FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/RAV4/Fourth Generation (2013-2018)/my Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018) has a check engine light and high mileage, what to do

my Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018) has a check engine light and high mileage, what to do

Toyota RAV4 Fourth Generation (2013-2018)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
505 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 check engine light in Toyota RAV4 2013-2018. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0420
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening the hood or working on hot components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Rough idle or engine misfires
  • •Unusual engine noises
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Poor acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to determine the specific trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the gas cap for tightness or damage, as a loose cap can trigger the check engine light.
  3. 3Check engine oil and coolant levels to ensure they are within normal ranges.
  4. 4Examine the air filter for clogs or dirt that could impact performance.
  5. 5Inspect the spark plugs and ignition coils for wear or damage.
  6. 6Test the fuel system pressure to ensure the fuel pump and injectors are functioning correctly.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.

2. Retrieve and Address Error Codes

  • Use the OBD-II scanner to retrieve the trouble codes.
  • Research the codes to understand the underlying issues (e.g., P0420 for catalytic converter efficiency).

3. Inspect and Replace Components

  • Air Filter:

    1. Remove the air filter cover.
    2. Take out the old air filter and install a new one.
    3. Reattach the cover securely.
  • Spark Plugs:

    1. Remove the ignition coil(s) by unscrewing them.
    2. Take out the old spark plugs using a spark plug socket.
    3. Install new spark plugs with a torque value of 13 lb-ft.
    4. Reinstall the ignition coil(s).

4. Fuel System Check

  • If fuel pressure is low:
    1. Disconnect the fuel pump relay.
    2. Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge.
    3. If low, replace the fuel pump, ensuring to relieve system pressure first.

5. Gas Cap Check

  • If the gas cap is damaged:
    1. Replace with a new gas cap that matches OEM specifications.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Screwdrivers

Parts Required

  • Air filter
  • Spark plugs
  • Ignition coils (if necessary)
  • Fuel pump (if necessary)
  • Gas cap (if damaged)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why are my Toyota RAV4 headlights flickering at night

    Learn how to diagnose and fix flickering headlights in your Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Headlights flickering intermittently
    • •Dimming of dashboard lights
    • +{count} more
  2. why is my Toyota RAV4 hesitating when I accelerate?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix acceleration hesitation in Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Hesitation or stuttering when pressing the accelerator
    • •Decreased power during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Toyota RAV4 have excessive tire wear?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix excessive tire wear on your Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Uneven tire wear across the tread
    • •Visible bulges or cracks on the tire sidewalls
    • +{count} more
  4. why are my Toyota RAV4 headlights flickering at night

    Learn how to diagnose and fix flickering headlights in your Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Headlights flickering intermittently
    • •Dimming or brightening of headlights while driving
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Toyota RAV4 have poor acceleration after a cold start

    Learn how to diagnose and fix poor acceleration after a cold start in Toyota RAV4. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructio...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough engine idle
    • +{count} more
  6. why is my Toyota RAV4 heater blowing cold air when on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a Toyota RAV4 heater blowing cold air. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •Heater only blows cold air regardless of temperature setting
    • •Fluctuating temperature from heater vents
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation