FIXING YOUR TOYOTA RAV4’S AWD SYSTEM MALFUNCTION

Introduction

The Toyota RAV4 is an intricately designed vehicle with its All Wheel Drive system being one of the most fascinating, empowering, and important features. However, as with any car system, it is prone to problems which makes the issue fixing your Toyota RAV4’s AWD system malfunction so crucial.

Before we start, I should tell you why getting this system correctly diagnosed and repaired is hugely necessary. This is because many RAV4 owners who haven’t been able to figure it out have wasted hundreds or even thousands of dollars on things that don’t work. These include things like expensive yet unnecessary replacement of thermostat, oil transmissions, or even an entire drive train! But, if you stick through this article with me then hopefully, that won’t be you.

In this article, I’m writing everything I know through my research of several other popular blog posts. I have analyzed platforms like Reddit, RAV4 World, and other pages where tens of actual RAV4 owners have discussed the A-Z of the causes and solutions of AWD malfunction in the RAV4. I have also mentioned the valuable insights I have been able to gain in this post. So stay confident in the depth of the information covered in this article as it will suffice you through resolving this problem while also saving you from breaking the bank. Let’s dive right in.

What is the error? 

If you have had the AWD system malfunction message you know that it appears on the multi-information display on your dashboard. This error shows between the tachometer and the speedometer of the display.

The error message reads “AWD System Malfunction, 2WD Mode Engaged.” It also tells you, “Visit Your Dealer”.

When your RAV4 shows you this message, don’t worry about losing your entire grip on your SUV. The system is designed to automatically turn on the 2-wheel drive to ensure your safety.

AWD Malfunction Message

Picture credits: Car Gurus

What causes the error?

There are a few important causes behind why the error occurs. These include the following systems as well as separate parts. These are as follows:

• EVAP System
• Transmission System
• Cooling System
• Tires
• Battery
• Wheel speed sensor
• Driving Habits
• Transfer Case
• Code 

EVAP System

While I was reading people’s comments on the problems they found behind the AWD malfunction, the EVAP-related malfunctions may as well take the first prize as the most common of the reasons. This is interestingly because of the EVAP systems’s ability to trigger a fault code which disables the AWD.

The Evaporative emission control system (EVAP) is responsible for keeping the gas securely locked in a vacuum. If it sees that the fumes are leaking, it sends a code that automatically switches your RAV4 to a 2-wheel drive giving you the AWD error. But how will you identify whether the reason for the AWD error message was EVAP-induced? Here are some signs that may show a problem with the EVAP system:

• Fuel Odor
• Decreased Fuel Economy
• Hard Starting or Rough Idle
• Failed Emissions Test
• “Check engine” light on

If you have any of these errors, you have a good news and a bad news. The good news first, there isn’t really anything directly wrong with the AWD system. It’s just that the conditions that the AWD requires to function properly i.e. no gas fume leaks, haven’t been met. So as a caution, the system is shifted to a 2-wheel drive. The bad news is any of the following could be the cause:

Loose gas cap:

A loose gas cap is a problem because it lets out fumes from the gas tank and turns on the check engine light and MIL.

Solution:

A solution to this may be to simply tighten it up till you hear a click. In case of debris,  you may simply clean it up and tighten it. If, however, it is defective or wobbly, you can replace it cheaply as most gas caps only cost between $9 to $18.

Failed evaporative control canister filter:

If there is a fault in the evaporative control canister filter, (also called the charcoal canister) the leaking gasoline fumes won’t get absorbed by the canister or be sent back to the gas tank. This can lead to a hard starting or rough idle. It can also cause your RAV4 to have a decreased fuel economy and also fail the emissions test.

Solution:

Therefore, if it is not working, it is important to replace it. Know that this may cost you between $633 and $786. Too bad!

Broken purge valve:

A broken purge valve is another EVAP problem because it normally does the job of sending the fumes stored on the canister filter back to the engine. If it is broken, you might see the check engine light on or have a rough idling.

Solution:

Make sure to get it replaced by a mechanic. It may cost somewhere between $160 and $194 on average.

Faulty EVAP fuel tank pressure sensor:

If the EVAP’s own sensor is malfunctioning it can misread the pressure and give out false codes of fuel leakage. This can instigate the AWD error message as well. Also, you should have your heads-up on problems like the check engine light, hard starting, fuel odor, or even black smoke coming from the tail-pipe.

Solution:

If you see this happening, I suggest you go to the mechanic and get a new sensor. I assume it will cost you around $100-$200. 

