Tires

2003 Toyota RAV4 Tires, Repair & Service


2003 Toyota RAV4 Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

2003 Toyota RAV4 Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 2003 Toyota RAV4 tire size? Use the following chart to find information on tire size, speed rating, and inflation.

Trim Level Speed Rating Inflation in PSI F/R Tire Size
2003 Toyota RAV4 Base* S 29 PSI/29 PSI 215/70R16
2003 Toyota RAV4 Base* S 29 PSI/29 PSI 215/70R16
2003 Toyota RAV4 Base* H 29 PSI/29 PSI 235/60R16
2003 Toyota RAV4 Base* H 29 PSI/29 PSI 235/60R16
2003 Toyota RAV4 Base* S 44 PSI/44 PSI 195/80R16
2003 Toyota RAV4 Base* S 44 PSI/44 PSI 195/80R16

2003 Toyota RAV4 Base*

215/70R16

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Toyota RAV4 Base*

215/70R16

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Toyota RAV4 Base*

235/60R16

Speed Rating: H

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Toyota RAV4 Base*

235/60R16

Speed Rating: H

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

2003 Toyota RAV4 Base*

195/80R16

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 44 PSI/44 PSI

2003 Toyota RAV4 Base*

195/80R16

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 44 PSI/44 PSI

* Note: these models have different tire sizes depending on vehicle options.

Recommended Tires for Your 2003 Toyota RAV4

What tires are best for a 2003 Toyota RAV4? Check out the following tire brands and types.

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
Blizzak DM-V2

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
Bridgestone Ecopia H/L 422 Plus
Ecopia H/L 422 Plus

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Bridgestone WEATHERPEAK
WEATHERPEAK

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Firestone ALL SEASON
ALL SEASON

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Firestone Destination LE3
Destination LE3

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Firestone WEATHERGRIP
WEATHERGRIP

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
SUREDRIVE ALL-Season
ALL-Season

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
SUREDRIVE Touring A/S
Touring A/S

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY A/T III
OPEN COUNTRY A/T III

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Toyo Extensa A/S II
Extensa A/S II

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires

About 2003 Toyota RAV4 Tires

Apart from finding the right tire size, you also want to consider a handful of other factors when buying new Toyota RAV4 tires like how and where you drive, and how much you want to spend. When thinking about your driving conditions, consider where you live (mountains vs. city vs. countryside) and the kind of weather can catch you off-guard. (Watch out Tornado Alley!) It's not uncommon for drivers in states that experience all four seasons to buy more than one set of tires. one for winter and one for summer. Other drivers prefer the convenience of all-season tires. They make one trip to the tire shop and they're pretty much ready for rain, light snow, or sun!

Next, consider your driving style. If you're a big off-roading fan who forges paths where others can't, you have very different needs than a long-distance commuter who sticks to the highway. Browse Toyota RAV4 tires online or come to your nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you.

Toyota RAV4 Installation and More

We sell tires, but we also service them and care for all the around-the-wheel components. We're a tire store that also offers professional tire installation, maintenance, and rotation, along with complete auto care. Shop 2003 Toyota RAV4 tires online and schedule an installation appointment.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Tire Q&A

  • Why does Toyota tire inflation matter? A small decrease in tire pressure can have a big impact on your driving. Maintaining proper tire pressure can help improve braking time, increase fuel economy, and boost tire lifespan.
  • What do the tire sidewall numbers mean for my Toyota RAV4? Your tire sidewall numbers tell you the recommended load carrying capacity, speed rating, treadwear, traction, and tire size. Talk to a tire technician to learn how to read Toyota tire numbers.
  • Is there an easy way to check Toyota tire tread depth? Stay on top of your tire tread depth to help avoid a dangerous drive. You can check tread depth with a penny. Hold the penny so that Abraham Lincoln is facing you, then place your penny into a tread groove upside down. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Toyota RAV4 tires. Grab a penny. Hold the so that Abe Lincon's head is facing you and his hair is pointing toward the ground. Then, place the penny into a tread groove. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Toyota RAV4 tires.

