I have had the problem of rav4 hesitating, not shifting, feels like it will stall out due to no power. First had a complete tune-up ($300) in June 2010, Check engine light still on was on but mechanic replaced EGR valve and vacu-valve for EGR in Sept. 2010 costing more that $300. Check engine light is now off but continue to have intermittent "spasms" as I call them. This is a bunch of BS and this car sucks the big one. The last 2 Toyotas I bought have been pieces of s#@t and I'm sick of putting money into this. It sounds like it's the problem described for other RAV4's (ECM and transmission) are the culprit.

I will NEVER buy a Toyota again after reading all the complaints with this problem and the fact Toyota refuses to accept responsibility for this. They should be ashamed!!!!!! If there is a class action lawsuit, add me to your list.

Four months ago I purchased a 1999 Toyota RAV4. My problem seems similar to transmission, ECM problems described for the 2002 RAV4. Car hesitates, jerks, and has difficulty switching gears. Check engine light just came on. IT IS GETTING WORSE!! Has anyone had this problem with the 1999? I can't afford to fix it and wonder if I do where should I take it(sounds like a dealer won't be helpful), should I have it towed.... have I already damaged the transmission? Problem started to be noticeable two days ago. I read some info. about possible class action suits for 2002, what is happening with that? Thanks for any info....