Tire and wheel sizes for Toyota RAV4 all generations

Since the presentation of the first generation, five generations of Toyota Rav 4 have been released:

• RAV4 (SXA10): 1995 – 2000;
• RAV4 (CA20W): 2000 – 2005;
• RAV4 (CA30W): 2005 – 2010;
• RAV4 (CA40W): 2010 – 2011;
• RAV4 (CA50W): 2011 – present.

Each modification differs from the previous one not only in exterior and interior, but also in technical characteristics, equipment, and layout.

Bolt pattern concept

The term describes the diameter of the circle on which the holes for the bolts or studs necessary to secure the wheel rim to the hub are located. The manufacturer has established tolerances for the dimensions of the channels in it, which are compensated by the conical surface on the fixing elements.

If the parameter is violated, the wheel cannot be installed on the car. Due to a change in alignment, the disk runs out when driving, causing vibrations and destroying wheel bearings and suspension elements, as well as worsening the handling of the crossover.

Features of parameters

In addition to the bolt pattern (denoted in catalogs as PCD, or Pitch Circle Diameter), when selecting components for wheel assembly, you must consider:

• the outer diameter of the rim, which determines the tire size;
• rim width;
• offset (the gap between the vertical plane of symmetry of the wheel and the line of the outer surface of the hub edge);
• the diameter of the hole DIA, which determines the centering of the disk when installed on the hub.

Wheel rim markings may contain additional information. For example, a number of manufacturers code the design of the side edges in letters of the Latin alphabet or indicate the presence of ring humps on the rim. The parameters do not affect the characteristics and are not taken into account when selecting a wheel rim.

The importance of matching tire bolt pattern parameters for a Toyota RAV4

If factory requirements are violated, wheel runout occurs, which leads to vehicle vibration when driving, impairs handling and quickly damages suspension parts. The tire experiences excessive loads, the tread wears out several times faster than under standard operating conditions. When using spare parts with an increased DIA value, it is permissible to use adapters made of plastic or aluminum, which compensate for the difference in size and prevent misalignment.

Wheels and tires that were installed on various bodies and configurations

Since the XA10 generation, introduced in 1994, crossovers have used steel or alloy wheels with a diameter of at least 16″. The manufacturer supplied vehicles with tires of different brands, designed for use on paved roads. There is a label on the B-pillar of the car that indicates the permissible wheel sizes and tire pressure depending on the load.

Information is also provided in the factory operating instructions included with each crossover.

First generation

The XA10, offered from 1994 to 2000, used 5 M12x1.5mm threaded studs evenly spaced on a 114.3mm diameter circle. Offset ET45, rim size 6.5Jx16 (parts with 7.0Jx16 are allowed), pilot hole diameter 60.1 mm. Dimensions did not depend on body type and engine power. The manufacturer prescribed the use of tires measuring 215/70 R16 with a working pressure of 1.8 atm; the use of other tires was not recommended.

Second generation

On XA20 generation machines, steel wheels with plastic caps or products cast from aluminum alloy were used (the design of the pattern was different from that used on the XA10). The factory supplied wheels with rim widths of 6.5Jx16 and 7.0Jx16 and offset ET45. The permissible tire size has increased to 235/60 R16 (pressure - from 1.8 to 2 atm.). The increase in width had a positive effect on the stability and stability of the trajectory when driving on suburban highways. The meaning of PCD and the method of attaching the wheels to the hubs have not changed compared to the first generation of the crossover.

Third generation

In 2005, production of the XA30 generation began. Basic cars came with steel wheels with a diameter of 16″, equipped with decorative caps with the manufacturer’s emblem. The rim width was 6.5Jx16 with an ET45 offset. The manufacturer installed tires with dimensions 215/70 R16, operating at an air pressure of up to 2.2 atm.

Some versions were equipped with aluminum wheels. There were products with rim widths of 6.5Jx17 and 7.0Jx17, designed for tires standard 225/65 R17 (working pressure - 2.2 atm.). The size of the rims and tires has not changed since restyling in 2008 and 2010.

