2016 Toyota RAV4 Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2016 Toyota RAV4 came standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission (U760E for FWD models and U760F for AWD models).

Available axle ratios

The 2016 Toyota RAV4 offered a single final drive ratio across all trims and drivetrains.

How to identify your axle ratio

For the 2016 Toyota RAV4, identifying your specific axle ratio is less critical as all models came with the same 3.815 final drive ratio. However, for future reference or if you're looking at other Toyota models, here’s how you would typically identify it:

Toyota VIN Decoder: The most reliable way to find detailed specifications, including the final drive ratio, for your specific vehicle is to use a Toyota VIN decoder online. Many sites offer this service for free, and it will provide a comprehensive breakdown of your vehicle’s factory build.

Door Jamb Sticker: While not a direct RPO code like some domestic manufacturers, the door jamb sticker (usually located on the driver's side B-pillar) on a Toyota will contain a wealth of information. Look for a section labeled "TRANSMISSION/AXLE". The axle code will usually be a three or four-character code. You would then cross-reference this code with a Toyota service manual or an online database to determine the numerical ratio.

Visually Inspecting the Axle (Less common for RAV4): For vehicles with a separate rear differential, sometimes a metal tag bolted to the differential cover will display the gear ratio. However, for a unibody crossover like the RAV4, this is less likely to be present or easily accessible.

Towing vs MPG impact

Axle ratios play a significant role in determining a vehicle's balance between towing capability and fuel efficiency. For the 2016 Toyota RAV4, since a single ratio was offered, these trade-offs were set by the factory.

• Numerically Lower Ratios (e.g., 3.08, 3.31): A numerically lower axle ratio means the engine turns fewer times for every rotation of the wheels. This generally results in better fuel economy on the highway, as the engine operates at lower RPMs. However, it also means less torque multiplication to the wheels, which can reduce towing capacity and make the vehicle feel less responsive during acceleration.

• Numerically Higher Ratios (e.g., 3.73, 4.10): A numerically higher axle ratio means the engine turns more times for every rotation of the wheels. This provides greater torque multiplication, leading to improved acceleration and increased towing capacity. The trade-off is typically lower fuel economy, especially at highway speeds, as the engine operates at higher RPMs.

The 3.815 ratio chosen for the 2016 RAV4 is a balanced ratio, aiming to provide adequate acceleration and moderate towing capacity (up to 1,500 lbs when properly equipped) without severely compromising fuel efficiency for a compact SUV.

Common issues

The 2016 Toyota RAV4 is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle. When it comes to the transmission and axle, common issues are not widespread, but some general points to consider for any vehicle's driveline include:

• Ring & Pinion Whine: This can manifest as a howling or whining noise that changes with vehicle speed, often indicative of worn or improperly set up differential gears. While not a common complaint for the RAV4, it can happen in any vehicle with high mileage or if fluid maintenance is neglected.

• Carrier Bearing Wear: The carrier bearings support the driveshaft. Wear here can lead to vibrations, especially at certain speeds. This is more relevant for AWD models with a driveshaft connecting the front transaxle to the rear differential.

• Limited-Slip Clutch Wear (If applicable): Some vehicles come with limited-slip differentials that use clutches. Over time, these clutches can wear out, leading to a loss of the limited-slip function. The RAV4's AWD system typically uses an electronically controlled coupling rather than a traditional mechanical limited-slip differential, so this is less of a concern for this specific model.

Regular transmission and differential fluid changes (if applicable for the rear differential on AWD models) are crucial for the longevity of these components.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius.