2021 Toyota RAV4 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Passenger airbag failure to deploy is the most significant risk, stemming from a critical OCS sensor defect and numerous owner complaints.
- The electrical system and engine are also areas of concern, with a notable number of complaints suggesting potential for costly repairs.
- While the RAV4 achieves a good combined MPG of 30, potential buyers should factor in the risk of expensive component failures.
- Confirm that both recalls related to the Occupant Classification System have been addressed by a dealer.
2021 Toyota RAV4
Critical Failure Risk
The primary concern is the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, which can prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying in a crash. This is linked to two recalls. Symptoms include the 'Passenger Airbag OFF' light illuminating incorrectly.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy shoppers who prioritize safety ratings and fuel efficiency, and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections and potentially budget for unexpected repairs, may consider the 2021 RAV4.
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a worry-free ownership experience or those unwilling to meticulously verify recall completion and perform in-depth mechanical inspections should look elsewhere.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Toyota RAV4.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 30
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 114 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 37 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 0W-16 Synthetic Oil (Hybrid), 0W-20 Synthetic Oil (Gas), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $70 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is 6.0/10. Reliability score is 6.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 449.
How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Toyota RAV4?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Toyota RAV4?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 0W-16 Synthetic Oil (Hybrid), 0W-20 Synthetic Oil (Gas), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (OCS Sensor) (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
Base MSRP is $37,330.
What engine is in the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.
What transmission does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
15 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 2021 Toyota RAV4?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 is a practical SUV that prioritizes fuel efficiency and comfort over performance. Its powertrain, featuring a 2.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
Top complaint category: air bags (114 reports, 25.4% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.