra mile and solving our problems instead of ducking us on such a small matter. The name and integrity (TOYOTA) of the company should mean more to them than saving a few thousand dollars.
Mary A. Brown
Chicago, IL
2009Mar 12
RAV4 V4
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
As a customer of Toyota, my wife and I are disappointed in the vehicle we have purchased. The Toyota Rav is only 7 years old and we need a new transmission. I have had 5 brand new cars in my life so far and never needed a new transmission installed as a maintenance problem with my cars. The Toyota was not in any kind of accident. I was told by my the technician it was due to transmission fluid being low. Kindly do not call my phone number unless you will do something for me to financially compensate for my repair costs. I do not want an apologetic phone call. I'm sure you want to hear from customers input. I just think Toyota could do a better job of building their products than this. To have bought this brand new and it only has 79000 to this date, I can't believe we need to replace the transmission. After the transmission was replaced 4 days ago, driving home today, it started going thru the same thing, the gear mildly started slipping off and have to give some acceleration on gas and started jerking then drive off okay after that but hesitate to drive further so brought it back in to the Toyota dealership where they replace the transmission 4 days ago and have it check again!!!!!!!!! I can't believer I paid $3100 and problem still exists. I have to wait for their call today to see what is going on. Very frustrated and disappointed about the Toyota product. I can't believe there is no recall on the transmission for this since a lot of people have complained about the same problem.
2009Mar 03
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
Our 2002 Rav4 started "freewheeling" sometimes between 1-2 and 2-3 shifts, usually under normal, steady acceleration from a stop. There were no stored codes in the PCM. After proper diagnosis was made (by me), I determined that the PCM drivers for the "SL2" solenoid were not passing enough current to keep the solenoid in the correct position, therefore after one holding device (internal to transaxle) was turned off, the followup holding device wasn't engaging at the right time. Luckily this didn't go on long enough to cause any noticeable internal damage to the trans. I replaced the PCM and now the trans shifts normally. The PCM has recently changed part numbers (again) and has come down in price from about $1200 to about $750 MSRP. I would like to see this issue become involved in a recall as Toyota has a strong history of recalling known issues (unlike the Big Three); sadly I think too much time has passed to expect a helping hand, and the collateral damage done to transaxles that have been driven in this condition for too long would make this a mighty big endeavor dollarwise. Add to that the incredible number of expensive misdiagnosis that have made the mitigation of this defect much more difficult and expensive than it needs to be, and I'm quite certain Toyota will never release a recall for the 01-03 U140F shifting issues.
The overwhelming bulk of the stories here -- about 75 of them just for 2002 Rav4s -- detail incompetent diagnosis, wasted time, wrong/expensive parts thrown mindlessly at these problems until there is only one part left to throw. This is sad testament to the state of training, competence, and concern within the auto repair trade. I say this based on the fact that there could have been a large percentage of entries detailing a simple PCM replacement and the resultant complaint of how the $1200 part plus diagnosis and labor should have been covered under a recall. Instead, most of the entries start off with how much they paid for a transaxle that didn't fix the problem, or a valve body, or solenoids, or fluid flushes, or whatever. Perhaps saddest is the advice from some shops to "have the dealer reflash the PCM". Exactly how is a re-flash (updated logic or ROM) that's designed to cure one of several driveablilty issues going to fix the failed driver(s) or damaged PC board on the PCM? Further, why would a shop take in a Toyota and pretend to be able to diagnose it when they can't? If they were properly equipped, they would already own one of at least a dozen reasonably priced tools on the market to reflash Toyota PCMs, and if they had stepped up to the plate by purchasing said tooling, it stands to reason that they would be competent enough not to suggest a re-flash to fix a computer hardware issue.
People, stop going to crap shops. Get second opinions. Dealers aren't all good nor are they all bad. The same is true of independent shops. Find the shops in your area that charge on the higher side of average, then rule out the ones that aren't neat and orderly looking, then find one of the remaining ones that can prove that they buy the proper tools and employ/train good, caring techs to work on the make of car that *you* drive. I promise you will spend much less $ over your lifetime by using a high quality, conscientious shop verses a bottom feeder independent or a poorly run dealership.