Transmission System

The transmission system is another integral part of keeping the AWD system functioning. In my analysis, I have found the transmission system to be the second most common system culprit behind the AWD system malfunction message. Know that this is relevant to you only if you have an automatic transmission system in your RAV4. So for those of you who do, I have compiled the important indicators of this problem below:

• The service engine soon light
• A transmission or fluid-related warning light
• Neutral is noisy
• Slower gear engagement
• Burning smell
• Difficulty slipping gears
• Range sensor reads over 200,000 miles 

Have any of these signs? I know it can be a bit worrisome. But, let’s look further into what specific parts might be causing this as well as their respective solutions:

A faulty transmission range sensor:

A faulty transmission range sensor can cause many issues. It can bring about the “service engine soon” light on i.e. after your car starts in the first place. You may also have difficulty shifting gears. 

Solution:

I should tell you this could likely be a serious problem like all other transmission-related problems. You should probably rush to purchase a new sensor for around $25-$100.

Low transmission fluid levels:

If you have low transmission fluids, this can be an issue as this can lead to a slower engagement when you shift the gears. It can also cause difficulty slipping gears and a burning smell.

Solution:

If you are noticing these issues, it better to quickly get the transmission levels back up. But remember fellas, you will need to buy the same transmission fluid as you used before or it may cause issues later on.

Total transmission range reached:

If your RAV4 has completed over 200,000 or even 250,000 miles, it has reached near end of its lifetime. Meaning have gotten all the life out of it.

Solution:

At this point, the solution is to say goodbye to the old SUV and buy a new one.

Cooling System

The cooling system is responsible for effectively circulating the coolant to keep the engine cool. While researching the reasons behind AWD malfunction, the cooling system was by far the most dangerous one. Weird right? But true. This is because if it malfunctions, the entire engine might quit working all of a sudden. This is of course without much care about whether you are driving on a busy highway. So, check for the following signs and symptoms of this problem:

• Warning light on the dashboard
• Engine overheat
• A sweet smell or smoke coming from the engine
• Reduced gas mileage
• White smoke coming from tail-pipe 
• Puddle under your car with orange, green, or pink fluid

If you have recently come across any of these, then you need to hurry to the mechanic as the progressive severity of the problem may damage the engine which will require a bigger investment if it is delayed.

Broken thermostat: 

A broken thermostat fails to do its job which is to open the coolant flow through the radiator to keep the engine cool. If your thermostat is broken your engine might overheat and release smells. The gas mileage will also reliably decrease. Probably another more noticeable sign may be fluid collecting at the bottom of your RAV4.

Solution:

If you see any of these signs, I suggest you should get the thermostat checked and replaced for $5-$15. This means a cheap fix compared to the subsequent heat damage to the drive train which might cost you thousands of dollars to fix at minimum.

Cracked radiator:

A cracked radiator is a problem. Because if it malfunctions, it can not dissipate the heat of the engine. This, again, makes the engine overheat and release toxic smells. You will also see puddles of coolant fluid collect at the bottom or bubbles leak from the top of the radiator. Or you might see coolant leak out of the tail-pipe of your RAV4.

Solution:

So to deal with this problem, you may purchase a new radiator for between $761-$973. You can get it installed by the mechanic or, you can give it a try yourself.

Broken Water pump:

The water pump, also called the coolant pump is the heart of the cooling system. If it is damaged, the coolant won’t be properly circulated through the engine. If this problem is not fixed the engine may overheat causing a decrease in fuel economy or steam released from the hood. You may also see the coolant leak into a puddle at the bottom or coming out from the tail-pipe. Moreover, a coolant warning light will also manifest on the dashboard.

Solution:

If you possess some mechanical ability, I suggest you watch this video on YouTube. Remember, you can find a new water pump for just $10-$20. Go ahead and comment below if you are successful with your attempt.

Low coolant levels:

A low coolant level borders on danger because there isn’t enough fluid to go around the engine to cool it down. If the coolant levels are low, your engine might overheat, and subsequently get damaged. It will also pop up the low coolant warning light. If this happens, you need to get the coolant levels up again.

Solution:

You should wait till your engine is cool and then open your hood and fill the coolant reservoir. Make sure the level rises to F (full). If you don’t know how to do it, I suggest you check out this video for an easy DIY.

Temperature Guage needle incorrect:

If the gauge needle shows an incorrect temperature, it means the coolant temperature sensor (CTS) is broken. You can usually tell this if you try a little experiment, like getting your car on idle or moving it slowly and see if the gauge needle shifts to cold. If it does, then your gauge is incorrect. You may also notice an increased mileage because of this.

Solution:

If you are experiencing these signs in your RAV4, I would recommend you purchase the CTS for $20-$26. Do this quick before the matters get worse.

