This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Toyota dealer.
8.9
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,288.00
Average Mileage:
95,811 miles
Total Complaints:
121 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (52 reports)
- rebuild the transmission, replace ECM (34 reports)
- replace ecm (15 reports)
- rebuild the transmission (10 reports)
- replace computer engine (6 reports)
- re flash computer (3 reports)
transmission problem
Search for Problems, Recalls & Defects
Find a good Toyota mechanic
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.
2011Oct 07
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 114,500 miles
Like hundreds of other 2002 RAV4 owners I had the ecm fault wrecking the transmission problem. I caught it early in the transmission failure stage and my wise mechanic said. "Trade it in now while you can still drive it to the lot." Recommended solution! Worked like a charm to just buy a Realota. Alternatively try http://www.rav4ecu.net/documents/warranty.pdf
Toyota has apparently caved on this problem and issues an extended warranty. Good luck to you all.
2011Aug 06
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 134,000 miles
I also had the same issue with my 2002 Toyota, Rav4, transmission. Out of the blue, it was no longer shifting. It was fine past 60mph on the highway, but anything in low gear was very hard to shift. I would have to push down very hard on the gas and the engine would rev up and then finally jerk into gear. I also called Toyota about it to check on a recall and was told it was not covered. I could take it in and pay to have them figure out the problem, but at that point I already had it at a mechanic who had the transmission rebuilt and a rebuilt ecm put in all for $1695 including labor. I was thrilled, as I really wanted to keep it at least another 2 years. I did check into a new car but figured it was best to keep this one and fix it rather than start all over with car payments. If any of you live in south FL and have this problem, I have a great mechanic who can help for less than 1/2 the cost of Toyota!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Feb 01
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 136,702 miles
Just developed transmission problems (slipping in lower gears) on my 2002 Rav4 with 220,000 kilometers. Took it to my local Toyota dealer and they have agreed to replace both the ECM and the transmisson at zero cost. Mind you I had to remind them that I'd read about all the problems with the 2001-2003 Rav4s (ECM / transmission issues) and that Toyota USA had extended the warranty on this problem to 10 years or 150,000 miles before they looked into it further and discovered that Toyota Canada was following suit.
2010Sep 29
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
I was advised by many people when I decided to purchase a car rather than lease to go with Toyota. Now my transmission is hesitating, not wanting to go into gear and lunging forward. I never received ANY information from Toyota. I am the original owner and have taken excellent care of the vehicle.
If Toyota will not assist in fixing this problem I am not going to be a Toyota customer ever again.
All comments when I tell people is "I am surprised since its Toyota", but after reading the recall/problems, this transmission problem was significant.
2011Jan 02
RAV4 2L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,500 miles
I have RAV 4 2004 and started experiencing "harsh shifting" problem mentioned in Toyota Service bulletin when my car was 8.5 years old and at 80,500 miles! That's really frustrating because the warranty expired at 8 years or 80K miles... However, there are lots of the same complaints in the internet and some people mention that Toyota has extended the warranty to 10 years or 100K miles, but I can't find an official Toyota statement on this. I called two Toyota dealers, one of them said it was extended to 8 years and 100K miles (which won't work for me), the other one said it is extended only for 2003 RAV4s. Can anyone in the world tell me what is really going on with this problem and where can I get the official Toyota statement on that?
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2010Jan 10
RAV4 2.0
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
We had a RAV4 2002 Model, and early this year, problem presented itself as a transmission issue with hard shift into reverse; starting off in 2d or 3d gear. Engine was bogging down dropping in and out of gear. Several times, it was bucking violently (scared the crap outa me!) with a large truck bearing down on me. The check engine light never came on which made me wonder if it was really just the transmission. I brought it to the local Toyota dealership and was told the next day that the transmission and the ECU need to be replaced, and cost estimated about $5000. Too expensive to afford. I knew the car in it's present state was unsafe to drive. I decided to check out this site to see if anyone else had similar problems. What a revelation! I was able to get a local mechanic to pull my ECM out. I sent it to Check Engine ETC in Brooklyn N.Y..They rebuilt my ECU and my car is now running smoothly. I asked him to drain the transmission fluid and check for metal filings. Thanks to this site and Check Engine ETC I saved myself some huge money.
However, after a couple of months, we got a letter from toyota motor sales USA, inc., telling us that certain 2001 to 2003 rav4 vehicles with transmission problems and had repair before could have the expenses reimbursed.
