To lift a Toyota RAV4 safely, park on level, hard ground, set the parking brake, chock the wheels that stay down, and place the jack only at the lifting points shown in your owner’s manual. Then support the vehicle on jack stands before you go under it. Jack points differ between model years and between gas and hybrid versions, so use the manual for yours. If you mean raising the ride height with a lift kit, see the links below. Related: Toyota RAV4 lift height and lift kits for the Toyota RAV4.
Understanding the RAV4’s Lifting Points
The manual shows the jack points for your model year, including the pinch-weld lift points on the sides and the front and rear points for a floor jack. Gas and hybrid models can differ, so do not rely on a general description. Using the wrong spot can bend the body or damage the underbody.
Choosing the Right Equipment for Lifting Your RAV4
- A floor jack rated above the vehicle’s weight
- A pair or more of jack stands, rated for the weight
- Wheel chocks
- The owner’s manual
A jack is for lifting only. Never go under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
How to Lift a Toyota RAV4 at the Front, Step by Step
- Park on level, hard ground, put the vehicle in Park, and set the parking brake.
- Chock the rear wheels.
- Place the jack at the front lift point shown in the manual.
- Raise the vehicle slowly until the tires are off the ground.
- Place jack stands at the support points in the manual and lower the vehicle onto them.
- Give the vehicle a gentle push to check that it is stable before working.
How to Lift the Rear of Your RAV4 Safely
Chock the front wheels, then follow the same process using the rear lift point and the rear support points in the manual.
Safety Measures Before Lifting Your RAV4
- Check the jack and stands for damage.
- Work on level, solid ground, not on soft ground or a slope.
- Keep people and pets clear.
- Do not start the engine with the vehicle lifted.
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Lifting Your RAV4
- Lifting at an unapproved point
- Relying on the jack alone
- Lifting on a slope or soft ground
- Skipping the wheel chocks
What to Check After Lifting Your RAV4
Lower the vehicle slowly, remove the stands and chocks, and then check the wheel nuts are tightened to the torque in the manual. Check the tire pressure and the underbody for damage.
Recalibration Considerations After Modifications
If you install a lift kit, the alignment, the headlight aim, the speedometer and the driver-assist sensors and cameras may need to be checked. Ask the installer, and check the effect on the warranty and the insurance.
When to Seek Professional Help for Vehicle Lifting?
See a shop if you are not sure of the jack points, if the ground is not level, or if you are fitting a lift kit.
Can You Lift a Toyota RAV4?
Yes, with aftermarket lift kits, but they can affect the ride, the alignment, the driver-assist systems and the warranty. Use a reputable installer.
How to Jack up a Toyota RAV4?
Use the lift points in your manual, jack slowly and support the vehicle on jack stands before working under it.
What Are the Drawbacks of Lifting a RAV4?
A lifted RAV4 can handle differently, put more wear on suspension and drivetrain parts, change fuel economy and driver-assist calibration, and raise warranty questions.
What Year of RAV4 to Stay Away From?
There is no single answer. Check the recalls and owner complaints for the specific year at nhtsa.gov, and get a pre-purchase inspection.
Conclusion
To lift a Toyota RAV4 safely, use the manual’s lift points and jack stands, work on level ground and never rely on the jack alone.
