Fixing Your Toyota RAV4 AWD System Malfunction (Defined)  

Fixing Your Toyota RAV4 AWD System Malfunction When this warning suddenly comes on the dashboard, it will make you nervous when it hit your major system, like all-wheel drive (AWD).  

In this guide, I will give you some basic knowledge about how to prevent this, what the causes are, and how we can tackle it, so stay with us.  

Fixing Your Toyota RAV4 AWD System Malfunction Inspecting the Error  

Fixing your Toyota RAV4’s AWD system malfunction issues comes with AWD, and the big message will come on your dashboard display between the tachometer and speedometer. Check out the image below.  

You will see this message often when you have a malfunction on all-wheel drive systems. Your vehicle’s electronic system detects this problem and warns you.  

When this alert comes, it means your AWD system is not working and will be disabled electronically to prevent further harm to the system. When AWD is not working, the (2WD) system will activate automatically, which means only two front wheels of the car will get power and you will only move forward.  

You don’t have to do such things to trigger this system. But you need to do something to prevent all this from happening.  

Potential Causes  

Most drivers report that they see this warning all a sudden, and sometimes there is nothing to do with the AWD system.  

Here are some reasons why this warning can appear aside from AWD:  

• If your battery has completely died and you are using the jump-to-start method  
• If your gas cap has loosened up,  
• If the check engine light is on,  

If you have these reasons in your vehicle, make sure and don’t worry; then your AWD system is alright.  

If these reasons have not appeared, then consider checking with a professional and getting a full diagnosis.  

How to Resolve  

As I thoroughly researched, most owners report that if your car gas cap is loose, your check engine light warning will pop out, but it will not resolve the AWD not working warning.  

You can’t do anything. AWD malfunction warning isn’t a type of problem you can fix by yourself; you have to visit a Toyota dealership or some local mechanic, depending on your budget.  

If you want to know what the check light looks like, check out the below image. 

If you want to know more about checking engine lights, Read this Check the engine light on your Toyota RAV4 (here’s why).  

Repair Cost  

You are ready to repair your AWD malfunction and are fully concerned that this malfunction can damage your vehicle more, but estimate that the cost is a very difficult job because in an AWD system there are a lot of parts depending on which part is damaged.  

The repair cost of the RAV4 driveshaft is $699  to $794  for parts, and the labor cost of $95. If you replace the whole driveshaft, it will cost you $2,000 to $7,000, depending on which model you are driving and the location (source).  

A better option for you is to go to the professional Toyota mechanics; they will properly diagnose your car, let you know which part is damaged, and give you a proper quotation.  

Is It Safe to Drive?  

If the warning lights come on, a lot of questions pop into your mind, like, Is it safe to drive? How long can I drive? Is it better to stop the vehicle and get it checked by a mechanic?  

You can drive with AWD malfunctions; it’s safe, but you need to be very cautious. This warning indicates that your AWD system is not working and is disabled. It means only 2WD is working and only two front wheels are getting power, which is very dangerous in conditions like a silk road (rainy and snowy). Be very cautious if you are in that situation.  

It is safe to drive in 2WD when it is activated when you are driving on city streets. It cleans roads and dry pavement. And it is not safe to drive with a 2WD on Silk Roads.  

Conclusion  

The AWD system is very essential and important for your vehicle, but sometimes you will see a malfunction warning on your dashboard.  

If you see that warning, don’t panic; it’s safe to drive. With this, your AWD system will be disabled, and you will drive with a 2WD system, which means only two front wheels get power. 2WD is dangerous in some conditions, like rain and snow.  

The cost of repairs depends on which part is damaged, but if you replace the whole driveshaft, it will cost you between $2,000 and $7700.  

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)