I sent all my documents and expenses receipts to Toyota, but was denied to reimburse to me, because I had my ECU rebuilt/repair, but not replaced.
What a stupid policy. We are not happy with this decision and will never buy Toyota anymore.
The following is the letter we sent to Toyota customer service early this month.
November 06, 2010
THIS LETTER IS FOR THE MANAGER/SUPERVISOR OF THE TOYOTA CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE DEPT. IF YOU ARE NOT THE MANAGER, PLEASE FORWARD IT TO THE MANAGER. THANK YOU.
Dear Toyota Customer Experience Manager:
On October 13, 2010, we mailed you a letter, briefly described the situation on the bad experience of harsh shift of the automatic transmission of our 2002 RAV4 vehicle, together with copies of repair invoices. (see attached document).
Unfortunately, today we got a letter from your company, declined our request for reimbursement. We do not understand why.
As a loyal Toyota customer, we have purchased three Toyota vehicles in past ten years. They are 2001 Corrola, 2002 RAV4, and 2008 Tundra.
The RAV4 ran well until early this year, we experienced harsh shift when the vehicle reached the speed about 20 to 30 miles/hour. At this moment, you have to pump the accelerate pedal several times to "gear in", after the vehicle reach over 35 miles/hour, it ran OK. Several times on the local roads, the car behind our vehicle almost hit our rear bumper due to the sudden slow down of the vehicle because of the harsh shifting. It was horrifying.
On May 11, 2010, we took the vehicle to the local Toyota dealer, Star Toyota in League City, Texas, after diagnostic, we were told that the transmission was broke and we need to replace the transmission and the ECU. The estimated cost would be $4835.40. We thought it was too expensive to afford, therefore, we paid $98.00 for the diagnostic fee to Star Toyota and took our vehicle home, trying to find a less expensive place to repair our car.
We stacked the vehicle for over a month in our garage, then we tried a local repair shop, Morrow's Transmission on June 21, 2010. They diagnosed that fault code 0755, solenoid "B" shifting malfunction. They cleaned the solenoid and tested other solenoids, and charged us $195.00. but the harsh shift problems still existed.
On June 28, 2010, we learned there was company called Check Engine, Etc. in Brooklyn, New York, they repair the ECU. We then shipped our ECU to this company and had it repaired. After we put it back on, the vehicle ran OK.
Not long after that, we received your letter of ZTL- Certain 2001 through 2003 Model Year RAV4 vehicles Customer Support Program. It tells very clearly on what to do if we previously paid for the repair of the vehicle due to the harsh shift problem. We then prepared the documents and mail to you, anticipating to receive a refund check. But to our astonishment, we got a decline letter.
We are totally puzzled that our vehicle "does not meet the criteria for reimbursement under CSP )1-03my Rav4 Transaxle Ecm Warranty Enhancement" as your decline letter stated. We need to know WHY??? We need a satisfactory explanation.
It is quite clear that every expense we submitted for reimbursement is directly related to the repair of the harsh shift problem.
Think it this way, if we had our vehicle replaced the transmission and the ECU on the first hand when we took our vehicle to Star Toyota dealer, we would have our refund check by now. That is $4835.40. almost five thousand dollars.
However, we only submitted a total expenses only $717.04 last time, but, you refused to refund. TELL US WHY??? We need a satisfied reply.
Do you really want to pay $5000, rather than $700???
Regards,
DO NOT BUY TOYOTA. THE QUALITY AND CUSTOMER SERVICE ARE NO LONGER AS GOOD.
2010Sep 01
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 71,944 miles
We incurred the same transmissions and ECU problem in Canada. Earlier, when the vehicle was new (within few month, in the winter months), it took forever for the vehicle shift from 1st to passing gear. I thought it was due to cold weather. However, the same problem occurred in the next spring/summer. At our next scheduled maintenance appointment at the dealer, I mentioned my concerns and they said that there wasn't anything unusual, everything was fine..... As a devoted car aficionado, I knew that it wasn't ok and was not normal.
