Are there any problems with the 2021 RAV4?

The 2021 RAV4 is generally a solid choice in the compact-SUV segment, but there are a few common issues reported by owners and some safety recalls to be aware of. Most concerns center on the CVT powertrain in gas and hybrid models, infotainment glitches, and occasional driver-assist warnings. Checking recall history and test-driving carefully can help buyers gauge their experience.

Common problems reported by owners

Below are the main issue areas highlighted by owners and documented in consumer feedback. Experiences vary by trim, mileage, and maintenance history.

• Transmission and drivetrain: Some owners report a CVT-related shudder, hesitation, or less-smooth feel during low-speed acceleration, with variation between gas-engine and hybrid versions.


• Infotainment and electronics: Reports include touchscreen unresponsiveness, Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity issues, and occasional software glitches requiring updates or resets.


• Driver-assist and safety features: Occasional false alerts or intermittent malfunctions of lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, or forward-collision warnings prompting dealer visits.


• Interior and comfort quirks: A subset of vehicles experience minor rattles, wind noise, or other cabin creaks that can affect perceived quality.

These reports come from owner experiences and service histories and do not affect every vehicle. Toyota maintains that most RAV4s from this era perform reliably in everyday use.

Safety recalls and official campaigns

Several recall campaigns have affected some 2021 RAV4s. If you own one, check the VIN against official recall databases to confirm status and arrange any required service at no cost to you.

• Fuel system and engine controls: Campaigns related to fuel delivery components or sensors to mitigate performance or safety risk.


• Airbags and occupant sensing: Inspections or replacements of airbag inflators or related sensors to ensure proper deployment in a crash.


• Electrical and software calibrations: Updates to infotainment, instrument cluster, or driver-assist software to address glitches or reliability concerns.


• Other safety-related components: Additional campaigns may address mechanical or mounting components with potential safety implications.

For precise information, contact a Toyota dealer or use the NHTSA recall lookup with your vehicle’s VIN to verify open recalls and schedule repairs if needed.

What to check when buying a 2021 RAV4

If you’re shopping for a used or new 2021 RAV4, here are the key checks to perform before signing a deal.

• VIN-based recall check: Ensure all recalls have been completed and review the vehicle’s service history for any campaigns.


• Test drive for CVT behavior: Listen for unusual sounds, feel for shuddering, and assess smoothness during acceleration from a stop and at steady speeds.


• Infotainment stress test: Test Bluetooth, CarPlay/Android Auto, and touch-screen responsiveness in different conditions (cold start, after driving, etc.).


• Driver-assist function check: Verify that lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision alerts behave consistently on a controlled route.


• Powertrain specifics by trim: If choosing Hybrid, inquire about battery conditioning and charging behavior; for the gas model, confirm transmission feel and overall responsiveness.

Considering a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted technician can help uncover issues not obvious in a test drive and provide a clearer picture of long-term maintenance needs.

Summary

The 2021 RAV4 remains a competitive choice in its class, combining practicality with strong reliability for many owners. However, it is not without issues: CVT behavior in gas and hybrid variants, infotainment glitches, and sporadic driver-assist warnings have been reported by some drivers. Recalls and safety campaigns exist, so VIN-specific recall checks are essential. With careful shopping, a thorough test drive, and confirmed recall history, most buyers can expect a dependable compact SUV experience.

Was 2021 a good year for Rav4?

Yes, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is generally considered a good car, praised for its safety, fuel efficiency (especially hybrid models), spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It offers a good balance of features and performance, though some reviewers noted a sluggish engine, uninspiring steering, and a noisy cabin as potential drawbacks. Consumer sentiment is mostly positive, but value is seen as its weakest point.
 
Pros

• Safety: It received excellent safety scores. 
• Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid models are especially fuel-efficient. 
• Interior: It has a roomy and comfortable interior with plenty of space. 
• Ride and Handling: It provides a comfortable ride and handles with a confident feel. 
• Technology: Standard equipment is generous, and the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid offers 42 miles of all-electric range. 
• Style: Many consumers like the styling. 

