2.4 VVT-i (2AZ-FE)
2006–2013 · petrol · 2362cc · 170hp
Engine codes: 2AZ-FE
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Toyota RAV4 2.4 VVT-i (2AZ-FE). Check this before you buy used.
The 2.4 (2AZ-FE) is the RAV4 engine to check carefully: it's prone to head-gasket failure (coolant leak from the rear of the head, typically 110,000–180,000 miles), traced to an over-torqued head bolt in manufacturing — Toyota issued TSB-0015-11. The 2AZ also has a known oil-consumption tendency. A car with the gasket already done (or no symptoms + good coolant) is fine; an original high-miler is on borrowed time.
Known Issues
Coolant leaks from the rear of the head gasket (~110k–180k miles), caused by an over-torqued head bolt at the factory (TSB-0015-11). Overheating / white smoke / 'milkshake' oil are warnings.
Fix / Workaround: Check coolant/oil for mixing; ask if head gasket was replaced; watch temp gauge.
Repair cost: €900–€2200
Typically appears after: 175,000 km
2AZ-FE has a known oil-consumption tendency.
Fix / Workaround: Check oil regularly; keep topped.
Repair cost: €0–€1500
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 175,000 km: Head gasket failure window (~110k–180k miles).
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Check coolant/oil for mixing (head gasket)
- ☐Watch temp gauge on test drive
- ☐Ask if head gasket was done
- ☐Check oil consumption
Frequently asked questions
Is the Toyota RAV4 2.4 VVT-i (2AZ-FE) reliable?
History-Dependent — The 2.4 (2AZ-FE) is the RAV4 engine to check carefully: it's prone to head-gasket failure (coolant leak from the rear of the head, typically 110,000–180,000 miles), traced to an over-torqued head bolt in manufacturing — Toyota issued TSB-0015-11. The 2AZ also has a known oil-consumption tendency. A car with the gasket already done (or no symptoms + good coolant) is fine; an original high-miler is on borrowed time.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Toyota RAV4 2.4 VVT-i (2AZ-FE)?
The most commonly reported problems: Head gasket failure, Oil consumption.
Is a used Toyota RAV4 2.4 VVT-i (2AZ-FE) worth buying?
The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.