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10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
2 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
1 / 0
Average Mileage:
66,833 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2006 Toyota RAV4 engine problems

engine problem

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2006 Toyota RAV4 Owner Comments (Page 5 of 6)

« Read the previous 20 complaints

problem #29

Apr 102014

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 122,300 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

This has happened to me three times and to my wife once. As we begin to accelerate, either from a stop or as we are accelerating, we have a pause in acceleration. If feels like we are not pushing on the gas but that is not it. Once the gas pedal is released and we re-accelerate, the car moves forward normally. It has been very scary when someone is approaching and the gas does not move us forward. This has not happened in reverse.

- Hillsboro, OR, USA

problem #28

Jan 282014

RAV4

  • 64,778 miles
The engine is burning excessive amounts of oil due to a defective oil ring. The dealership says the only fix is to replace the engine.

- Santa Ana, CA, USA

problem #27

Mar 192014

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 74,000 miles
Engine would try to die when I applied the brakes. The engine light came on and I looked it up in the manual and saw it was the engine oil symbol. I took it in where I had the oil changed last and they said it was 2.5 qts low. They topped it off and told me to come back after 200 miles and when I did, they said it had used more than it should have. Took it into the Toyota dealer and they started the oil consumption test. Yesterday was the final for that and low and behold, they determined that the vehicle was using oil. They said the rings, pistons, valves and etc. Should be replaced for a total of $4,300+. they offered me no assistance but did tell me that they were offering 0 percent on new vehicles. I would never purchase another Toyota. I know someone with the same car as mine who spent several hundreds trying to get her car fixed with the same problem and just finally traded it for something else. From reading consumer complaints online, there are hundreds of people having the same problem with this vehicle, please, please step in and make Toyota address this issue. Thanks.

- Old Hickory, TN, USA

problem #26

Mar 082014

RAV4 6-cyl

  • 70,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

While driving home after grocery shopping, about a 4-mile drive, the vvt-I oil hose "exploded" (the word used by the Toyota sunnyvale, ca), causing smokes to come out of the car's engine compartment. Immediately, the kids were pulled out the vehicle and placed in a safe location. We are very concerned about the safety of the 2006 Toyota Rav4's oil line. What would have happened if the family was traveling farther away from home?! there is a "limited service campaign" in 2010 that only covers certain VIN of 2006-2009 Toyota Rav4. Although, my vehicle does not fall under the lsc, my vehicle is experiencing the same design defect. March 01, 2010 Toyota announced phase three of a limited service campaign (lsc) on certain 2007 -? 2009 model year avalon and Rav4 vehicles with a 2gr-fe (V6) engine... for phase three, there are approximately... 89,000 Rav4 V6 (2007-2009 model year) vehicles involved in the United States. Last year, Toyota also announced phases one and two of this lsc on... Rav4 V6 (2006 model year)... Toyota needs to take better responsibility for this defect and recall all Rav4 V6 with similar design defect.

- San Jose, CA, USA

problem #25

Jan 312014

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 73,000 miles
I have been changing my oil every 3000 miles / 3 months or less this Rav4 is not leaking oil and not putting soot out or blowing blue smoke out the tail pipe showing that it is burning oil. No engine lights or oil lights came on until the engine stopped running. By this time it was too late. I took my Rav4 to Goodyear and they said that they had to put 4.5 quarts of oil in which is how much the Rav4 takes. They also stated they did not see any oil leaks anywhere. This is the base model four cylinder model. Oil should not be gone in less than 3000 miles especial with an engine that has less that 150000 miles today. I feel this is a defect that should be addressed by Toyota and that everyone that encounters this problem should be compisated for the kbb fair value at the time it happens for this problem. We the people buy cars that should last and not be stuck in a financial hardship for a factory defect that does not even warn us of low oil.

- Linthicum, MD, USA

problem #24

Sep 182012

RAV4 6-cyl

  • 38,000 miles
When backing the car out and turning the steering, there is a clunking noise that occurs. It mostly occurs from a cold start. There is a service bulletin out for this, but the dealer won't cover it. The car started making a popping sound. It was coming from underneath that car and made the exhaust sound really loud. Dealership said it was the centerpipe that was connected to the catalytic converter. The material of the centerpipe and catalytic was rusted and the dealership blamed it on me and that I drove the car off roading. I told them that the car has never gone off roading, garaged, and well maintained. Other 2006 Rav4 owners have cited the same issue stating that the material and craftsmanship of the centerpipe and catalytic converter were of poor quality. The seams of the centerpipe just completely came undone. When speaking with the dealership, they refused to cover it under the emissions warranty. When talking to the environment protection Agency for emissions, they said that Toyota should cover it. This centerpipe issue became a larger issue when the vehicle misfired and the vsc, check engine, and 4WD lights on. Took it to the dealership to discuss what the issue may be. Other owners stated that the ignition coils were of poor quality and Toyota has issued replacements. Talked to the dealership and they refused to replace it under warranty. Shortly after, the car seems to be driving very clunky and does not drive as well as usual. The car vibrates and drives very slowly. It sounded like it dropped a cylinder. The engine sounds very clunky. This has happened many times. Ignition coils were replaced several times. Check engine light, vsc, and 4WD lights turn on solid each of these instances. Since then the tire pressure has turned on and gone bad. Had to get that replaced. Now all 3 lights are back on and will need to find out why.