About 2003 Toyota RAV4 Repairs

No driver looks forward to car repairs. But at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we strive to give you the excellent repair experience you deserve. Bring your 2003 Toyota RAV4 in for repair services and our skilled repair technicians will get your RAV4 back on the road. Before we begin any repair work, we’ll diagnose any issues and answer your questions about potential repair options. We value your trust, so we recommend only the repairs we think are necessary for your safety on the road.

How Much Are Toyota RAV4 Repairs?

The cost to repair your 2003 Toyota RAV4 depends on what kind of repair you need, the cost of any replacement parts, how much labor the repair will take, and where you live. They're updated regularly!

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 2003 Toyota RAV4, like

2003 Toyota RAV4 Auto Repair Questions

  • Can scheduled maintenance help me avoid repairs? The cheapest 2003 Toyota RAV4 repair is the one that isn’t necessary in the first place! Staying up-to-date with your car’s scheduled maintenance services is a great way to keep future repair costs low.
  • What's wrong if something feels 'off' in my Toyota? You’re in your car, day in and day out. So, it’s only expected that you know your car better than anyone else! If you notice mysterious smells, strange engine noises, or other out-of-the-ordinary symptoms while driving, trust your instincts and stop into Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check. Catching a potential issue early could help prevent Toyota RAV4 repairs.
  • Why do you recommend certain repairs for my Toyota? We won’t recommend a service or repair for your 2003 Toyota RAV4 unless we think it’s necessary to keep you safe. Want to know more about a specific recommended repair? Ask! We’re here to help.

Get Your 2003 Toyota RAV4 Brakes Fixed

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Toyota  RAV4. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. If you notice your brakes are squeaking or not working well, don’t wait! Safe driving and responsive brakes go hand in hand. Plus, waiting can lead to more expensive parts wearing out and requiring replacement. Get your 2003 Toyota RAV4 brakes fixed at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Our brake repair services include brake pad/shoe removal and replacement, brake rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange, and brake caliper and wheel cylinder installation.

Toyota RAV4 Brakes Questions

  • What is causing my RAV4 to shake when I brake? If your RAV4 shakes when you brake, you could be dealing with warped rotors, faulty brake calipers, worn brake pads or rotors, or loose or worn suspension parts. Schedule a free brake inspection at Firestone Complete Auto Care for help diagnosing your brake issue.
  • How long can I expect my RAV4 brake pads to last? Brake pads typically last about 30,000 to 40,000 miles. However, driving conditions can affect this range. Sticking to highway driving and braking smoothly can help extend the life of your brake pads, while towing heavy loads or frequently riding your brakes can shorten it.
  • Can brake fluid leak when my RAV4 is off? Because your RAV4 brake system is a closed hydraulic system, it should not leak brake fluid. However, if components in your brake system have worn out or been damaged, it might cause brake fluid to leak.

Repairing Your Toyota RAV4 Drivetrain

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to go to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 2003 Toyota RAV4 drivetrain components Your RAV4 might need driveshaft repair if you notice heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, resistance when turning, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

Questions About 2003 Toyota RAV4

  • How do I know if my Toyota drivetrain is damaged? Hear noises toward the back of your Toyota RAV4? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.
  • What triggers the malfunction indicator light (MIL) in a RAV4? Engine problems, transmission problems, faulty sensors, electrical issues, misfire issues, and connector problems could all cause your RAV4’s malfunction warning light, or better known as the check engine light, to illuminate.
  • Is a drivetrain malfunction in my RAV4 serious? A drivetrain malfunction in your RAV4 should never be taken lightly. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can put you in danger and lead to further vehicle damage, so it's essential to have a qualified mechanic assess and repair the problem as soon as possible.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Alignment Services

Alignment services involve precise adjustments to your Toyota RAV4’s suspension system, which connects the wheels with the rest of the vehicle. In an alignment service, your tire angles are adjusted according to measurements recommended by Toyota. Why? So that your tires can make contact with the road at the best possible angle. When you bring in your 2003 Toyota RAV4, we’ll perform an alignment check first. Then, we’ll adjust the angles as needed until they match recommended measurements from Toyota.