The PCD parameter and offset remained at the same level (5x114.3 mm and ET45, respectively)

Fourth generation

The XA40 generation appeared in 2012 and was equipped with steel or alloy wheels with a rim width of 7.0Jx17. Tires of size 225/65 R17 were installed, providing a good level of comfort and dynamics. There are also cars equipped with wheels with a rim width of 7.5Jx18 and an offset of ET39, designed for tires measuring 235/55 R18.

After the RAV4 was modernized in 2015, the design of the wheels and decorative caps changed, but the geometric dimensions remained the same. The wheels were mounted on 5 studs located on a circle with a diameter of 114.3 mm. The manufacturer allows the use of 225/60 R18 tires. Installing tires with a tread width of more than 235 mm is impossible without upgrading the chassis.

Fifth generation

The basic equipment of the XA50 generation crossovers introduced in 2021 includes 7Jx17 aluminum wheels with an ET39 offset and 225/65 R17 tires. On improved modifications, there are wheels with a modified design and tires 225/60 R18 or 235/55 R19 (rim width - 7.0Jx18 and 7.5Jx19, respectively, offset - ET40). By reducing the profile height, the wheel diameter is maintained, which ensures stable ground clearance.

For the US market, a version with 8Jx20 ET40 wheels and 245/45 R20 tires is available. All wheels have a 5x114.3 mm drill.

The best non-studded winter tires for Toyota Rav 4

For large cities and southern regions in winter it is better to use friction tires.

On clean roads without snow and ice, their use is more justified.

Our rating includes 4 Velcro for Toyota RAV4.

Yokohama iceGUARD SUV G075

Description of the tire. The tires were originally designed for SUVs.

They are distinguished by a symmetrical, directional pattern. The running part is cut into V-shaped blocks.

The channels are zigzag to improve traction on wet asphalt. The central part is occupied by a wide rib.

Its role is to increase controllability on ice and dense snow. The number of lamellas has been increased. Thanks to this, the number of edges becomes very large, which improves traction on asphalt, ice, and ensures cross-country ability on snow.

The 3D shape of the lamellas is aimed at improving maneuverability. The tread pattern is designed for versatility and confident performance on any type of surface.

Tread rubber with microbubbles that dry the wet surface like a sponge. This prevents slipping.

Soft, but durable and damage-resistant sidewalls make the ride comfortable.

Pros of Yokohama iceGUARD SUV G075

1. Quiet.
2. High controllability.
3. Soft.
4. Stable on ice.
5. Good grip on the road.
6. High resistance to hydroplaning.
7. They are walking through deep snow.

Cons of Yokohama iceGUARD SUV G075

1. Not detected.

A high-quality model suitable for use on any road.

Toyo Observe GSi-6

Description of the tire. Specially designed for cars with powerful engines. They have a tread with a directional symmetrical pattern.

The shoulder zones are formed by double blocks. These checkers stabilize the behavior of tires at speed. The tread blocks have an increased number of edges, this is done specifically for better traction and maneuverability on snow.

Unusual sipes in the form of lightning are specially made for better tire grip during maneuvering. The spiral thread is responsible for enhanced braking.

The drainage system is well developed. Capacious grooves effectively squeeze water out of the contact zone, eliminating slippage.

Polymers and silica are added to the compound. As a result, tires maintain stable elasticity in warm weather and in cold weather.

Crushed nut shells make the tread rough. The sides are elastic and consistently soft.

Pros of Toyo Observe GSi-6

1. Quiet.
2. Soft.
3. Holds well on ice.
4. High grip on any surface.
5. Behavior is well predicted.
6. High cross-country ability in snow.

Cons of Toyo Observe GSi-6

1. Not the best balancing.

GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice 2

Description of the tire. A model with a directional, symmetrical pattern in the form of gull wings.

Tires are produced to suit the realities of North America, so you should not pay attention to the proud name “cryoadaptive”.

In fact, they are designed for use at air temperatures not lower than -25⁰С. For Americans, this is a critically severe frost.

In Russia, this means that the tires will be suitable for the European part of the country, where frosts are severe - 25⁰C are rare. In Siberia and the Far East it is better to choose a different model.

The tread blocks are arrow-shaped, cut with thin lamellas. The edges are long, located at an angle to the perpendicular to the wheel. This "tractor" pattern is good for increasing traction and grip. Large shoulder blocks improve cross-country ability in snow.

Wide channels drain water and slush well and clear snow. The sides are elastic and soft. However, they are too thin and require caution when parking.

