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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
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
102,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (1 reports)
2003 Toyota RAV4 electrical problems

electrical problem

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2003 Toyota RAV4 Owner Comments

problem #1

Feb 102012

RAV4 S

  • Automatic transmission
  • 102,000 miles

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

The car was parked. Before anything could be done the car was engulfed in flames. It was so sudden we still cant believe it. Thank God there was no one in the vehicle or it would have been a tragedy. Please contact if anyone else has had this problem.

- Diana R., Aguada, PR, Puerto Rico

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