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CarComplaints.com Notes: If you're looking for a vehicle with one of the most complained about transmission on the road, look no further than the 2001-2003 Toyota RAV4.

In 2001 Toyota completely redesigned the popular SUV. While some enjoyed the new look, they did not enjoy the harsh shifting, jumping from gear-to-gear and eventual transmission failure that cost owners well over $3,000 to fix. The problem stems from a malfunctioning Electronic Control Module (ECM).

Consumer outrage coupled with pressure from different agencies led Toyota to extend the warranty nationwide back in 2010. The previous power train warranty only covered 5 years/60,000 miles, while the extended warranty now covers the transmission and ECM for 10 years/150,000 miles. Toyota also pledged to reimburse any owners who had previously paid for repairs, if they had "proper proof". Good luck collecting on that one.

10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
0 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2002 Toyota RAV4 windows / windshield problems

windows / windshield problem

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2002 Toyota RAV4 Owner Comments

problem #1

Aug 082002

(reported on)

RAV4

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

By accident, I put my driver's side rear window approx. 1/2 way down. Unknowingly, I left the window down. When I reached an approximate speed of 40miles per hour, a very severe noise and vibration occurred. It was so severe, I pulled over to check the vehicle. I thought a tire had blown. The vibration and noise is very intense. Once the window is up, the noise and vibration stops. If a combination front/rear window down happens, it is not as noticable. I called Toyota, and they said it was a design flaw. Flaw or no, it is horrible. It could be tragic if a driver unaware pulls over quickly because they fear a tire is going to blow.at the minimum, I feel Toyota should send owners a letter describing the problem S they will not be alarmed. I will not put my rear windows down, and that in itself is sad to spend 23 thousand dollars on a new vehicle and be limited in that respect. Thanks for your attention to this matter. Linda jones.

- Pinnacle, NC, USA

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