- Gaithersburg, MD, USA

problem #23

Sep 182012

RAV4 6-cyl

  • 38,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

When backing the car out and turning the steering, there is a clunking noise that occurs. It mostly occurs from a cold start. The car started making a popping sound. It was coming from underneath that car and made the exhaust sound really loud. Shortly after, the car seems to be driving very clunky and does not drive as well as usual. The car vibrates and drives very slowly. It sounded like it dropped a cylinder. The engine sounds very clunky. This has happened many times. Ignition coils were replaced several times.

- Gaithersburg, MD, USA

problem #22

Dec 042013

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 90,000 miles
Have to keep adding a quart of oil every other week or so.im checking it all the time! bought it new from dealer! my mechanic said either valves or pistons. Common problem with this model. I'm very upset. Change my oil every 3 thousand miles. I take very good care of my car. Went on line and others are having the same issues. Its costly to fix and Toyota should honor andfix this defect! my first Toyota and probably my last. I'll kept adding oil and see what happens.

- Scituate , MA, USA

problem #21

Dec 222010

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 44,169 miles
12/22/2010 @ 44,169 miles the steering knocked when taking tight turns. The intermediate steering shaft was replaced. 9/16/2011 @ 50,131 miles the alternator bearings gave way and the water pump was seeping fluid. The alternator and water pump were replaced. 12/16/13 @ 63,336 miles the engine failed. The check engine light, vehicle stability light and 4WD lights came on and the dealer service department indicated that the head gasket had failed, the engine was leaking coolant and the SUV needed a new engine.

- Glen Allen, VA, USA

problem #20

Oct 032013

RAV4

  • miles
Just recently purchased a used 2006 Toyota Rav4...because I've owned two previous to this one and simply appreciate them... however....I've only owned this one since may of 2013 from a reputable dealership and to much surprise I am already experiencing technical difficulties. At about 1.5K miles after an oil change, my oil light comes on...checked the oil and it was low to the point where I had to add an additional quart on the 1st occasion and 2 quarts on the 2nd occasion...may I add that there is no leak. Who is going to hold Toyota accountable? I need help and answers.

- Springfield, OH, USA

problem #19

Jul 312013

RAV4

  • 81,542 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

I have always brought in my Toyota for regular maintenance to the dealer every 5,000 miles. In July of this year, the oil warning light began to light every time I hit the brakes. My dealer performed an oil consumption check. By November I was advised to have the engine reconstructed and repair the rings and pistons, because the engine was leaking excessive oil. I also had to replace the brakes. The repairs cost over $3500 and took over a week to complete. I recently learned that this model Toyota has a record of stuck oil rings causing excessive oil consumption which leads to engine failure. I feel that this should be a recall item. Engine failure due to loss of oil can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. This is a serious safety issue. I would like to be reimbursed for this manufacturer's defect that Toyota is fully aware of.

- Wilmington, DE, USA

problem #18

Aug 222013

RAV4

  • 135,000 miles
I own a 2006 Rav4. Bought it new and have had every oil change and recommended engine service done since that time done at the dealership. A few months ago, I took it in to have my fluids checked before a road trip, and was told that the dipstick showed that I had absolutely no oil! it was almost impossible as I had just had an oil change about 3 weeks prior. I immediately took the car to the dealer and they added some oil and said they would "monitor the oil consumption." I thought maybe a careless mechanic failed to properly fill the reservoir. However, since then, I have had to go back every 1000 miles so they could check the dipstick and add oil, but each time was told that they will continue the monitoring. However, about 2 weeks ago, they called me and told me they had some information for me. I was told that to fix the problem I really need a new engine, as the oil is being used internally by the engine due to a piston assembly design problem per the tsb. I asked if Toyota was going to fix the problem for me at its cost, and they told me that there is no recall because it is not a safety issue. This is an unacceptable answer as this is not a "normal wear and tear" issue, it's a design defect issue. As such, Toyota should step up and fix the problems that are obviously being experienced by ( judging from the various blogs I've been viewing) lots of Toyota owners who have the same problem. The only option the dealer gave me was that I can have the piston repair work done and have the small block replaced for $3172. Like I said, I felt Toyota should pay for this, not me, as Toyota, not I, caused the problem.