Move forward to 2006, had the vehicle service for ECU recall, (ended up that I paid for it and never got a penny back from Toyota Canada because their internal issue between dealer and Toyota Canada). Now, the end result, need new transmission and ECU at approx $5,000 when all along should have been addressed by their warranty. We are NOT happy and very disappointed with Toyota! Why? because they knew all this time and wasn't doing anything about their customers concerns. We were proud owners of Toyota products for many years, but since they can't take ownership of their issues (major recalls in US and these kind of issues) and cannot address their customers concerns properly, why would anyone buy their products or even take that chance. After reviewing the New York Times article, "Toyota Extends Warranty on Troubled 2001-3 RAV4" by CHRISTOPHER JENSEN on July 13, 2010, 5:04 pm, I was happy that Toyota USA is moving up to the plate and extended its warranty. Only wish Toyota Canada would do the same. I intend to make a complaint to Transport Canada because I would hate getting hurt because their lack of compassion, reliability and integrity.
2010Jun 01
RAV4 AWD 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
Problem presented itself as a transmission issue with hard shift into reverse; starting off in 2d or 3d gear. Engine was bogging down dropping in and out of gear. At one point it was bucking violently (scared the crap outa me!) with a large truck bearing down on me. The check engine light never came on which made me wonder if it was really just the transmission. I brought it to the local Toyota dealership and was told (after a 2 1/2 hr. wait) that they couldn't find a problem with the car. No error codes at all and everything was fine. I even went out for a test drive with the mechanic and we couldn't reproduce the way the car had been running earlier in the day. Needless to say, I knew the car in it's present state was unsafe to drive. I decided to check out this site to see if anyone else had similar problems. What a revelation! I was able to get a local mechanic to pull my ECM out. I sent it along with a money order for $250.00(I insured the whole deal for $1,500.00 as a new ECM is about $1,200.00) to Check Engine ETC in Brooklyn N.Y.. Well it happened just like they said it would; my mechanic received it back in 2 days he installed it back in for me and my car is now running great. I asked him to drain the transmission fluid and check for metal filings. He told me I probably saved the tranny by not trying to drive it. Thanks to this site and Check Engine ETC I saved myself some huge money.
2010Mar 24
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
I talked to toyota , they said to me that a bullitin went out in dec 2006 called a 60I to all dealers to reprogram ecm- so on my car it was never done so i have to call Toyota back and tell them it was never done... there in a meeting now lol i have to call later. But all of u should call them and tell them what happen... 1-800-331-4331 they do listen and help and good of all is they issue case numbers. so ill let u all know later what happens with Toyota.
i spent 3500 for my new transmission and ( part was a new computer because it does not reconize the new transmission $1,500)
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2010Apr 02
RAV4 LX 4 Cl
- Automatic transmission
- 172,000 miles
Asked about not shifting to third when it was a cold start same week I bought it (NEW)! was told it was safety feature to not shift till fluids were warm. It has been a great car otherwise and accepted that answer. Now it almost got me killed by an 18 wheeler. When I pulled out it quit moving and the engine revved high then it banged into gear. Scared the crap out of me! went to the dealer, tranny flush,161.00. Left and it was still doing it. Called the 800 number and complained. They want me to take it to another dealer. Doing that Monday. Now I found this sight and they have known it all along?????!!! Always planned on another RAV, this is my second one. Now I'm scared!
2008Nov 13
RAV4 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
I am a toyota cars family for over 33 year, since 1998 up to this point I realized that toyota plants are more worry about their production quantities rather then their qualities. I am currently have a 2002 toyota rav4 having problem with transmission shifting 1st and 2nd. gear, jerk when shift or when shift catches then it jump . It is very dangerous to follow someone close, I took to a Toyata dealer repair shop they told me that it is a COMMON problem for this type of vehicle. That meant they knew these problem along and toyota just wanted to neglect it until someone gets kill before they do something. It is a bad business part by toyota for not correct their problems.
I am not considering purchase another toyota in the near future and I wanted the world to act the same due to a poor responses by toyota. their mechanics even push the button about the problems with the transmission. By the way I also have a 2002 Sienna along with my brother, both vans having Oil sludge problems that causes the engines to blown up. There is a recall and I took my van to the dealer and was not honor. Both vans are in scrapes metal and travel halfway to Japan to manufacture another bad product on floor again. This is the reason why I am not satisfy for toyota not standing behind products.