Tires

Having a matching set of tires is important for the functionality of your RAV4’s AWD system. An even set ensures strong traction and protects the drive train from damage. But how will you know whether the AWD is malfunctioning because of uneven tires? The following are the signs of mismatching tires you need to look for:

• Low-tire pressure message on the dashboard display
• A horseshoe-shaped light with an exclamation mark on the dashboard display
• Noise while accelerating

These symptoms indicate that the AWD system may well be fine but since it depends on the tires to be able to function, it doesn’t work. So, I’m sharing a few practical solutions for this problem:

Mismatched tires:

If all four or even one of the tires on your RAV4 is different then it may need replacement. These differences may be in terms of the brand, tread design, size, and depth.

Solution:

Ensure that all four of your RAV4’s tires are the same. This might mean a roughly $500-$1000 bill. Ouch!

Underinflated tires:

If all four of your tires are the same, they may not all be properly inflated. A difference in gas can also lead to a difference in tire size.

Solution:

Getting the pressure checked by the mechanic and getting the air filled is the solution to this problem. This will often be enough to solve the problem. Alternatively, you can do it yourself, if you have some mechanical expertise.

Seasonal change in tire air:

Interestingly having summer air in your RAV4 while driving in winter or vise versa can also cause the AWD to shut down. It can throw off the rotation and give out fault errors.

Solution:

So, if you got the tires inflated in summer the last time, get the air changed. And if you got tires inflated when it was cold, you can reinflate them now! This way you can prevent the AWD malfucntion message from occuring again.

Battery 

The battery of your RAV4 is a source of power for the electric motor. An issue with this part may result in the AWD message showing on your dashboard. This is because the RAV4 computers are very sensitive to battery voltage. They tend not to work if there are any abrupt highs or lows. These can cause the AWD message and result in a 2-wheel drive. Here, I am listing all the potential signs and damaging behaviors that cause this issue so you may find it easier to decipher the AWD error.

• Jump-starting your battery while it was dead or on charging
• Idling or leaving the battery running for too long
• Slow cranking
• EBP malfunction

To solve this problem, follow the instructions below:

Weak battery: 

In case you have a weak battery, you should try to get it charged instead of jump-starting it. Also, idling your RAV4 is a bad idea especially if you do so frequently. 

Solution:

If you are confused about how to solve this problem, you can watch this video. It covers everything you need to know about how to test the voltage and charge it as well. Alternatively, you may get it replaced for $986-$993.

Bad battery:

If you have a bad battery on your RAV4, this may show as slow cranking or EBP malfunction. If you don’t have a voltage meter you can go to a car parts store like Autozone or O’Reilly. You can get a free battery check for the voltage and condition of your battery. They will help determine if your battery is getting weak or if you may need a new one.

Solution:

To solve this issue, try disconnecting and reconnecting the battery again after a few minutes. This will reset the car computer which will reset the AWD as well. You may watch how to do this on your own in this video. If you don’t have the jumper wires required in the video, you may simply turn the headlights on to make sure that the battery has drained entirely.

Note: Remember, you might need to reset the time after you reset the computer. Also, you may notice your RAV4 idles a little low and roughly after you do this. However, this will only last for a day or two before it sets back to normal. So, don’t lose your confidence in your mechanic skills.

Wheel Speed Sensor

A wheel speed sensor is another component that plays an important role in the functioning of the AWD. It has sensors that monitor wheel speed. They send signals to the vehicle’s computer. The computer then adjusts the power distribution. A wheel speed sensor malfunctioning can disrupt the AWD system’s power distribution. This disruption leads to less traction and stability. Luckily, there is an easy solution to replace the sensor. Here are the signs you need to be watching out for:

• Illuminated ABS (Anti-lock braking system) warning light
• Illuminated Traction Control light
• Problems in cruise control

In case you have these issues with your RAV4, I suggest you turn to the following parts to get a more detailed picture of the causes and cures to them:

Faulty wheel speed sensor:

A faulty wheel speed sensor can light the ABS warning light and cause problems with traction control of your RAV4. This makes sense because the sensors are responsible for telling the ABS when to turn on. This is why they are also called the ABS sensors. But, did you know that a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor can also cause your cruise control to be disabled? I did not.

Solution:

You can get a faulty wheel speed sensor for $200 – $400  and get it replaced by any professional car mechanic. Alternatively, I would personally encourage you you to give it a try yourself. It is actually very easy and you can save yourself the mechanic’s fee.

Dirty sensor:

The wheel speed sensor is notorious in the world of car parts for hosting layers of dust, grime, and small pieces of metal on it. This can unfortunately lead to problems as a dirty sensor is no good  for the job.

Solution:

If this is the case for you, I recommend you go to the car wash and get an undercarriage wash. This will rinse off any dust that may have affected the sensors.

