The modern dashboard can be confusing if a light goes on for an unknown reason. While many dashboard lights are similar across vehicles, there will likely be differences for some lights on your Toyota RAV4.
Whether you have the XA20, XA30 or XA40 model of this popular 4x4, there are some universal symbols and subtle differences to make yourself aware of. That’s why this month at Milner Off Road, we’ve got a guide on dashboard lights for Toyota RAV4 owners.
This content is meant as a rough guide to help you understand your RAV4 and any issues that it may be experiencing, but we always recommend checking your manual if you’re unsure or need more information.
Battery Charge
A red light, featuring the shape of a battery that includes a positive and negative symbol, means that there is an issue with your battery. It usually signals that the RAV4 is no longer generating its own electricity, instead using the battery power, requiring your attention.
Brake System
This symbol - an exclamation mark in a circle between two brackets - represents an issue with the brake system. It could appear in either yellow or red and indicates that either there is an issue with the brake system or that the handbrake is currently on.
Engine Issue
A pictorial representation of an engine, this light, appearing in yellow, is a warning that there is an engine issue that should be addressed. This could be that there is damage to the engine or a malfunction with the sensors in the RAV4 engine and will require further inspection to narrow down the issue.
Lane Departure Alert
If a yellow light, with a bird’s eye representation of your RAV4 going diagonally over a straight line appears, it means that the LDA (Lane Departure Alert) has been triggered. This means you have strayed from a lane and should correct course or that the sensor is out of alignment.
Tyre Pressure
If the pressure in one of the tyres on your RAV4 becomes too low, a yellow warning light will trigger in the shape of a squashed tyre with an exclamation mark in the middle. Check the tyre pressure and inflate as necessary; if the light remains, then this issue may require further investigation.
Oil Pressure
The oil level and pressure are important to the smooth running of your RAV4, so if you see a small red light in the shape of a canister, with a drip at the nozzle, it’s time to take a look. It may be that your oil level needs to be topped up, but it could also signal a deeper fault. This should not be confused with the yellow light in the shape of a spanner, which means your oil needs to be replaced.
Low Fuel
Taking a long drive? Then you may encounter the low fuel signal, which is a yellow, petrol forecourt fuel pump symbol. This should only trigger if you’ve forgotten to top up your RAV4’s tank and you’ve hit the fuel reserve level. If you feel like you filled up not long ago and haven’t really driven much, and this light comes on, then you might have leaky fuel lines.
Low Speed Four-Wheel Drive
The number four and uppercase letters ‘l’ and ‘o’ spell out the low speed four-wheel drive symbol. If this light comes on in yellow, it means the 4LO or L4 has been engaged. This is a useful setting for when you need low speed but high traction, so is great for off-roading.
Rear Differential Lock
This symbol, showing a small cross over a rear axle, means that the rear differential lock has been engaged. This helps to prevent the rear wheels from spinning and is useful for getting traction on loose surfaces. If you see this light on your dashboard, you may have accidentally engaged the feature and simply need to press the button to disengage.
Remember, depending on which model of the Toyota RAV4 you own, these lights and functionalities may differ. If you’re unsure what your dashboard light means, always consult your local dealership or a trusted mechanic. However, if you need quality parts and accessories to keep your RAV4 in top condition, we’ve got everything you need here at Milner Off Road. Simply search for your vehicle in our list of Toyota RAV4 models to find everything in our full range.
Order today and get worldwide delivery as well as rapid dispatch on your RAV4 items.