2009Feb 16
RAV4 FWD
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
my car started jerking in & out of gear in February. i called about my warranty & San Francisco Toyota told me to bring it in & they would check it, cost $152. when i went to pick it up, it now needed a new transmission at the cost of $4800, not covered on warranty. i remembered that there was a recall on the engine control module in 2007, which they re calibrated. they said the ecm was now working fine.
i paid my $152 bill, took the car out of there, and went to an automatic transmission shop. the owner tested it & said it was the emc. he then took it to another Toyota dealer & even took the service manager on a test drive to show him the problem. they agreed & replaced the ecm, which was covered on warranty, up to 80,000 miles.
i contacted san francisco Toyota for a refund on my bill & also money that i spent on a rental car for a week. they were extremely uncooperative until i 'yelped' them & also wrote a letter to the main office in Torrance, California. i immediately got a check for $152 & a gift certificate for the $210 i spent on a rental car.
right now my Toyota is running fine, but i'm not sure i trust it to stay that way. i also think Toyota should do a recall on this make & model.
2008Jun 24
RAV4 2WD
- Automatic transmission
- 93,000 miles
In June of '08, I took the car in for the hard shift to 3rd and the check engine light was on. They gave me the story about the ECU needing to be replaced. I told them I didn't have the money. I then went to a recommended mechanic who read out the check engine light and printed out for me a TSB about the #2 solenoid in the tranny - THEY NEVER MENTIONED THAT AT THE DEALERSHIP!, I went back to the dealer anyway figuring maybe that guy had a beef with them. They just took my money for the ECM and THEN told me, "Sorry, it must be the tranny". Now I don't have the money to get a tranny and numerous calls to corporate gave me nothing cuz I'm at 96,000 miles so I'm just going to have to sell the car as is. They clipped me $1,300 for the ECM and THEN told me it must be the tranny. They never disclosed the code about the tranny solenoid, instead they lead me to believe that the ECU interfaced with the tranny and it would probably fix the problem. I suspect they could tell from the code that it would probably need the tranny and since most people probably go to an independent tranny specialist for half the price, they thought they would at least clip me for the $1,300 before they lost me as a customer.
2009Jan 15
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 70,723 miles
That's you can trust to exchange whatever experience you have and you want to know. It's because there's no conflict of interest.
2008Dec 27
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 79,600 miles
I starting experiencing shifting problems, seemed when the car was cold, on this particular Saturday afternoon my car just would not shift to third gear, it bucked really hard then went into gear, I knew I had a problem. I had and hour drive to get home, proceeded to get on the highway the car would not shift and the engine light came on, I ended up getting the car towed to my mechanics, they did a diagnostic and they knew it was a shifting problem but they were not sure exactly what the problem was, lucky for me they didn't jump the gun and say I needed a new transmission, long story short, I went online that evening and found this web sight that was so helpful, I contacted my mechanic told them about the Technical Service bulletin that was posted March 2006, they looked it up and told me to contact the Toyota dealer and that my car should be under the warranty, (8yrs or 80,000 mi)
I did contact Toyota, first service guy acted like he did not know what I was talking about until I proceed to tell him about TSB, told me to bring my car in, they did replace the ECM (engine control module) no charge and so far the car seems ok, I did read in the bulletin that even with the replacement I could possibly need a new transmission, I'm hoping not. I hope this complaint helps others that are experiencing the same problem.
