Toyota RAV4: Vehicle specifications - Specifications

This section provides reference information for the Toyota RAV4 and should be consulted when vehicle-specific details are required for inspection, maintenance, or service.

Always use the specifications that correspond to the vehicle's exact model, equipment, and configuration. Information may vary between versions, so the applicable vehicle details should be confirmed before service work or replacement parts are selected.

Following the correct specifications helps ensure that maintenance procedures are completed properly and that compatible fluids, components, and service requirements are used.

Maintenance data (fuel, oil level, etc.) Toyota RAV4 hybrid

Dimensions and weights

*1: Unladen vehicle
*2: Vehicles without 235/55R19 tires
*3: Vehicles with 235/55R19 tires
*4: Vehicles without a towing package
*5: Vehicles with a towing package

Seating capacity

Vehicle identification

■ Vehicle identification number

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the legal identifier assigned to your Toyota RAV4. It is the primary identification number used when registering the vehicle and recording its ownership. The VIN may also be required when arranging service, obtaining replacement parts, or referring to vehicle-specific records.

The vehicle identification number is located on the upper-left section of the instrument panel and can be viewed through the windshield.

On some models, the vehicle identification number is also stamped beneath the right-hand front seat.

The vehicle identification number is also printed on the Certification Regulation Label.

■ Engine number

The engine number is stamped directly on the engine block at the location shown. Use this number when accurate engine identification is required.

Engine

Fuel

Lubrication system

■ Oil capacity (Drain and refill - reference*)

*: The listed engine oil capacity is a reference quantity intended for use when changing the engine oil. When adding oil to the engine, verify the actual level with the dipstick and make sure it remains between the low-level mark and the refill upper-limit mark. Do not rely only on the reference capacity when establishing the final oil level.

Warm up the engine, turn it off, and wait approximately 5 minutes so that the oil can settle. Then remove the dipstick and check the engine oil level according to the indicated marks.

■ Engine oil selection

"Toyota Genuine Motor Oil" is used in your Toyota vehicle and is suitable for the specified lubrication requirements.

Use Toyota-approved "Toyota Genuine Motor Oil" or an equivalent engine oil that satisfies the grade and viscosity requirements listed below. Selecting oil that meets these requirements helps ensure that the Toyota RAV4 receives the correct lubrication under the intended operating conditions.

Oil grade:

ILSAC GF-6B multigrade engine oil

Recommended viscosity:

SAE 0W-16

SAE 0W-16 is the preferred choice for supporting good fuel economy and reliable engine starting in cold weather.

If SAE 0W-16 engine oil is not available, SAE 0W-20 may be used temporarily.

However, SAE 0W-20 must be replaced with SAE 0W-16 at the next scheduled oil change.

1. Outside temperature

Oil viscosity can be understood by using 0W-16 as an example:

• The "0W" in 0W-16 indicates the oil characteristics that affect cold-start performance.

  Engine oils with a lower number before the letter "W" generally allow the engine to start more easily in cold weather.

• The "16" in 0W-16 identifies the viscosity characteristics of the oil at a high operating temperature.

  An oil with a higher viscosity rating, represented by a higher number, may be better suited when the vehicle is regularly driven at high speeds or operated under extreme load conditions.

How to read an oil container label: An API-registered mark appears on some engine oil containers to help identify oil that meets the appropriate requirements. Check the container label carefully when selecting oil for your Toyota RAV4.

Cooling system

*: The listed coolant capacity is provided as a reference quantity.

If coolant replacement is necessary, contact your Toyota dealer so that the cooling system can be serviced correctly.

Ignition system (spark plug)

NOTICE

■ Iridium-tipped spark plugs

Use only the specified iridium-tipped spark plugs. Do not attempt to adjust the spark plug gap, as the plugs must be installed and used with the specified gap unchanged.

Electrical system (battery)

Automatic transmission

*: The listed automatic transmission fluid capacity is provided as a reference quantity.