- Port Angeles, WA, USA

problem #17

May 152013

RAV4

  • 57,000 miles
Engine oil light comes on when going around turn, but goes off. I checked the oil and the dipstick was completely dry. I had to add 3 quarts of oil. The same thing happened the on 11/16/2013 and I had to add 3 quarts. I have seen numerous complaints on this issue on the internet.

- Coraopolis, PA, USA

problem #16

Apr 012013

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 165,000 miles
The vehicle is consuming oil at an alarmingly high rate. The oil level indicator does not come on. It flashes on hard braking. However by this point the oil level is dangerously low. In my vehicle it has been less than 1 qt.

- Andover, MA, USA

problem #15

Nov 172010

RAV4 4WD 4-cyl

  • 75,000 miles
Since this date the car has been burning excessive oil. Burning about a quart every 800 miles. I seen numerous postings of the same problem. Please advise.

- Franklin Square, NY, USA

problem #14

Jun 112013

RAV4 4-cyl

  • miles
When I took my vehicle to get an oil change, the technician told me there was nothing showing on the dip stick. Although a low-oil light never appeared to let me know that the oil was low, the oil was very low. I started checking my oil level often and noticed that I needed to add oil between oil changes. I can also smell burning oil when I accelerate either to get on a highway ramp or to go up a hill. A dealership subsequently told me that the rings on the engine block were worn and that I needed a new engine that would cost approximately $8,500. Now I drive around with a case of oil in my back seat. From what I've read on the internet, this is not an isolated case.

- Basking Ridge, NJ, USA

problem #13

Aug 272013

RAV4 6-cyl

  • 85,000 miles
This is my story: My wife, yorkie, and I went to pick up my son at preschool early this afternoon in weston, fl when all of the sudden we hear a brief whine noise followed by the check engine and oil lights on the panel; the engine shut itself off. I was able to pull to the side of the road but the car was difficult to drive. I cranked the engine on again and was able to drive for another 100 yards. The same whine noise followed by the same lights and engine shut off. Afterwards, the engine would turn on and it immediately would shut off; not a chance to engage to drive and move an inch. I looked at the engine compartment and there was nothing unusual; the oil level was fine (the car has never had a leak and has been properly maintained), no funny smells, etc. By this time we were sweating and getting concerned. I thought it could be that the A/C could be part of the problem since it adds load to the engine serpentine belt; I turned off the A/C by depressing the A/C button on car's dash and the engine stayed on. I was able to drive the car and pick up my son thankfully. I was ready to send my wife on a cab to get him. My questions to you guys are the following: Why would Toyota design the engine to shut itself off in a situation when something in the A/C fails? if my wife would have been in the highway with my son and had the engine shut off, she would have completely freaked out and god forbid in an accident. All I can think of is that Toyota implemented a mechanism to kill the engine if the load in the serpentine belt is excessive. Yes, good to prevent engine damage, but I value my family's and my life more. The engine should not shut off... that is why you have warning lights and other safety mechanisms.

- Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

problem #12

Jul 032013

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 115,000 miles
The engine for my 2006 Toyota is burning oil rapidly. I have about 115,000 miles and was hoping that this car would at least last me another 5 years. The dealership is telling me that my engine needs an engine overhaul which will cost about $3,000. I make sure to take care of my car and bring it for an oil change when it's due.

- Allenwood, NJ, USA

problem #11

Feb 022012

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 85,000 miles
The vehicle loses 1-2 quarts of oil over 30-60 day period or 1500-2000 miles. No signs of leaks, dripping or other sources of loss are visible. In checking Toyota Rav4 owner forums, it seems this condition is prevalent among many and spans several model years. The condition has been occurring for several years now, but we thought it was just us and seemed to be a slower loss. Now the loss is much faster. I am concerned that if people wait to check oil until next oil change, they may damage their engines.

- San Ramon, CA, USA

problem #10

Nov 132012

RAV4 4-cyl

  • 73,050 miles
Oil pressure warning lit up at approximately 73,050 miles. Diagnosis is that the oil consumption is faster than normal. Servicer topped off oil and returned to servicer after driving $1200 miles. I was told everything is fine. Then it happened again at approximately 81,950 miles. Servicer again tops off with oil and returned after driving another $1200 miles. This time the servicer stated that they need to tear the car apart the before pinpointing the exact problem. Approximate cost to do this is maybe $3,000. Extended warranty expired at $75,000 miles.

- Philadelphia, PA, USA

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