2009Jan 02
RAV4 L 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 113,000 miles
At 113,000 miles, our RAV4 developed the same problems mentioned on this site (clunk when shifting into reverse, starting out in 2nd rather than 1st gear, and problems shifting). I took the car to a dealership and their first recommendation was to replace the transmission ($4,000). I asked about the 2006 TSB and why they wouldn't replace the ECM first since it was the less expensive repair and they couldn't be certain that the transmission had been damaged (I also threw in a complaint that a known defect like this should trigger a recall). After some hemming and hawing, they came back with a $1,300 estimate to replace the ECM. Doing a little web searching, I came across a brand new ECM at Texas Toyota of Grapevine (toyotaofgrapevine.com) for $850.73 plus $15 shipping. I paid the $90 diagnostic charge at the dealership (I am now kicking myself for taking it to them to begin with), took the car home, and replaced the ECM myself (it's located behind the glove compartment). It took about 20 minutes using a 10mm socket and a short Phillips screwdriver. Car now works great. The trick appears to be to replace the ECM before any damage is done to the transmission. Good luck!
2007Jun 10
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 62,628 miles
After 3500 bucks the trans still sh*t ! I'm f*cked, I hope you still have time.
If someone try's to sell you a 2002 Rav4 punch them and run like hell !
It has been the worst car I have ever owned :(
TOYOTA, JUST SAY NO
2008Oct 08
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 62,733 miles
On October 8, 2008, I took my Rav4 back to the dealership with the same complaints about my transmission. How odd i thought it was that the transmission had been replaced twice and i am STILL experiencing problems! I loved this car and it was always so sweet and peppy, but now i had to make sure i had plenty of room before pulling into traffic since i never knew when it would finally kick into gear! To compound the issue, I live in Maryland and my emissions test was due. I had to get two extensions already because my car was always in the shop. Looked like I'd just have to get another extension.
so i brought it back to the dealership and had to go through the same routine, yet again. at this point, i was still very friendly with them, however, i think they were getting very frustrated with the whole situation...especially Jim, the parts manager at my warranty place (MacCare.) See, my mechanic, Allen, at the Toyota dealership and Jim, from MaxCare, disagreed with how to remedy this problem. Allen felt that the rebuilt transmissions thus far were inferior because they were not factory rebuilt. eventually Jim acquiesced, and the third replacement transmission was a more expensive Toyota rebuilt transmission. AND, instead of resetting the ECU (my apologies, but i have no idea what that is), the warranty company opted to have it replaced. They were really trying to fix this problem... and they put a LOT of money into it thus far!
(more problems with my transmission!!! adding yet another complaint!)
2008Nov 14
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 62,823 miles
At around 60,000 miles, my Toyota Rav4 starting having transmission problems that went from bad to worse. I am currently in the throes of this issue, and am about to get my 4th transmission in fewer than 900 miles. (there are three previous complaints on this site)
Today is November 17, 2008. On November 11, 2008, I picked up my car from it's October 8th drop-off, thinking (hoping) I would not be back for a while. I drove it Wednesday to and from my commuter parking lot and again on Thursday. By Friday, it began exhibiting the same transmission problems it�s been exhibiting since July, 2008.
I am SO SAD!!! I can't afford a new car right now and Toyotas are supposed to last forever! I've had Pintos, Chevy's, Isuzu's, Nissan's, Escorts, and more. I have NEVER had this much issue with a car.
The third time the transmission failed, my mechanic strongly suggested to my warranty company (MaxCare), that the transmission be replaced with a Toyota re-manufactured transmission, and that perhaps it was the reasons for the continued failures.
The warranty company agreed, and even went a step further to give the car a brand new ECU unit.
I've called Toyota again, I called the dealership from whom I bought the car, and am getting ready to write a letter to Maryland's Attorney General.
THIS IS RIDICULOUS! I HAVE BEEN WITHOUT A CAR FOR 4 MONTHS!!!! HELP!