If transmission fluid replacement becomes necessary, contact your Toyota dealer. Proper service is important because the correct fluid and procedure must be used for the Toyota RAV4 automatic transmission.

NOTICE

■ Automatic transmission fluid type

Use only the automatic transmission fluid specified for the vehicle. Using a different fluid may cause unusual noise or vibration and could damage the transmission of your Toyota RAV4.

Transfer (Dynamic Torque Control AWD vehicle)

Your Toyota vehicle is filled at the factory with "Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil" selected for the transfer system.

Use Toyota-approved "Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil" or an equivalent product of matching quality that satisfies the specification shown above. The correct oil is important for proper transfer operation and long-term component protection.

Contact your Toyota dealer for additional information about the approved oil and the correct service procedure.

Transfer (Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD vehicle)

NOTICE

■ Transfer oil type precaution

Use only the transfer oil specified for this AWD system. Using another type of oil may produce abnormal noise or vibration and could damage the transfer assembly of the Toyota RAV4.

Rear differential (Dynamic Torque Control AWD vehicle)

Your Toyota vehicle is filled at the factory with "Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil" formulated for the rear differential.

Use Toyota-approved "Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil" or an equivalent oil of matching quality that meets the specification listed above. Confirm that the product is suitable for the applicable rear differential before it is added.

Contact your Toyota dealer if further details about the required differential gear oil or replacement procedure are needed.

Rear differential (Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD vehicle)

NOTICE

■ Differential gear oil type precaution

Use only the specified differential gear oil. An unsuitable oil may cause abnormal noise or vibration and could damage the rear differential components of the vehicle.

Brakes

*: The value indicates the minimum pedal clearance when the brake pedal is depressed with a force of 300 N (30.5 kgf, 67.4 lbf) while the engine is running. This measurement should be checked under the stated conditions for an accurate comparison with the specification.

Steering

Tires and wheels

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type A)

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type B)

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type C)

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type D)

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type E)

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type F)

Vehicles with 17-inch wheels (type G)

Vehicles with 18-inch wheels

Vehicles with 19-inch wheels (type A)

Vehicles with 19-inch wheels (type B)

Vehicles with 19-inch wheels (type C)

The applicable tire and wheel data depends on the equipment fitted to the Toyota RAV4. Refer to the specification that matches the wheel size and type installed on the vehicle when checking tire pressure or selecting replacement tires and wheels.

Light bulbs

A: Wedge-base bulbs (clear)
B: Wedge-base bulbs (amber)

*1: A 28/8 W bulb is used; however, only the 28 W filament illuminates.
*2: If equipped

Fuel information Toyota RAV4 hybrid

Use only unleaded gasoline in your Toyota RAV4.

Select gasoline with an octane rating of 87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher. Using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating below 87 may cause engine knocking.

Persistent or heavy knocking can eventually damage the engine and should not be ignored.

At a minimum, the gasoline used in the vehicle must meet ASTM D4814 specifications in the U.S.A. Choosing fuel that satisfies the stated requirements supports proper engine operation and performance.

■ Gasoline quality

In rare cases, driveability problems may be related to the particular brand or formulation of gasoline being used. If these problems continue, try refueling with a different brand of gasoline that meets all specified requirements. If changing brands does not correct the condition, consult your Toyota dealer for inspection and assistance.

■ Recommendation of the use of gasoline containing detergent additives

• Toyota recommends using gasoline that contains detergent additives to help prevent deposits from accumulating inside the engine.
• All gasoline sold in the U.S.A. contains a minimum concentration of detergent additives designed to clean or help keep intake systems clean, in accordance with the EPA's lowest additive concentration program.
• Toyota strongly recommends using Top Tier Detergent Gasoline whenever it is available.

  For additional information about Top Tier Detergent Gasoline and a current list of participating fuel marketers, refer to the official website at www.toptiergas.com.