2002Jan 01
RAV4 L 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 100 miles
I brought my Rav4 to the dealer within 100 miles of buying it for the Transmission. I always felt like it was slipping and not shifting right. They told me I had "Special Transmission fluid and it's very expensive to replace and it would be on me to pay for it". They said it would be about $200.00 to change it. I said no thanks. The damned thing was within a week of having it and under 100 miles....WTF! Every time I brought it back for scheduled oil changes, I'd tell them about it, they told me I could pay and they'd fix it. I started taking it elsewhere for oil changes. I now have 172k miles and the transmission sticks from 1st to 2nd, especially when it's cold. It takes about 1/4 ile before it shifts. I had to put an engine in it this past June(09) and spent about 7k on the engine and other stuff like battery, wiper blades....that kind of stuff. If the transmission goes out, I'll take out the remanufactured Jasper engine I had put in and junk the rest. I spent 28k to buy this car 8 years ago. Not a very good investment. Hubby told me "Get a Toyota, you can't kill them" Boy was he wrong. Let's see....28k + 7k= 35k. I could have bought a Cadillac for that amount....... 35k/8 years=$4375.00 per year or $364.58 a MONTH! Wow looking at it that way, I realize they RIPPED ME OFF! DAMN...........
2009Dec 23
RAV4 4WD L 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 76,830 miles
I have just got a 2002 Rav 4 with 76835 miles on it. I have the same issue as all of you. It takes a long time for the engine to shift from 1st to 2nd. I thought that I needed a tune-up until I realized that it was a common problem in those Rav4. Do you have an idea of what I can do?
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2006Feb 07
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 54,000 miles
Walser Toyota in Minnesota claims there was never a public recall TC002-06, that I should never have seen that bulletin because it was in-house and intended only for the dealerships. As such, they're charging me 1/2 cost of a new transmission job. Outside of warranty (allegedly) at 81,000 miles, but Toyota repair receipts twice documented my concerns at 54,000 miles in '06 and '07. Neither time could they duplicate the transmission problem. Now they also claim my ECM 428421? didn't qualify for replacement, only re-flashing, because it's a new ECM number, meaning I've always had the latest ECM. What do I do? They're fixing the car today after I've been fighting them all week. And with the Toyota accelerator recall flooding phone lines, they will not deal with me. They've just simply said, "You're welcome to seek your own alternatives, but we just want to make you happy."
Update from Jul 14, 2010: Walser Toyota, Bloomington, MN, allegedly acting on directive of Chicago regional manager Joe (last name their secret), representing Toyota USA, charged me 1/2 of transmission, then refused to acknowledge ECM as cause. Inver Grove Heights Toyota then replaced ECM at no cost. I took Walser to Hennepin County Court to recover my half of transmission job, and lost. One week later, yesterday, July 13, in the NYTimes Wheels blog, written by Christopher Jensen, I see this,
http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/07/13/toyota-extends-warranty-on-troubled-2001-3-rav4/?src=mv
and I now hope to recover my money. There's no way to recover court costs or pay me back for anxiety of driving a Rav4 that slips out of gear in the middle of intersections or on-ramps to freeways, with a brand-new transmission, but I'm hoping to recover my money stolen by their corporate piracy.
2009Aug 04
RAV4 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
I was told several times to buy a Toyota, that they are very reliable and practically bullet proof; however, I am seriously disappointed and going broke. My Rav4 started to give me problems with the transmission shifting poorly around 80,000 miles. I am a single mother, work two jobs and drive a lot. When the problem began, I took it to a friend of mine who is a Toyota Certified mechanic. He read the code and replaced the solenoid ($400.00). The problem still wasn't corrected. I then took the car to another mechanic who told me that the code was reading wrong and that I needed to take it to a Toyota dealership to have it diagnosed correctly. Toyota told me my engine computer needed to be replaced but I was now out of warranty. Luckily, I knew somebody and had it replaced without a charge, still same problem and getting worse.
During Christmas break, I decided to take the car to a transmission shop as the dealership told me that the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission shop owner told me he could have it fixed in a couple days. He took the transmission apart and said it was chewed up. Many parts in the transmission were damaged and it would have to be completely replaced in order for him to warranty it. He found me a used transmission with 70,000 miles on it for $1675.00. I had to pre-pay for it and wait a week. I am now out $275.00 in rental car fees and borrowing cars to get around. He finally installed the transmission and told me to send it back to Toyota to have the computer re-flashed. The Toyota technician reported that the computer was fine but the transmission he installed was faulty and needed to be sent back. Now the transmission shop is blaming Toyota and Toyota is saying the transmission is bad AND I have had no car for 3 weeks. I am at my wits end. I am out $1675.00 and still have no vehicle. We are at a stand still. Any suggestions?
