Toyota 2001 Rav4: Check engine light has been on since at least August, 2004 (documented). Toyota claimed to fix per a recall notice. From February 2002 to date, there has been intermittent groaning beneath car, whining in first gear, and what felt like clunking. Could not pass smog tests because of check engine light code. In October, 2009, car died. Could not restart, had to wait for tow (midnight on a dark road). Had work done in Oct, 2009, and I requested the parts. They replaced my coils, plugs and air filter for $1,330. I have had brakes replaced, fluids changed, O2 sensors replaced ( since then, the car is mis-shifting, clunking or groaning, rough engine. On 3/25/2010, I took it in and Toyota service recommended that I "let it go" and buy another car. They told me to just come and get the car without any work done, because it would cost me between $6,000-$7,000 for repairs. I was never told that I had ECM and transmission problems throughout all of these visits to Toyota service. I believe that Toyota "waited me out" so that they could just sell me another car instead of revealing the true cause of my problems. The ECM and transmission for this car is no longer available as a new item, so I would have to get a rebuilt transmission, which the defective ECM would end up destroying. I am afraid to drive the car because of the possibility that the transmission will fail.

- Walnut Creek, CA, USA

Engine light on two different times. Repaired 2nd time on warranty for $1500 for catalytic conv, 4 egr sensors etc. I fear I will pay next time out of warranty. Bought new. Well maintained, by the book.

- Woodland Hills, CA, USA

I am experiencing a 5 to 10 second dead spot in the acceleration of my new Rav4 several times a week. Based on internet web page forum postings, I have found other new Rav4 owners that have the same problem. I have been told by the dealer that sluggish accleration is the result of a new emmisions control computer. This is beyond sluggish, the car barely moves. Pulling into traffic, accross streets and intersections, I am at risk and never know if the car is going to move or not. A new emmisions control computer has been installed in ravs since 4/01 so this problem appears to be new. I'm not getting anywhere with Toyota on this, and neither are the other owners that have this problem.

- North Attleboro, MA, USA

Consumer states exhaust fumes could be smelled inside vehicle.

- Livonia, MI, USA