2008Nov 23
RAV4 Silver 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 118,000 miles
I noticed a problem with the transmission on Sunday 11/23/08. The vehicle all of a sudden felt like I was driving with the parking brake on. I took it to a local mechanic who felt the same. He thought I just had my parking brake stuck. Brought it back the next day because a shifting problem that was extremely dangerous (driving 20mph and unable to shift to pick up speed). I have the car at the same mechanic today (11/26) who now knows it is a transmission problem. I am awaiting my diagnosis and can already feel the pain. Toyota should have done something a while back when the first complaints came in. From what I read it seems like many 2002 Rav4 owners have had to go back many times to get it fixed for an average of about $3,000!!!! Why buy a Toyota? - Pissed in Syracuse, NY
2008Oct 01
RAV4 V4
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Minding my own business, vacation on California coast, tranny would not shift down or up without jerking. On Monday I take it to "best mechanics in Fresno" "AAA approved", they say needs new shift solenoid, only cost $300 plus labor, oops still doesn't work, needs new solenoid Valve body, only cost $625 for a REBUILT one!. Friday 4:30 pm,"come get it it works fine". only cost $1700 to fix. So I drive it two miles home and park it. Saturday I drove it another three miles, oops same exact problem. Next Monday call and had a chat with mechanic, take it back. He calls Monday, says his friend at Toyota told him about recall on Main Brain, causing tranny problem. They re-flash it and it cured the problem. (at least they didn't charge for that)
I bought the car new, it is serviced regularly at Toyota dealer, not once did I receive notice of the very common problem. Cost me $1700 to find out about it. NOT FAIR!
Last Toyota I'll ever own, and I will be finding a new garage.
2008Aug 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 96,934 miles
I would like to add my 2003 Rav4 complain in this because after hearing from my dealer that my Rav4 would possibly have the same ECU as the 2002 Rav4.
After reading this forum and the forum from 2002 Rav4, this is exactly what I've experienced.
http://www.carcomplaints.com/Toyota/RAV4/2002/transmission/problems_shifting.shtml
Sometime in August 2008, we've experience the jerking mentioned in 2002 Rav4. Exactly the same for my model 2003 Rav4. I'm guessing that the early 2003 Model had the same ECU as 2002 Models. There were occasions where me and my wife almost got hit due to the jerking. Basically, the jerking slows you down and unable to pickup speed in time. When we were about to turn, we went so slow that almost got hit by another car.
So, knowing that not to trust the dealers first, I went to Canadian Tire to get it fixed. Turns out that the solenoid is giving some error code. After calling Toyota to buy the solenoid so that my mechanic dad could fix it, Toyota needs to take a look to determine which solenoid is broken since there's 4 kinds. So I brought it in on August 2008 and they've found out that ECU needs to be replaced. So I paid almost $1000 for the parts/labor and was assured that the problem will go away. I didn't register the car until 2 weeks ago and found out that the problem is still there. So I came back to Toyota and complained. They've diagnosed it but found no problem. Test drove it and found out the poor acceleration and later determined that the floor mat was on the way of the gas pedal. As I went to pick it up, I was billed for $120 for the diagnostics. So I was so angry and wanting to complain but the service department is already closed and I'm unable to bring out my car without paying. So, I paid and wanting to complain the following day thinking that all I have to deal with is getting my money back. BUT as I drive it the following morning, problem re-occurs. Therefore, it's not the stupid floor mat that's causing my grief. So I came back and complained again. This time, I was really angry. I felt like I'm being fooled.
So, I went to the internet for answers. I feel so bad for service department clerks/managers to put up with complaining customers regarding this issue. But then it's their job. The result of my research was an eye opener and made me angry at Toyota as a company instead. This problem should have initiated a recall - causing a very dangerous vehicle to drive on the road. What I don't understand is why are the customers shouldering the expense if the ECU was defective in the first place? As per the other posts, this defective ECU would result the transmission to be replaced if not fixed right away.
So now, I'm stuck with the bill of ECU replacement ($1000), Transmission replacement($6000), diagnostics charge for checking the engine and moving the floor mat ($120), and lastly the frustration ($priceless).
So far, the dealership has treated me okay but would like for them to shoulder the costs for the ECU ($1000) and refund my $120 for moving the floor mat/doing diagnostics. As per the transmission replacement, I think it's something I have to accept but would really have been prevented if the ECU was recalled.
I'm going to file a complain through the Better Business Bureau and Toyota Corporate just to make Toyota aware that they should recall the damn thing. I need this car to be fixed so I could upgrade to another one i.e. Highlander. But it will all depend on how my issue with Toyota is going to be resolved. If it's not reasonable, I will send a mass email to everyone I know NOT to buy TOYOTA!!!
