Some Toyota RAV4 owners report experiencing issues with a faulty fuel gauge, leading to inaccurate readings that may show the tank as full when it is not. This malfunction can result in the gauge displaying incorrect fuel levels, causing confusion about the actual amount of fuel in the tank. Additionally, some owners have noted that the fuel gauge may suddenly begin functioning correctly after a period of time, while others have found that it shows full even after driving significant distances. There are also reports of a manual reset procedure that can help recalibrate the fuel gauge and the Distance to Empty (DTE) calculator. Furthermore, inconsistencies in fuel economy readings have been observed, with fluctuations between accurate and inaccurate measurements that do not align with actual fuel consumption. Some users have experienced premature low fuel warnings, where the warning light activates despite there being a considerable amount of fuel remaining. These discrepancies can be concerning for drivers, making it essential to consult a qualified mechanic or Toyota customer service to address these issues for safe and accurate vehicle operation.

A loss of power on the freeway may due to an internally leaking fuel pulsation dampener. This commonly occurs on higher mileage vehicles.