Driving Habits

Frequently flooring your acceleration pedal is a bad idea when it comes to preserving the optimal functionality of your AWD drive train. It wears out many of the parts of the engine and also brings about damage to others.

Solution:

Driving at a normal speed and being mindful of the road conditions will destress the AWD and also ensure safety for the driver, passengers, and other vehicles. 

Transfer Case

Tips on maintenance

Before concluding, I would like to highlight some of the best tips for maintaining a healthy AWD functionality that will bring you much thrill and satisfaction over the years. Here are the tips that will keep your RAV4 you and save you hundreds or perhaps thousands of dollars on repair:

• checking the transmission fluid levels
• maintaining fluid levels in the transfer case
• inspecting the wheel speed sensors for damage or corrosion
• replacing the water pump in case of rust
• change batter every 3-5 years
• Ensure high coolant levels
• changing transmission fluid every 60, 000 to 100,000 miles

Also, keep an eye on the vehicle’s dashboard for warning lights or any error codes. These indicators can help provide valuable information about the functioning of the AWD function.

Sources

All the information relating to the causes has been meticulously analyzed from the different pages on platforms like Reddit, Just Answer, RAV4 World, and RAV4 World (2 separate pages from RAV4 World were used) where actual RAV4 owners discussed the AWD system Malfunction in their Toyota RAV4s.

The prices for the parts have been taken from the entrusted brand, Autozone. Remember, the prices mentioned here are for the parts alone. The mechanic’s service fee will be separate. 

Conclusion

Fixing your Toyota RAV4’s AWD system malfunction is important and now that you have learned how to fix it, let’s do a quick recap. You are likely struggling with issues with the EVAP, tranmission, cooling or other car parts. These parts include tires, battery, wheel speed sensor, transfer case and codes.

I encourage you to diagnose and solve these yourself first and tell us in the comment section which problem you found caused the AWD malfunctiona and how you resolved it. And, if, however, you weren’t able to do much, how much did the repair cost you. Comment your experiences below and remember a quick diagnosis of issues, proper repairs along with regular maintenance is key. This way you can ensure the long-term reliability and functionality of your RAV4’s AWD system.

FAQs

Q1: Can you drive with the AWD light on?

Yes, you can. You can drive with the AWD (All-Wheel Drive) light on. The light usually signals a problem with the AWD system, but that doesn’t automatically mean the car is unsafe to drive. Nevertheless, it is advisable to have a professional mechanic inspect the system to guarantee that it is functioning at its best and is safe.

Q2: What is the difference between 4WD and AWD? 

The main difference is how they distribute power. Four-wheel drive (4WD) lets you manually turn on or off all four wheels for maximum traction. It’s ideal for off-road or rugged terrain. In contrast, AWD systems distribute power to all wheels as needed. They provide better traction on roads but may lack 4WD’s off-road ability.

Q3: Is the RAV4 AWD reliable?  

Yes, the RAV4 AWD is generally considered reliable. Toyota is known for building dependable and durable vehicles, and the RAV4 is no exception. Its AWD system adds traction and stability. It is popular with drivers in many climates and road conditions. Regular maintenance and servicing can help ensure its continued reliability.

Q4: Can I press the AWD button while driving?  

No, it’s generally not recommended to press the AWD button while driving. It’s safer to do this when the vehicle is stationary to avoid potential damage to the drivetrain or loss of control.

Q5: How do I make sure my AWD is working? 

You can ensure your AWD works by testing it in low-traction conditions, such as snow, mud, or gravel. Listen for any abnormal noises and observe how the vehicle handles them. Also, you can have a pro inspect the AWD system. They will ensure all parts work.

Q6: Can AWD switch to 2WD?

Yes, some AWD systems can switch to 2WD mode. This is typically better for fuel efficiency or when extra traction isn’t needed.

Q7: What should I do if my Toyota RAV4’s AWD system malfunctions?

If you observe a problem with your RAV4’s AWD system, the first step is to pull over safely and inspect for any warning lights or abnormal sounds. It is recommended to have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle to diagnose and resolve the issue quickly.

Q8: Can I continue driving if my RAV4’s AWD system malfunctions?

No, it’s not recommended to continue driving if you suspect a malfunction in your RAV4’s AWD system, as it could lead to further damage or compromise safety.

Q9: How much does fixing a malfunctioning AWD system in a Toyota RAV4 cost?

The price of repairing a faulty AWD system in a Toyota RAV4 may differ based on the severity of the problem and the repairs required. It is advisable to seek the advice of a certified mechanic for a precise evaluation and estimation of expenses.

Q10: How can I prevent AWD system malfunctions in my Toyota RAV4?

To prevent AWD system malfunctions in your Toyota RAV4, it is important to adhere to the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer and have regular inspections performed by a certified mechanic.