Answers to Toyota RAV4 Alignment Questions

  • What can knock my Toyota RAV4 out of alignment? Hitting a pothole or curb can alter your wheel alignment. So can general wear and tear over time.
  • How often does your RAV4 need a wheel alignment? Generally, it’s wise to have your alignment looked at around every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever happens first. You should check your RAV4 owner’s manual to verify Toyota’s suggested interval.
  • Do you need to get your RAV4 wheels aligned when you get new tires?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your RAV4, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

Get Your Toyota RAV4 Tire Repaired

If your 2003 Toyota RAV4 is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. To start, we’ll consider the location of tire damage, the type of issue, the size and scope of the damage, and the amount of wear on your tires.

If a repair on your 2003 Toyota RAV4 tire is feasible and safe, we'll follow three basic steps to repair it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

Frequently Asked Toyota RAV4 Tire Repair Questions

  • How soon should I have my flat tire repaired? A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your RAV4 as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!
  • Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my Toyota's flat tire? A temporary sealant may be able to help you get to a repair location safely. But temporary or emergency sealants could possibly damage TPMS sensors, and in some cases may even void the warranty on your Bridgestone or Firestone tires. If your tire needs extensive repair, sealant can add time and labor costs to the process.
  • Why do the tires on my RAV4 keep losing air? Tire punctures, damaged wheels, and leaking valve stems are possible reasons for your RAV4 tires continuously losing air.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Maintenance Information

It can be overwhelming, but fortunately, there’s a resource that takes the guesswork out of routine RAV4 maintenance. Rely on the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been created just for your 2003 Toyota RAV4! The recommended maintenance schedule is put together by Toyota, your vehicle manufacturer. Driving conditions, climate variations, and other variables can affect which scheduled maintenance services you’ll need; in most cases, though, recommended maintenance will consist of services like fluid exchanges, filter changes, new brake pads, and tire rotations. Keeping up with routine service appointments is a great way to keep your RAV4 running for longer, decrease your risk of dangerous malfunctions on the road, and maybe even save you the headache of dealing with common 2003 Toyota RAV4 problems in the future.

Overview of Essential Toyota RAV4 Maintenance Needs

Head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care in your 2003 Toyota RAV4 for factory-recommended routine maintenance and a skilled technician will start the appointment with a Courtesy Check. The Courtesy Check helps us see what we’re working with under the hood, and allows us to alert you to any potential problems before they worsen. Every Courtesy Check will include a visual inspection of your RAV4. We’ll check your head and tail lights, fluid levels, filters, tires (and their alignment!), and windshield wiper blades. We’ll also perform a free battery check to determine your battery’s charge level.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is the place to go for 2003 Toyota RAV4 maintenance. We can help you keep your vehicle (and your life!) running smoothly. Many of our locations have weekend and evening hours for your convenience.

Questions About 2003 Toyota RAV4 Maintenance

  • What should I do after hitting a pothole in my Toyota RAV4? Watch out for pothole damage. If your 2003 RAV4 is pulling to one side or the other, your tires or suspension system could be calling out for help.
  • Why are my Toyota dashboard lights on?  It's better to get them addressed as soon as possible. An illuminated dashboard light means something in your vehicle isn't functioning like it should. Letting problems linger can mean bad news for your Toyota RAV4, so be sure to take your car in for service as soon as you notice an illuminated dashboard light.

Battery Size & Replacement for 2003 Toyota RAV4

Not sure what battery to get for your Toyota RAV4?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
35-1 L4/2.0L Replacement 24 months Performance months 500
35-1 L4/2.0L Replacement 24 months Performance months 500
35-2 L4/2.0L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
35-2 L4/2.0L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
35-AGM L4/2.0L Replacement 36 months Performance months 650
35-AGM L4/2.0L Replacement 36 months Performance months 650

2003 Toyota RAV4 Batteries

The average car battery lasts three to five years. Check your battery regularly and replace it as needed so it doesn’t leave you and your Toyota RAV4 stranded. Look out for symptoms of a faulty car battery. A lagging starter, an illuminated check engine light or battery signal, swollen battery case, corrosion-covered posts, or dim headlights can all be signs that your battery is on its last leg.

Or, you can get a complimentary battery check at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care. Visit us for a complimentary battery check and, if necessary, a battery replacement to help keep your 2003 Toyota RAV4 running! Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are well-acquainted with Toyota’s service specs for RAV4 battery cold cranking amps and reserve capacity. Get help identifying the type and size of battery that fits your car perfectly, and schedule a fast car battery replacement at your earliest convenience.