2008Sep 24
RAV4 L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
I have absolutely loved my Toyota Rav 4. We have had a few strange problems with it-but I have loved it. I have told everyone to buy Toyota's and to even go see the dealer at our local toyota dealer-This was until this week when after getting my oil changed suddenly it was having trouble shifting from first to second gear. The ride was jerking and it was having trouble accelerating. I thought what is happening-I was planning on driving it until it had well over 200,000 miles-Having no car payment is wonderful and it has been so reliable. We were told it needs a whole transmission-debating on whether or not to get it fixed we happened upon this site and now am annoyed that seems to be a rather common problem and that it may have been known by the company who decided to not inform us or do anything about it. We are headed to the dealer to have words with them and then if it appears it is a problem with the toyota company you can be sure that we will no longer be recommending them!!
2008Aug 08
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 93,300 miles
Dear All,
I would like to warn everybody about Toyota Rav4's 2002. As you can tell from all the comments below there is a serious problem happening with this specific Toyota model and year. Thousands of customer are suffering from this unfair manufacture's malfunction. My vehicle specifically got diagnosed with " engine code p0755 shift solenoid B malfunction, has a shift 2/3 harsh shift " Toyota suggested to start with updated ECU and possible transmission assembly. After reading all this complaint I feel Toyota is responsible for this malfunctions and should inform its customer before the purchase it done or at least agree to fix the problem. Since my vehicle is over the 80,000 mileage it does not qualified to get this problem fix. It's extremely unsafe to drive a vehicle under this conditions and truly unethical for Toyota to be selling this vehicles without at least offering an extended warranty when they know this problem will rise up.
I will be sending complaints specifically to Toyota about this, and I urge everybody else with this same problem to do the same.
2008Jun 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
I have the same problem on the gears shifting....it seems to jump/skip gears/jerk harshly from time to time.......the check engine light also on, cant get the inspection to pass.....I haven't bought it to the toyota dealer yet.
I did bring it to a mechanic, they changed the tranny fluid and to no avail its still doing the same.
Im guessing its the ECM or Shift SOLENOID, since most on this forum is having the same symptoms as my Rav4.
Its been VERY DANGEROUS while driving in that condition...
also doesn't help living in NYC having being HONKED at cause the car wont get accelerate into gear!!!
Now its just put in family members garage to see what we can do to have Toyota foot the bills to replace THEIR FAULTY PARTS!
2008Jul 10
RAV4 L
- Automatic transmission
- 109,000 miles
I have had the same problem others have had on this site. Transmission started slipping from 1st to 2nd, took it in to a shop and they told me the fluid was "burnt" and after further checking the valve body was cracked. I thought "what??? on a Toyota???" and they started to tell me up to $3000 to repair it. I talked them into a $1750 (plus tax) cap and they began repairs, but the manager mentioned a bulletin for reflashing the computer that may need to be done. After I got my car back it started doing the same thing within a week, so back to the repair shop I go. They tell me they think it is the computer and they take it to the dealership for the programming. Well surprise, that didn't fix it, I need a new computer to the tune of $1,200. I am of course out of warranty so that is now my expense. I did call Toyota from a number I found here from a complainant and they told me there weren't any recalls (duh!) or notices (what about the bulletin at the repair shop??) so there is nothing they will do. She even had the nerve to tell me that "at some point the owner has to take responsibility"! GRRRR!!! So here I am with a bad transmission that was caused from the faulty computer and I am stuck with the bill. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER TOYOTA AGAIN!! If anyone takes this any further please let me know, I am onboard.
2008Aug 02
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
I have had problems with hard shifting out of park into reverse.
I scheduled diagnostic testing with Toyota, then found this wonderful website.
So far, I emailed Toyota.com (Toyota_cares)
They basically said we issued a Technical Service Bulleting (TSB) which is not the same as a recall and the TSB would have provided a "repair" for 80,000 miles/ 8 years whichever comes first.
