Engine & fuel system
3 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Intermittent non start when ignition switched from off position to start position too quickly
Overview
- Affects
- All models.
- Remedy
- Fit modified part
Symptoms
Poor starting when engine is hot.
Cause
Engine control module (ECM) software fault.
Repair
- Carry out electrical, mechanical and component tests (as applicable) to eliminate any other possible cause(s).
- If no fault(s) found: Fit modified engine control module (ECM).
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 2.
Whistling noise from engine bay at approximately 2000rpm when engine cold at low vehicle speed
Cause
Unsatisfactory design of fuel filter.
Repair
- Fit modified fuel filter and fuel filter mounting.
Parts3 parts
| Part | Part number | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel filter | 23390-33020 | 1 |
| Fuel filter mounting (RAV4) | 23380-27110, or 2323380-27121 | 1 |
| Fuel filter mounting (except RAV4) | 23380-27101 | 1 |
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 3.
Sudden power loss on acceleration
Symptoms
Trouble code stored in engine control module (ECM) fault memory: 78 (2), 78 (8), P0627.
Cause
Fuel flow control valve faulty.
Repair
- Fit modified fuel flow control valve.
Parts1 part
| Part | Part number | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel flow control valve | 04221-27011 | 1 |
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 4.
Electrical & ignition
1 documented fault — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Failure of speedometer
Water ingress into vehicle speed sensor (VSS) wiring harness multi-plug. Fix: clean and lubricate.
Overview
- Affects
- All models.
- Remedy
- Clean & lubricate
Repair steps
- Locate and disconnect vehicle speed sensor (VSS) wiring harness multi-plug at kick panel.
- Inspect harness multi-plug terminals. Repair/replace wiring as necessary.
- Check sunroof water drain tubes for correct routing or blockages. Clean or replace water drain tubes as necessary.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 7.
Brakes
1 documented fault — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Brakes squeal
Overview
- Affects
- All models.
Cause
Replacement brake pads fitted without anti-squeal shims.
Repair
- Ensure brake pad anti-squeal shims are fitted.
- Replacement shims available separately.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 1.
Clutch & gearbox
2 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Air conditioning (AC) inefficient
Cause
AC compressor clutch relay faulty.
Repair
- Replace AC compressor clutch relay.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 5.
Poor gear shifting when up-shifting
Engine control module (ECM) faulty. Fix: fit a new part.
Overview
- Affects
- All models with automatic transmission (AT).
- Remedy
- Fit new part
Repair steps
- Carry out electrical, mechanical and component tests (as applicable) to eliminate any other possible cause(s).
- If no fault(s) found: Fit new engine control module (ECM).
- Obtain and reprogram all keys.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 6.
Glossary
Technical terms used in this guide.
- ECM
- Engine control module — the electronic unit that manages the engine
- AC
- Air conditioning — the system that cools the cabin
- Control Module
- A control unit for one of the vehicle's systems (engine, gearbox, brakes, body, and so on)
- Fault Memory
- The list of stored trouble codes in a control module
- Multi-Plug
- A multi-pin electrical connector on a wiring harness
- Relay
- An electrically operated switch
- Reprogram
- Update the software on a control module using the manufacturer's diagnostic tool
- Trouble Code
- A standardised fault code stored by a control module, read with a diagnostic tool
- Wiring Harness
- The bundled cables that carry power and signals around the vehicle
Frequently asked questions
What are the common faults with the Toyota RAV4 2.0 D-4D?
This guide contains seven workshop bulletins for the Toyota RAV4 2.0 D-4D. Of these, three concern the engine and fuel system and two the clutch and gearbox. Symptoms, causes, repair steps and part numbers are shown where supplied.
Does every Toyota RAV4 2.0 D-4D have these faults?
No. These are patterns documented across the model by workshops, not predictions for an individual vehicle. Where a fault applies only to certain vehicles or VIN ranges, that is listed with the fault.
Can I check for Toyota RAV4 2.0 D-4D faults myself?
Many of them. The documented symptoms can be seen, heard or felt during a test drive.