2006–2009 Toyota RAV4: Sudden oil leak from the V6 VVT-i oil line
Likely causes, ranked
- Rubber section of the VVT-i oil supply line degrading (replaced with all-metal line)$0–$0Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A sudden oil leak at the front of the engine, an oil pressure light, or smoke from oil hitting the exhaust.
Likely causes
- VVT-i oil line. The rubber part of the line can crack and leak quickly. Toyota's campaign replaced it with a metal line, and Toyota Nation owners discuss the related oil cooler pipe.
DIY or shop?
Shop or DIY-capable. Use the updated all-metal line.
Useful steps
- Check whether your car already has the metal line.
- Shut the engine off right away if the oil pressure light comes on.
Vehicle focus: 2006–2009 Toyota RAV4.
Safety / mechanic note
A burst line can empty the oil in minutes. Stop driving if the oil light comes on. Verify with a mechanic.
Recalls & service bulletins
Technical service bulletins
- LSC 90K Toyota limited service campaign replacing the 2GR-FE VVT-i rubber oil hose on certain 2007–2010 Camry, 2006–2009 RAV4 and 2008 Highlander (extension ended Dec 31, 2021). Details
NHTSA complaints: 65 keyword-matched complaints (of 2,607 unique complaints filed under NHTSA model names RAV4, 2006–2009; NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.