RAV4 Tire Maintenance
Proper tire maintenance is essential for your safety, vehicle performance, and fuel economy. This guide covers everything you need to know about maintaining your RAV4's tires.
Tire Specifications
| Trim Level | Tire Size | Recommended Pressure | Load Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| LE, XLE | 225/65R17 | 33 PSI (230 kPa) | 102H |
| XLE Premium, Limited | 235/55R19 | 33 PSI (230 kPa) | 101H |
| Adventure, TRD Off-Road | 235/60R18 | 33 PSI (230 kPa) | 103H |
Always refer to the tire pressure label on your vehicle's driver-side door jamb for exact specifications.
Tire Pressure Maintenance
How to Check Tire Pressure
- Check when tires are cold (before driving or 3+ hours after driving)
- Remove the valve cap from the tire
- Press the tire pressure gauge firmly onto the valve stem
- Read the measurement on the gauge
- Compare with the recommended pressure (33 PSI for most RAV4s)
- Add or release air as needed
- Replace the valve cap
- Repeat for all four tires and the spare
When to Check
- At least once a month
- Before long trips
- When the TPMS warning light comes on
- During seasonal temperature changes
- After hitting a pothole or curb
Tip: Tire pressure can drop 1-2 PSI for every 10°F decrease in temperature.
Tire Rotation
Rotation Pattern
For front-wheel drive RAV4 models, use the forward cross pattern:
- Front tires move straight back to rear positions
- Rear tires cross to opposite front positions
- Left rear → Right front
- Right rear → Left front
Rotation Schedule
- Every 5,000-7,500 miles or as recommended in your maintenance schedule
- At every other oil change
- When you notice uneven wear patterns
- Before seasonal tire changes
Benefit: Regular rotation can extend tire life by up to 20,000 miles.
Tire Inspection
Visual Inspection Checklist
What to Look For
- Cuts, cracks, or bulges in the sidewall
- Objects embedded in the tread (nails, screws, glass)
- Uneven wear patterns
- Excessive tread wear
- Damage to the valve stem
Tread Depth Test
Use the penny test:
- Insert a penny into the tread groove
- Lincoln's head should point down into the tread
- If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, replace the tire
- Minimum legal tread depth is 2/32"
Common Wear Patterns
Center Wear
Cause: Over-inflation
Solution: Reduce tire pressure to recommended level
Edge Wear
Cause: Under-inflation
Solution: Increase tire pressure to recommended level
One-Side Wear
Cause: Wheel misalignment
Solution: Professional wheel alignment
Tire Replacement
When to Replace
- Tread depth reaches 2/32" (legal minimum)
- Tread wear indicator bars are visible
- Sidewall damage or bulges
- Frequent air pressure loss
- Vibration or noise while driving
- Age: 6-10 years regardless of tread depth
Replacement Tips
- Replace tires in pairs (both front or both rear)
- Use the same tire size and type as original equipment
- Consider all-season vs. seasonal tires based on climate
- Have wheels balanced and aligned after installation
- Break in new tires gradually for the first 500 miles
Seasonal Considerations
Winter Preparation
- Check tire pressure more frequently (cold weather reduces pressure)
- Consider winter tires in areas with snow and ice
- Inspect tread depth - winter driving requires more tread
- Keep tire chains in the vehicle if required by local laws
- Check spare tire condition and pressure
Summer Preparation
- Check for heat damage from hot pavement
- Monitor pressure increases due to hot weather
- Inspect for UV damage to sidewalls
- Ensure adequate tread for wet weather traction
- Consider tire rotation before summer road trips
Safety Reminders
- Never ignore the TPMS warning light - check tire pressure immediately
- Replace tires before they reach the legal minimum tread depth
- Have wheel alignment checked if you notice uneven wear or pulling
- Keep a tire pressure gauge and portable air compressor in your vehicle
- Inspect tires monthly and before long trips
- If you have a flat tire, use the emergency kit or spare tire as directed in your owner's manual