"There is a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that was issued on March 3, 2006 regarding a harsh shift in the transmission. Improvements have been made to the Engine Control Module (ECM) manufacturing process to reduce the possibility of this condition occurring. This repair is covered under the Toyota Federal Emissions Warranty. This warranty is in effect for 8 years or 80,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle�s in-service date.
Based on the information you provided, your vehicle is outside of these parameters by miles. Once a vehicle is beyond the warranty parameters, responsibility for the cost of repair falls upon the vehicle owner.
For your information, a TSB is a communication between Toyota and its dealerships that can serve as an update to Toyota publications, describe parts updates, or relay enhanced or new service procedures. Service procedures may explain diagnostic steps, implementation of recommended updates, or how to perform certain repairs. A TSB is not a recall or a Special Service Campaign (SSC) and there are no recalls or SSCs relating to the transmission for the 2002 RAV4. If the cost of a TSB service or repair is eligible for warranty coverage, it will be specified in the TSB, and requires that the vehicle be within the original warranty parameters. A TSB does not extend the warranty.
Toyota does not mail TSBs to our customers but we make them available to the public through the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) view and print TSBs on a subscription basis through our Technical Information System."
(too bad, so sad,!)
So I filed a complaint with www.nhtsa.dot.gov the national highway traffic safety administration.
I also filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, via links on this site.
I called Toyota Customer service at 1-800-331-4331. You can hit the customer service vehicle problem / failures prompts. I told him that thousands of 2002 rav4 consumers and HIghlander '01-03 and R300 Lexus Trannys have failed and Toyota knows about it, and did they intend to help fix the problem b/c it's a safety issue.
Toyota cust svc said the same thing as the email" there's a TSB". So I stopped him and said, if you can't help me, let me talk to a supervisor.
That resulted in him telling me the name of my local city's dealership Customer Service Manager in Toyota of Redlands, California. Therefore, he said, that these "Customer Relation's Managers" are the "corporate liaison" in the field and have the authority to help me get this fixed.
This Toyota rep also said that b/c 97,000 is not too far off of 80,000, The Cust Relations Manager could probably work on being able to go ahead and approve the fix based on the TSB.
-write your local congressman(woman)
--file a BBB complaint
--file with NHTSA
--call Toyota Corporate
---webcomplaint with Toyota Corporate
--call your local dealership's customer relations manager
In Lemon Solidarity
bweis
2008Jul 13
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
I brought my RAV brand new in 2002. Have had no problem with it up until a few days ago. It was running just fine Saturday but the next day I noticed that it would jerk when I shifted in/out of reverse. Not only that but it had trouble accelerating and would jerk from 1st to 2nd gear. I brought it to my mechanic with hopes that it wasn't anything serious. He calls me the next day saying it was my transmission! WTF? Hello! I have a Toyota. Toyota's are supposed to last a lifetime. I have never heard of a Toyota needing a new transmission at 68k miles. He said it was going to cost $2400+. He also told me that he's heard of this problem with the RAVs and that Toyota is aware of the problem but it's not enough of a problem for Toyota to do a recall. Gggrr!!! WTF?!
2008Jun 23
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 105,633 miles
As much as I love Toyota product I hate the company for not compensating us on something that is their fault.Almost every day me and my husband fight because we can not afford to pay for $3000.00 expense this car brought to our life.they have no heart to see we gave them business instead they gave us problem.I had the same symptoms and had to take the car to local mechanic since I was on the way taking my husband a heart patient to doctor.now they are ignoring me because I have repaired it not in Toyota.!!please find a way to get our money back.I will co-operate with everybody on this matter.
2008Jun 28
RAV4 L 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
I believe that Toyota is responsible for this because I agree with some of the reports I've read, this is a safety issue. When I was driving on the highway, My car jerked and I couldn't pick up any speed. I, myself, almost got into an accident with an infant inside the car due to this problem. I think that Toyota dealerships should consider looking into this problem and find a solution for it because this didn't happen until I got a recall for the computer chip. Everything was running fine before. Again, I think Toyota Dealerships should consider fixing the problems for their customers for no fee at all because the problem isn't caused by the customers but the company itself.