It seems that the used transmission I bought is a victim of the same computer problem that ruined my transmission. After reading all the other complaints, it would seem that this car could be considered a lemon. Not sure how all this works but any help would be greatly appreciated.
Update from Feb 4, 2010: I have posted to this blog about a month ago and here is my update: After 5 weeks in the shop and going back and forth to a Toyota dealership in the area, I finally have a running car. However, the engine light came on about 3 days after getting it back. I hesitate to take it back after what I hear now on the media about all the other recalls. Despite the car running fine now, I am hesitant to take it back to see why the engine light is back on. Could it be that Toyota has some serious electronic ( software) problems stemming back for years as a report on the a news talk radio show which quoted Steve Wozniak, founder of Apple Computers, stating that he believes that Toyota has a problem with their software system not a mechanical problem. How long has this gone on without action until now? Who knows what the real problem is--could it be the biggest auto seller in the world has been lacks in there engineering? Hopefully, they can remedy their problem. Otherwise, it's open game for another auto maker to come in and take their place. Integrity people.
2009Dec 13
RAV4 L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
My 2002 Rav 4 needs a new transmission. I took great care of my brand new car. This is totally unacceptable.
2008Apr 23
RAV4 LX 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 91,885 miles
I helped my niece purchase this vehicle new in 2002. She started experiencing problems with shifting in 2008. She spent $1,086.23 at Cottman Transmissions in Charlotte NC. The replace Valve Body and solenoids to correct the shifting problem If problem recured they recommended and overhaul and also said that the ECM may need to be replaced. That did not solve the problem. It has been checked by Firestone, May 2008 (check engine light on shift solenoid malfunction and fluid dark /burnt code (P0750) in Charlotte NC . She was frustrated that what she spent did not solve her problem.
I have owned 3 other Toyota's in the past and had great service with them except for my 2002 2wd pickup that also had a transmission problem at around 117,000 miles. I thought that she would get great service from this vehicle. It is now my problem since I purchased the Rav4 from her last year. I have driven it about 500 miles and in that time the check engine light came on, code (P0750). Problem started when driving up short upgrade, jerking, slow take off, not shifting into passing gear, skipping past or starting in higher gear but then shifting into passing gear. Check engine light did go off before skipping gears and came on before the problem of not shifting into the passing gear. I will repair it but can't afford it right now.
Eddie
2009Dec 21
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 133,000 miles
Started having check engine light problems, Codes P0750 & P0755 replaced faulty sensors and fluid w/ filter change out, road test problem still exist, shows same sign as before, help, running out of funds
2009Oct 28
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 119,876 miles
I purchased my Toyota Rav4 in 2002 new from the dealership. My husband noticed a slight slip in the transmission in 2005 and it was mentioned to the toyota service center, however the service tech said he did not notice any slippage at that time. Now four years later and 40k past the recall mileage, the Rav4 is acting up with the transmission jumping and jerking with a ecm diagnosed problem which will cost in the neighborhood of $1287.00 to repair. Not only is this an inconvenience but should not be coming out of our pocket. Toyota knew there was a problem and set limits on their recall. Mileage or age should have nothing to do with it. The problem exists, therefore they should fix it.
2007Sep 19
(reported on)RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 125,000 miles
I have replaced my engine computer ONLY.(The Toyota Dealer did not cover this cost $1,300.00). But something told me this is the problem. Well after 13,000 miles. See My comment below Mar31 2007. I have NOT had shifting or any transmission bucking problems since. Oh by the way This part number is 89661-42820 Toyota Engine Control. And Thank You Toyota for a refund check in the mail for this failed Part. I hope I have helped all of you out there that have this problem. Sincerely, John F of Perkiomenville Pa. P. S. I had to use my visa card to pay for this computer. I could not afford to pay cash. SEE MAR31 2007 for my story.
2009Nov 02
RAV4
- Automatic transmission
- 92,500 miles
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!
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.
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. The website is http://www.rav4ecm.net and they are located in New York. They have figured out that it is a design flaw. (Toyota 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!)
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Jun 01
RAV4
click to see larger images
I paid 4200.00 for a transmission that I never needed. My rav4 wouldnt shift properly, it was shifting really hard so I thought it was the transmission. Well it turned out to be the ecm. Dealer quoted me 1565.00 for a new one. I found a company online and they fixed it in 2 days http://www.ecmoutlet.com/rav4-ecm.html Its been one month since the repair and it seems to be working great.
David K.
Ferndale, MI, USA
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