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2019 Toyota RAV4 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·5 Critical Recalls
2019 Toyota RAV4 Report

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The fuel tank filling issue is a primary concern, impacting usability and potentially leading to inaccurate fuel readings.
  • With 11 recalls, including critical ones for the fuel pump and steering assist, confirm all manufacturer remedies have been completed.
  • Expect potential repair costs due to a high number of complaints related to the fuel/propulsion system and engine.
  • The 2019 RAV4 has a 'Below Average' reliability rating, making pre-purchase inspections crucial.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Toyota RAV4

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts a strong overall safety rating of 5 from NHTSA, its reliability is a significant concern, earning a 'Below Average' verdict. This is largely due to a widespread issue where owners report difficulty fully refueling the gasoline tank, often leaving the gauge well below full and reducing the effective driving range. This problem affects both hybrid and non-hybrid models. Furthermore, the vehicle has been subject to 11 recalls, including critical campaigns for the fuel pump, steering assist, and engine cooling system. These, combined with numerous customer complaints, particularly concerning the fuel/propulsion system and engine, warrant careful consideration before purchase. Potential repair costs associated with these issues should be factored into ownership expectations.

Critical Failure Risk

Inability to fill the fuel tank completely, with the pump shutting off prematurely. This is a widespread complaint affecting usability and accurate fuel level readings.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls11
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1117
Fuel/Propulsion System251
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
30
MPG
City
26
MPG
Highway
35
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

4.2/ 10

Practicality

5.4/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize safety ratings and are willing to conduct rigorous pre-purchase inspections to mitigate known reliability concerns.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Toyota RAV4 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Toyota RAV4.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT)
Drivetrain
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
EPA Combined MPG
30

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System

Most reported

Usage: 251 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 197 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
11 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Toyota RAV4 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is 4.2/10. Reliability score is 4.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 1,117.

How practical is the 2019 Toyota RAV4 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

Base MSRP is $33,050.

What engine is in the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2019 Toyota RAV4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Toyota RAV4, transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT). The paired drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

12 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Toyota RAV4, seating capacity is 5.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Toyota RAV4 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Toyota RAV4, drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4. Transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2019 Toyota RAV4 good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is a practical SUV with a focus on reliability and fuel efficiency, not performance tuning.

What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (251 reports, 22.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Toyota RAV4?▾

This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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