2008Jun 15
RAV4 L 2.0L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
I have the shifting problems after buying 85 octane gasoline.
2008May 23
RAV4 L
- Automatic transmission
- 129,000 miles
Don't understand why Toyota doesn't check out this site. The transmission was replaced and it didn't fix the issue. I called Toyota dealership and they said Toyota was aware of the issue and has extended the warranty to customers that brought their vehicle in, They agreed that a re flash was just as good as a new computer but once I had the vehicle at the dealer they told me that it needed a new computer and it would be at my expense. Toyota wouldn't give me a replacement.
2008May 23
RAV4 L
- Automatic transmission
- 129,000 miles
the dealer lied about the re-flash. Once I brought the vehicle in they wanted to sell me a new computer. Their statement was that because I had previously had the transmission rebuilt it would take a new computer. I told them that it was a Toyota computer problem & they should replace. They said they could for $2400. I told them I could buy a new computer and have someone else put it in for alot less. They informed me that your everyday shade tree mechanic couldn't work on a Toyota. So the piece of junk sets in the drive way taking up space. I won't purchase another one unless Toyota stands behind this vehicle. If they agreed to reflash a computer why wouldn't they agreed to stand behind a replacement?
2008Jun 20
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
Had campaign computer notices from Toyota taken care of twice in the last five years. Never noticed any transmission problems until yesterday. Took to my own mechanic, who took it to the AAMCo next door. They both agree the transmission needs to be taken out and most likely rebuilt for a cost of between $2500 to $3200. Glad I got hooked up with this site. I am not putting another dime in this vehicle. It is not getting it fixed unless Toyota pays for it. I will be printing out these complaints and taking them to the local Toyota dealer.
I guess I will be riding my bike and taking public transportation to work.
2008Jun 16
RAV4 RAV4 2.0L 4 cyls
- Automatic transmission
- 80,447 miles
Attention: Anyone who has a 2002 Toyota RAV4 there is a recall for the ECM (Electronic Control Module ----The Brain---) please take it to your local dealership to have it re-flash or re-program the Toyota will pay for it ( because that problem would lead to the transmission shifting issue)
2008Jun 16
RAV4 RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,447 miles
Yesterday I had my regular oil change at E-Z Lube. After they finished, they strongly recommended that I need to have the transmission and radiator flush. When it was done, I have found out a major delay in shifting from the 1st gear to the 2nd gear. I reported this to the manager, and he went for a drive test. He told me that he needs to re-flush the transmission fluid. After that the problem still existed. He decided to use the hand hold machine to diagnose my car and told me that the problem is the transmission shift SOLENOID B. I agree with all of you. Toyota should be responsible for this problem. By the way, I own this 2002 Toyota RAV4 since day one and it has 80,447 miles.
2008Mar 20
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 115,200 miles
Our problems started with the check engine light turning on and off about a year ago. At first the car wouldn't pass through smog testing. We got a recall notice from Toyota to have the ECM reprogrammed and went to fulfill the recall. After the reset on the EMC the car passed smog. The light then came on again about a month later. We were told that it could be a gas cap issue, so we made sure we tightened the gas cap and that turned the light off for about a month but then it came back on again. It wasn't until this March that we had the first signs of a shifting problem. All in the same day, the transmission began to make noises and shift rough between 1st and 2nd gears (its an auto trans). As we were making our way home the transmission then froze in the middle of an intersection during a red light, very scary. Once we got the car going forward, we worked our way back home, and that was it for the car. We began saving our money and left the car in the garage until this month (June) when we needed to use it. It was at this time when driving on the freeway, the transmission failed again and slowed the speed to 45mph. We took the car to the transmission shop who said that it would cost $3500 to replace the transmission. I then took the car to Toyota and they said they don't deal with this issue so late, and that we should have brought the car in when the problem first happened. Yeah, and what about the expense. Thats why we were saving the money.I researched the issue on the internet and found this site. We hope that by filing the complaint, and bringing this website to Reno Toyota's attention will wake them up to fixing the problem.