Cons

• Engine and Steering: Some reviewers found the engine performance and steering to be just satisfactory or indifferent. 
• Noise: Some owners have reported a noisy cabin. 
• Infotainment: Some connectivity issues with the infotainment system have been reported. 
• Value: Some owners feel the price can be a weakness, especially with options. 

Does the 2021 Rav4 have any problems?

What Owners Say. "Experiencing shudder and driveline vibration until low rpm engine loading (e.g., accelerating without a downshift at 60 km/h), when going up slight grade or around.

What is the most common problem with a Toyota Rav4?

The most common problem with a Toyota RAV4 is transmission issues, especially with the 8-speed automatic in certain models, leading to rough shifting or hesitation. Other frequent problems include engine issues like excessive oil consumption in some models, electrical failures with the infotainment system and sensors, and brake and suspension concerns such as squealing or premature wear. 
Transmission problems

• Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting, low-speed hesitation, delayed engagement, and difficulty getting into certain gears.
• Cause: In some older models, poor computer-transmission communication was an issue, while in newer models, the 8-speed automatic can develop problems around 150,000 miles. A lack of proper maintenance, such as infrequent transmission fluid changes, is a common factor. 

This video discusses common transmission issues in Toyota RAV4 models: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Nov 16, 2024
Engine problems 

• Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring more frequent top-offs, and intermittent stalling or rough running.
• Cause: Some four-cylinder engines are known to burn too much oil. 

Electrical and interior problems 

• Symptoms: Frozen infotainment screens, sensor faults, unexpected battery drain, and a blank display screen.
• Cause: These can be caused by software glitches in the telematics or infotainment systems, or issues with hardware like the 12-volt battery. 

Brake and suspension concerns

• Symptoms: Brake squealing, brake pulsation or vibration, and wear on pads and rotors.
• Cause: These can be related to the brake pads, discs, or sensors. Some older models also had rear suspension hardware issues that could affect alignment. 

Other common problems

• Fuel system: Issues where the fuel pump clicks off early, preventing the tank from appearing full. 
• Power liftgate: A lawsuit has been filed regarding the power liftgate hinges on certain models, alleging premature failure. 
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): The TPMS light may come on, indicating issues like low pressure, a leak, or a flat tire. 

Does the 2021 Rav4 have transmission problems?

Some 2021 RAV4 owners have reported transmission issues, including hesitant or rough shifting in the 8-speed automatic, as well as problems with the CVT in hybrid models. Common symptoms include shuddering, jerking or lurching forward, delayed shifting, and strange noises, often linked to maintenance neglect like delayed fluid changes or potential solenoid or torque converter problems. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems in 2021 RAV4 models, including transmission issues: 1mGearhead GlamYouTube · Mar 18, 2025
Common problems and symptoms

• Hesitant or rough shifting: The 8-speed automatic transmission can feel hesitant, especially when accelerating from a stop, with some drivers noting a "jerky" feeling between gears. 
• Shuddering or hesitation: Some owners report a shudder or vibration, particularly at low RPMs, and a hesitation to accelerate. 
• Jerking or lurching: Instances of the car jerking or lurching forward, particularly when accelerating from a slow speed or stop, have been reported, which can be a safety concern. 
• Delayed engagement: There can be a delay in the transmission engaging when shifting from park to drive. 
• Noises: Some drivers have experienced grinding noises, clunking, or a strange smell, which could indicate low lubricant or burning fluid. 

Potential causes

• Neglected maintenance: Many problems are linked to neglecting regular maintenance, especially not changing the transmission fluid and filter as recommended. 
• Faulty components: Problems with components like the solenoids or torque converter can prevent proper shifting. 
• Engine and transmission pairing: Some feel the 8-speed automatic transmission struggles to keep up with the engine's power in the 4-cylinder gas model, leading to "gear hunting". 
• Hybrid models: Hybrid models use a different system (eCVT) that is generally considered reliable, but owners have still reported issues, which can be different from gas models. 

What you should do

• Check your maintenance records: Ensure your transmission fluid has been changed according to the maintenance schedule. 
• Consult a mechanic: If you notice any of these symptoms, have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can check for fluid leaks, diagnostic trouble codes, and component failures. 
• Document issues: Keep a record of all symptoms, dates, and any repair attempts, as this is important for warranty claims and potential class-action lawsuits.