RAV4 Hybrid is a synonym for fuel economy and safe driving. So, if you find yourself with high fuel consumption, something is going on.
There are several causes for a higher consumption of fuel in a hybrid car.
This article will explain the top four common causes of increased fuel consumption for the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid model. As well as providing you with easy solutions to get back on track!
Advertising links are marked with *. We receive a small commission on sales, nothing changes for you.
Common Causes of Increased Fuel Consumption in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a great car, it basically drives itself and has very low fuel consumption. However, should you find yourself with increased consumption, it’s time to check it up.
First of all, let’s start with a simple checkup to figure out what’s your current fuel consumption.
Learn How to Calculate the RAV4 Fuel Consumption
Getting acquainted with the options of your magnificent RAV4 is key to understanding its potential issues. The panel behind your wheel has all the information you’ll need for this check.
First, make sure to fill up the tank completely.
Then, sit on the driver’s seat. In the panel behind the wheel, you’ll see a small odometer button slightly to the right. Press it down for 5 seconds or until the trip has been reset.
Do the same with the button you’ll find in the center which will reset the mpg calculations.
Now it’s time to drive! When the tank empties, you will have a truthful calculation of your fuel consumption.
Cause #1: Tire Pressure
The health status of your tires is key to proper fuel consumption.
If the tire pressure is too low, it can lead to up to 30% more fuel consumption. That said, it is also very important to keep an eye on tire pressure to avoid accidents.
Make sure to get the tire pressure checked regularly. You can do it yourself or have someone help you.
Cause #2: Defective Ancillaries
If any of the ancillaries is defective, this will directly affect the performance of the engine. Thus, affecting the fuel consumption.
Since this is very technical, it’s ideal to take your car to a mechanic or dealer. They will be able to check if there’s any piece interfering with the performance.
If you don’t know what ancillaries are, you may recognize them as: AC compressor, alternators, magnetic coupling, and so on. So, a certified technician is best to solve issues related to them.
Cause #3: Blocked Injectors
The injectors can get clogged, blocked, or dirty. This won’t be an issue at the very beginning of using your car. But after a few years of if it’s a second-hand car, this could be a plausible cause.
Clogging can be prevented using additives, however, they need to be brand approved.
Once the blockage is already there, the only solution is to take your RAV4 to a dealer or mechanic.
Cause #4: Mechanical Defects
Anything from break pistons to wheel bearings can put pressure on your car. Thus, causing additional fuel consumption.
You can usually spot these issues since there’s most likely a noise associated to their defect. If you start hearing weird noises when driving, consider taking your car to a dealer or mechanic.
How to Increase Fuel Mileage for a RAV4
Even after checking that the above is definitely not causing a higher fuel consumption in your car, there are always ways to make it even better.
If you want to increase fuel mileage for your RAV4 there are a few steps you can take.
City over Highway
If you can, use the car in the city over the highway. Obviously, this cannot always be achieved.
RAV4 Hybrid is optimized to use its electric engine over the petrol one when under 30 mph.
The fuel consumption between 30 and 70 mph is also pretty much optimized. But anything over 70 mph will overuse the fuel.
Keep the Cargo Low
If you have unnecessary cargo in the trunk, make sure to remove it before your next trip. Any additional weight will lead to higher consumption of your petrol.
Just imagine this, you will be spending over 2% more fuel per mile just with a hundred pounds of cargo. So, take a guess if you have several boxes of unnecessary things in the trunk.
Keep your Driving Style Stable
Try to always drive in a responsible way. Meaning you should avoid accelerating too fast or braking too hard. Try to keep it smooth and stable to regulate fuel consumption.
Keeping your car under control in all situations is a perfect way to save fuel.
Reduce the Trips
Unless absolutely necessary, try to reduce the trips. It may sound condescending, but it’s not. Sometimes, we tend to take the car even for very short distances, when it wouldn’t be necessary.
By preventing these short trips, you will be saving on fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s answer some of the most asked questions about your RAV4!
How Far Should I Go with a Full RAV4 Hybrid Tank?
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is an excellent model. With its 14,5-gallon tank, it will allow you to do quite a big stretch before needing to fill up the tank again.
With an average of 41 mpg in the city, and 38 mpg on the highway. It means you will be able to do an average of 550 to 595 miles with a full tank.
Keep these numbers in mind if you believe your RAV4 might be experiencing fuel consumption issues.
Do I Really Save Fuel in the RAV4 With Eco Mode?
Well, the answer is quite straight: yes!
The Eco Mode was designed specifically for fuel economy in city environments. You will be able to save a whopping 24% in your city drives when using Eco Mode.
Yet, make sure you drive consciously by preventing steep accelerations or sudden brakes.
Luna Meschiari is a full-blooded car nut who is well known to local garages, as each article is meticulously researched and peppered with the latest piece of information. Guess what car she’s driving right now? A RAV4 2021 Hybrid. But her heart also sleeps for pickups like the F-150. Get to know Luna better on the about us page.
Advertising links are marked with *. We receive a small commission on sales, nothing changes for you.