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The Toyota RAV4 is one of the most trusted SUVs on the market. However, not every model year lives up to this reputation. One of the worst recent models is the RAV4 2019 due to many costly mechanical issues. Fortunately, the Toyota RAV4 models returned to form after the 2019 version.

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is the recent worst 

a white 2019 Toyota RAV4
2019 Toyota RAV4 | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

The RAV4 2019 was the best-selling SUV in its class for the year. However, Vehicle History reports that the SUV had seven recalls and 168 related Technical Service Bulletins. Though Toyota was able to remedy between 50 and 60 percent of the issues, it’s still concerning for a vehicle of the RAV4’s status and popularity. The great thing is that all the known mechanical problems with the Toyota SUV have an available fix.

A couple of the 2019 Toyota RAV4’s problems can be pretty serious. For one, some owners reported having faulty fuel pumps. Another major complaint is that, in some cases, the suspension arm becomes separated from the wheel cap. Of course, this is fairly dangerous and can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. 

There was also a recall for the RAV4 2019 due to coolant leaks, which caused complete engine failure in some cases. This resulted from some engines being made with an overabundance of porosity in the block. In addition, there were recalls due to other problems, such as grinding gears and stalling. To make matters worse, this RAV4 model is plagued with other transmission issues, such as lurching while driving.  

What it gets right 

a red RAV4 2019
2019 Toyota RAV4 | Atilgan Ozdil/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

There’s a reason the 2019 Toyota RAV4 was the most popular SUV of its class. Outside of the mechanical issues and recalls, it’s what everyone wants out of a Toyota SUV. It delivers pretty impressive performance with its 2.5-liter 203 horsepower engine. It has an eight-speed automatic transmission and can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in eight seconds, which was an increase from the prior model. 

This model RAV4 is also pretty fuel efficient, getting a combined average of 33 miles per gallon. On the inside, there’s a reasonably generous amount of storage space. The SUV has cubby storage and even a shelf. It doesn’t have the most advanced interior, but it’s comfortable and sturdy. 

How the Toyota RAV4 recovered

2019 Toyota RAV4 in black
2019 Toyota RAV4 | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

Though better, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 isn’t considered one of the best model years. Unfortunately, buyers still experienced engine and transmission problems. Luckily, the 2021 RAV4 model was a return to form. In fact, many call it one of the best from the lineup. 

In addition, the Toyota RAV4 has continued its trend of excellent mechanics and build quality since then. Unfortunately, most long-running vehicles have years of not being the greatest. What’s important is that the RAV4 recovered and is a reliable vehicle today for both new and most used models.

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