Commonly Asked Toyota RAV4 Battery Questions

  • Why won’t my Toyota RAV4 battery hold a charge?  A battery that won't hold a charge is almost as good as dead. The battery might be old. Or, you may have a habit of leaving your car doors open and the lights on overnight. Stop by for a free battery test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to learn more about the state of your battery.
  • How long can I expect my car battery to last?  Car battery lifespan varies depending on a few factors, including driving conditions, accessories, how well it’s maintained, and the type of battery. On average, a car battery lasts about three to five years.
  • What is the white, crusty substance accumulating on my RAV4’s battery post?  The white, flaky stuff that can build up around your RAV4’s battery terminals is known as corrosion. Acid leaking from your vehicle’s battery post can have a chemical reaction with the air, leading to an accumulation of the white, powdery substance over time. Corrosion can affect the flow of electricity between your battery and the electrical system in your RAV4, possibly causing issues with electrical performance and starting. If left unaddressed for long enough, it may even cause your battery to prematurely fail.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Oil Changes


2003 Toyota RAV4 Suspension Service & Repair

During the first few years you had your 2003 Toyota RAV4, you probably enjoyed a smooth and steady ride. Now, however, things are starting to feel a little rough. Maybe your RAV4 jolts, leans to one side, or makes noise whenever you turn or drive over a speed bump. As soon as you notice that something’s “off” with your 2003 Toyota RAV4, bring it in for suspension and steering service. We’ll get to the root of the issue and, if your car needs steering and suspension repairs, we’ll explain what your car needs and how much it’ll cost to get it done. We won't begin any work without your permission.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Steering & Suspension Questions

  • Why is my Toyota RAV4 bouncing so much?  If your shocks or struts are in bad shape, they can’t dampen road bumps like they should. This can cause your RAV4 to bounce more than usual.
  • What can cause the front end of my RAV4 to dip forward when I apply the brakes?  When you brake, the forward momentum combined with your vehicle's weight sends a lot of force to the vehicle's front end. A bad suspension can cause all that weight and force to push the front end downward.
  • Does treadwear and tire pressure impact my RAV4's steering and suspension?  Maintaining your tires can help reduce strain on the suspension, nd also let you know when it's time to replace your tires. A faltering steering and suspension system could lead to uneven tire wear.

Convenient & Local 2003 Toyota RAV4 A/C Service

Our trained technicians will do what they can to solve your 2003 Toyota RAV4 A/C problems. In this A/C performance inspection, we’ll check out the current condition of your 2003 Toyota RAV4 A/C system to see if repair work is required. This check will include an examination of system pressure, a visual inspection, and a leak test.

Let's say we repair your 2003 Toyota RAV4 A/C system. We will also perform an A/C evacuation and recharge. To do this, one of our technicians will remove the refrigerant in your A/C system (if there is even any left to remove). Next, they will evacuate the system according to Toyota's recommendations. Finally, we’ll recharge the A/C system with new refrigerant.

Questions About 2003 Toyota RAV4 A/C Systems

  • Why do I get hot air from my RAV4 A/C? Maybe your A/C starts cool but then gets warm. Or maybe it never gets cold in the first place. Either way, your A/C troubles could be traced back to a clogged expansion valve, faulty compressor clutch, blown fuse, or leak.
  • What can cause an A/C system leak?  A/C system leaks are often due to a combination of age and moisture. Rubber seals and gaskets naturally degrade over time, allowing refrigerant to exit and moisture to enter your RAV4's A/C system.
  • What is causing my RAV4’s A/C to only work when the car is in motion? There could be issues with one or more components in the air conditioning or electrical system. Your RAV4 may have a faulty cooling fan or low refrigerant.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Transmission Service & Repairs

The transmission delivers power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive on your terms. Since the transmission has to translate the precise amount of power for your desired amount of speed, a small transmission issue can put a big dent in your RAV4’s performance. 2003 Toyota RAV4 transmission issues could include shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, the car shaking on the road, or a burning smell or whistling sounds coming from under the hood. If you don’t pay attention to Toyota RAV4 transmission trouble you could see your fuel economy decrease or find that you can't drive your RAV4 at all. Our expert techs are familiar with 2003 RAV4 services and perform them according to Toyota-recommended specifications. If you think there’s something wrong with your RAV4’s transmission, schedule an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to help diagnose, treat, and prevent major transmission issues.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Transmission Questions & Answers