2008Jun 01
RAV4 V4
- Automatic transmission
- 53,000 miles
I was having the same problems as many of you listed on this page. I contacted Toyota corporate and filed a complaint with customer service. I told them about this site and of the many complaints about problem shifting/ECM unit. They contacted my local Toyota dealer and the dealership called me in about two days. I made an appointment to bring in the car and I also printed out all of the blogs from this website to show the service manager. The service manager was happy to have a look at the complaints and the dealership ended up replacing the ECM unit at no cost to me (parts or labor). The car is fine now; the shifting is smooth with no jerking, hard shifting or hesitating. My advise is to contact Toyota and advise them that you would like them to absorb the cost of this repair. Also, you will get farther with them if you are kind (even though this is a really aggravating situation). I also said a prayer!
2008Apr 28
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 120,897 miles
What ever happened to Toyota quality??? I had a friend who had a Toyota which he put thu HELL!!! But, ya know what? It ran like a top afterwards and he N-E-V-E-R had any problems out of it! NONE!! I have had this a short time. Bought it with 118k miles on it. Heard that it was just being broke in at that mileage since it was a Toyota. HA!! I was fooled. Had it for about 2k and it all went to pot. Was gonna cost $3k to fix it. Got to reading around on the Net, found this site. All the situations were right on with mine. I have read that others have it updated and the tranny fixed, but the prob reappears. My question is, will a new ECM fix the problem? I really don't want to shell out the money to have it fixed if the ECM is gonna "fudge" it up again. BTW, I did file a complaint with this site http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/tsbs/. Hopefully Toyota will step up and take responsibility. This may be my first and last Toyota.
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Nov 02
RAV4
A few weeks ago the Rav started shifting hard and jerking. That evening I drove the car home and parked it. I started my internet research and found out that this is a common issue and Toyota has issued a bulletin on it (TC002-06). The next morning the wife and I had it towed to the local Toyota dealer just to see what they would say/diagnose. I also gave them a copy of Toyota's Bulletin on the issue which they were very aware of already.
In the meantime I contacted a shop in Brooklyn, NY which specializes in this particular trouble (Check Engine Etc.) ( www.rav4ecm.net). The guys there explained very clearly, what to look for and what to expect when the Diagnostics come back. Well, the next day Toyota called us with their diagnosis. They said the diagnostic which came up was P0755 (shift solenoid valve B) and that the transmission would have to be replaced!! $5400 is what they would charge!! OUCH!!
This code (P0755) is one of the false codes which may or may not show up during diagnostics, as explained the day prior, by the guys at the shop in Brooklyn.
I asked Toyota why do they not think the ECM is defective and the code false? They explained that my ECM part # is the replacement ECM from the factory (part# 89661-42821) as shown on the bulletin. Huh? I explained that the ECM has never been replaced, and had Toyota pull the history just to verify this. Toyota dealer said that maybe it came off the assembly line with the good ECM. HUH? I couldn't believe it so I decided to have it towed back home for further contemplation and check the ECM part # myself. Was the dealership full of "you know what"? Well, upon extracting the ECM it turns out that it was in fact the so called "Good ECM part". Now what?
I again contacted Check Engine Etc. and explained what Toyota had told me. The Tech assured me that the diagnostic code was false and that the Part I had (89661-42821) was indeed still defective. I decided to take a chance on the guys in NY and overnight the ECM to see if their fix works.
I recieved the the ECM about a week ago from the shop in NY and it works like a champ! As a matter of fact, the vehicle shifts better than before the issue! BOOO on Pueblo Toyota,( Pueblo, CO ) for wanting to charge me $5400 on a fix that wouldn't have solved anything!!
I have to thank, and give a plug to Sergei and the guys at Check Engine Etc. (Rav4ecm.net). Nice work!
libertyspike
Pueblo, CO, USA
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