■ Recommendation of the use of low-emissions gasoline

Gasoline containing oxygenates, including ethers and ethanol, as well as reformulated gasoline, is available in some cities. These fuels are generally acceptable for use in the Toyota RAV4 as long as they also satisfy all other fuel requirements stated in this section.

Toyota recommends the use of these fuels because their formulations can help reduce vehicle emissions while maintaining appropriate operating performance.

■ Non-recommendation of the use of blended gasoline

• Use only gasoline containing no more than 15% ethanol.

  DO NOT use flex-fuel or any gasoline that may contain more than 15% ethanol. This includes fuel dispensed from pumps labeled E30 (30% ethanol A), E50 (50% ethanol B), or E85 (85% ethanol C), which are examples of fuels with ethanol concentrations above the permitted limit.

• If gasohol is used in the vehicle, make sure its octane rating is no lower than 87 and that its ethanol content remains within the specified limit.
• Toyota does not recommend using gasoline that contains methanol, as it may not be compatible with the vehicle's fuel requirements.

■ Non-recommendation of the use of gasoline containing MMT

Some gasoline contains an octane-enhancing additive known as MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).

Toyota does not recommend using gasoline that contains MMT in the Toyota RAV4.

Fuel containing MMT may adversely affect the operation of the emission control system.

The malfunction indicator lamp on the instrument cluster may illuminate if the emission control system is affected.

If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on after fuel containing MMT has been used, contact your Toyota dealer for service.

■ If your engine knocks

• Consult your Toyota dealer if engine knocking persists or becomes severe.
• A light knocking sound may occasionally be heard for a short period while accelerating or driving uphill. This is considered normal and does not require concern when it is brief and infrequent.

NOTICE

■ Notice on fuel quality

• Do not use fuel that does not meet the stated requirements. Improper fuel can damage the engine and affect vehicle operation.
• Do not use leaded gasoline.

  Leaded gasoline can damage the three-way catalytic converters and may cause the emission control system to malfunction.

• Do not use gasohol other than the type and concentration specified above.

  Unsuitable gasohol may damage components of the fuel system or cause vehicle performance problems.

• Using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating below the specified minimum may cause persistent, heavy engine knocking.

  If this condition continues, serious engine damage may result.

■ Fuel-related poor driveability

If poor driveability, such as difficult hot starting, fuel vaporization, engine knocking, or similar symptoms, occurs after using a different type or brand of fuel, stop using that fuel. Refill the Toyota RAV4 with gasoline that meets the specified requirements and consult your Toyota dealer if the condition continues.

■ When refueling with gasohol

Take care not to spill gasohol on the vehicle. If spilled, it may damage the painted surfaces of your Toyota RAV4.

Tire information Toyota RAV4

Typical tire symbols

Full-size tire

Compact spare tire

1. Tire size
2. DOT symbol and Tire Identification Number (TIN)
3. Location of the treadwear indicators molded into the tire
4. Tire ply composition and materials
   Plies are layers made from parallel cords coated with rubber. The cords are the individual strands that form each structural ply within the tire.
5. Radial tires or bias-ply tires
   A radial tire has the word "RADIAL" molded into its sidewall. A tire that is not marked "RADIAL" is classified as a bias-ply tire.
6. TUBELESS or TUBE TYPE
   A tubeless tire does not contain a separate inner tube, and the air is held directly inside the tire and wheel assembly. A tube-type tire contains an inner tube that maintains the tire's air pressure.
7. Load limit at the maximum cold tire inflation pressure
8. Maximum cold tire inflation pressure
   This is the highest pressure to which the tire may be inflated while the tire is cold. It should not be confused with the recommended operating pressure specified for the vehicle.
9. Uniform tire quality grading
   For an explanation of these ratings, refer to the "Uniform Tire Quality Grading" information provided later in this section.
10. Summer tires or all-season tires
    An all-season tire has the marking "M+S" molded into the sidewall. A tire without the "M+S" marking is considered a summer tire.
11. "TEMPORARY USE ONLY"
    A compact spare tire can be identified by the words "TEMPORARY USE ONLY" molded into its sidewall. This tire is intended only for temporary use during an emergency and is not a replacement for a regular full-size tire.