  • When should I have my RAV4's transmission fluid checked or exchanged?  Caring for your Toyota RAV4’s transmission fluid is a great way to help it perform. About every 30,000 to 60,000 miles is a good timeframe for having your transmission fluid inspected and perhaps changed. Service intervals can vary depending on how you use your Toyota, so check with your technician first. Luckily, leaks and low fluid levels are easy to spot and inexpensive to fix.
  • Can Toyota RAV4 transmission fluid leak?  Over time, transmission fluid can leak from your Toyota RAV4, potentially causing transmission problems. A transmission fluid leak may be caused by a damaged transmission pan, faulty transmission cooler lines, worn-out seals, a cracked transmission housing, or an overfilled transmission.
  • Should I avoid driving my Toyota RAV4 if there is a transmission fluid leak?  Driving with a transmission fluid leak is not recommended. Transmission fluid is essential to the proper operation of the transmission system, and a leak can cause serious problems, including reduced performance, overheating, and potentially transmission failure.

Get a 2003 Toyota RAV4 Vehicle Inspection

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we perform a multi-point Courtesy Check during any vehicle service. The technician will begin by testing your Toyota RAV4's battery to determine how much charge remains. We’ll follow the battery inspection with a visual check of your Toyota RAV4’s lights, windshield wipers, filters, alignment, tires, hoses, belts and fluid levels.

We perform a Courtesy Check any time you bring your car to a local Firestone Complete Auto Care for service, but we can also dig deeper and perform a Complete Vehicle Inspection on your 2003 Toyota RAV4 if you prefer. In addition to a visual check of everything that's included in a Courtesy Check, a Complete Vehicle Inspection also includes a hands-on examination of your steering, suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. The goal of this type of inspection is to unearth significant issues that might need immediate attention in order to prevent further damage.

In some cities or states, you may be able to complete your vehicle’s safety tests or state inspection at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care. Specific requirements for these types of inspections vary by state.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Vehicle Inspection Q and A

  • How do I know if my Toyota RAV4 needs a check-up? If you’ve noticed something that doesn’t feel quite right in your car lately, a Courtesy Check could give you peace of mind. We can help you get to the bottom of strange engine noises, a jerky steering wheel, or an engine that's hard to start.
  • Can you fix my 2003 Toyota RAV4 so it will pass a state inspection test? There's a good chance we can. Stop by for a full system inspection and we'll get to the root of the issue.
  • What's the ideal timing for a full vehicle inspection on my Toyota RAV4?  You should bring your Toyota RAV4 in for a full vehicle inspection if something weird happens and you can’t find the problem. A new dashboard light might come on, you may hear strange sounds under the hood, or your steering might feel off. A complete inspection is also a great idea before a road trip for added peace of mind.

2003 Toyota RAV4 Radiator Repair & Service

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 2003 Toyota RAV4 is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. In fact, Toyota recommends replacing coolant/antifreeze at specific intervals, but it’s a good idea to keep your eyes open for any indication that your radiator is failing. You might be driving around (or about to be stranded) with a failing radiator if you notice leaking coolant, overheating, or an illuminated low coolant dashboard light.

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start by performing a thorough inspection of your Toyota RAV4 cooling system. We then do a machine-powered radiator exchange, replenish flushed chemicals, sealants, and lubricants, and then pressure check for leaks. From the heater core to the radiator cap, we’ll take excellent care of your 2003 Toyota RAV4 at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Questions About Toyota RAV4 Radiators

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Toyota?  Your engine might be about to overheat. If your low coolant light is on, pull over in a safe area and wait for your engine temperature to go down. Once it’s safe to do so, bring your car to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care to have the coolant system inspected.
  • What is causing my RAV4 to overheat?  One of the main reasons your Toyota RAV4 engine might overheat is because you don’t have enough coolant. Other causes include a clogged radiator, a damaged cooling fan, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty water pump.
  • What can cause a RAV4 radiator to make boiling or rumbling sounds? There could be air pockets in your RAV4’s cooling system. You might also have a clogged radiator or faulty radiator cap (this last one is an easy fix!).