Typical DOT and Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Type A

1. DOT symbol*
2. Tire Identification Number (TIN)
3. Tire manufacturer's identification mark
4. Tire size code
5. Manufacturer's optional tire type code consisting of 3 or 4 letters
6. Manufacturing week
7. Manufacturing year

*: The DOT symbol confirms that the tire complies with the applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Type B

1. DOT symbol*
2. Tire Identification Number (TIN)
3. Tire manufacturer's identification mark
4. Manufacturer's code
5. Manufacturing week
6. Manufacturing year

*: The DOT symbol confirms that the tire complies with the applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Tire size

■ Typical tire size information

The illustration below shows a typical tire-size designation and identifies the meaning of each letter and number. Refer to the actual tire sidewall when confirming the tire size fitted to your Toyota RAV4.

1. Tire use
   (P = Passenger car,
   T = Temporary use)
2. Section width in millimeters
3. Aspect ratio
   Relationship of tire height to section width
4. Tire construction code
   (R = Radial, D = Diagonal)
5. Wheel diameter in inches
6. Load index consisting of 2 or 3 digits
7. Speed symbol represented by a single letter

■ Tire dimensions

1. Section width measured across the tire
2. Tire height from the bead area to the outer tread surface
3. Wheel diameter

Tire section names

1. Bead
2. Sidewall
3. Shoulder
4. Tread
5. Belt
6. Inner liner
7. Reinforcing rubber
8. Carcass
9. Rim lines
10. Bead wires
11. Chafer

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

This information has been prepared in accordance with regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

It provides purchasers and prospective purchasers of Toyota vehicles with standardized information about tire quality grading. These grades allow certain tire characteristics to be compared under defined testing conditions.

Your Toyota dealer can answer questions that may arise while reviewing the grading information or selecting tires suitable for your Toyota RAV4.

■ DOT quality grades

In addition to receiving the quality grades described below, all passenger-vehicle tires must comply with applicable Federal Safety Requirements. When assigned, the quality grades are molded into the tire sidewall between the tread shoulder and the maximum section width.

A typical marking may read: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A.

■ Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of a tire when it is tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.

For example, a tire graded 150 would be expected to wear one and one-half times as well on the government test course as a tire graded 100.

The actual relative performance of tires depends on the conditions in which they are used. Results may vary substantially from the standardized rating because of differences in driving habits, maintenance practices, road surfaces, climate, vehicle loading, and other operating conditions.

■ Traction AA, A, B, C

The traction grades, listed from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. These grades represent a tire's ability to stop on wet pavement when measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces made of asphalt and concrete.

A tire marked with a traction grade of C may provide comparatively poor traction performance on wet pavement.

Warning: The traction grade assigned to a tire is based only on straight-ahead braking traction tests. It does not measure cornering, turning, acceleration, or other traction characteristics.

■ Temperature A, B, C

The temperature grades are A, which is the highest rating, followed by B and C. They indicate the tire's resistance to heat generation and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.

Sustained exposure to high temperatures can cause tire materials to deteriorate and shorten tire life. Excessive heat can also contribute to sudden tire failure.

Grade C represents the minimum performance level that all passenger-car tires must meet under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109.

Grades B and A represent progressively higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum level required by law.

Warning: A tire's temperature grade is established on the assumption that the tire is correctly inflated and is not overloaded.

Excessive vehicle speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, whether occurring separately or together, can produce excessive heat buildup and may lead to tire failure. Correct tire pressure and loading are therefore essential when operating the Toyota RAV4.

Glossary of tire terminology

*: Table 1 - Occupant loading and distribution for the normal vehicle load according to the various designated seating capacities.