Pros of GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice 2

1. Wear-resistant.
2. Not noisy.
3. High grip.
4. Good maneuverability in snow.
5. Soft.

Cons of GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice 2

1. Thin sides.

Standard disk sizes

Main characteristics of factory wheels for Toyota RAV4:

• diameter – from 16 to 20″ in increments of 1″;
• drilling – 5x114.3 mm;
• diameter of the central hole – 60.1 mm;
• departure - from ET39 to ET45.

Basic standard parts are made of steel sheet with a surface coating to protect against corrosion, are highly durable and are equipped with caps to improve appearance and reduce aerodynamic interference. Improved versions use discs made of aluminum alloy using high-pressure casting technology. Their surface is covered with a layer of varnish, which is corroded by reagents. Plastic covers are provided for the central hole. They weigh less, but are easily damaged by road bumps.

Toyota RAV4 uses surface-coated wheels.

Modifications

The first car was released back in 1994. Over 16 years on the market, the RAV 4 version has gone through 5 generations of production:

1. For the first generation, only 16-inch wheel options are required.
2. Since 2001, the second generation has been released, which requires the installation of 17-inch models. Also in 2005, new variations with 18-inch wheel units were added.
3. For 3rd and 4th generation the maximum diameter is 18 inches.
4. In 2021, the company released the fifth generation, which only requires wheels with a 19-inch radius.

For all generations, the following types of disks are used:

1. Stamped - the most popular version, which is installed in the original version of the crossover. They are easy to restore after deformation and practically do not crack. This formation is made from high-strength steel. There is also a drawback - the high weight of the structure. The appearance is also not impressive, but they are additionally equipped with caps.
2. Cast - made from an alloy of light metals by casting. Lighter than stamped versions. Cannot be restored after deformation or splitting. They look more attractive in appearance due to the production technology, which allows us to produce any shape to order. Thanks to thermally conductive materials, system cooling is increased. The cost is higher than the first type.
3. Forged - lightweight and durable. Made of light alloy metals. If it hits a hole, it will not crack, but the energy from the impact will transfer to the car’s suspension. Unfortunately, the choice of configuration is limited by production technology.

The standard version of the RAV 4 is equipped with stamped wheels of increased strength. However, depending on the driver’s goals, the discs are changed to other options.

Parameters of standard nuts

To secure the wheels on the RAV4, studs are used, mounted on splines in the hub housing. Regardless of generation, hexagonal blind nuts are made of carbon steel with a surface coating for corrosion protection. There is a conical guide skirt, the thread size of which is M12x1.5 mm. When installing wheels, the nuts should be screwed onto 2-3 turns of thread by hand, and then tightened to a torque of 100 N*m with an electric or pneumatic tool. When it is skewed, the nut bites, and when you try to unscrew it, the stud breaks.

When installing the disk on the hub, it is necessary to monitor the reliability of the fastening. If the nuts are loosely tightened, the wheel dangles within a few tenths of a millimeter, which leads to damage to the guide surfaces of the holes. It is impossible to restore the design; the car owner has to purchase a new disc or change the entire set.

What non-standard sizes can be supplied?

It is advisable not to install wheels with a diameter of more than 19 inches. In some cases, their profile thickness is relatively small; wheels with a diameter of 20 inches can be used. But this is rather the exception. Not all tires of this size will fit. Maximum profile width – 235 mm. Height – no more than 75. With large sizes, the wheel already begins to rub the fender liner.

Larger diameter wheels are installed to solve many different applications. First of all, in this way the vehicle owner tries to make the appearance of the car more stylish and attractive. But there are also practical benefits. By installing tires with high tread it is possible to slightly increase the vehicle's ground clearance. This is especially important for an SUV driving through rural areas and poor quality roads.

Another advantage of wide tires is improved traction. It helps:

• during icy conditions;
• on turns.

In the latter case, the car is controlled an order of magnitude better, and the likelihood of skidding is reduced to almost zero. However, a wide profile means higher gas costs. Oversized tires will cost an order of magnitude more. Moreover, the difference in price for items of the same class (even of the same brand), but with a difference in diameter of a couple of inches, will be approximately 2-3 thousand rubles. Therefore, before purchasing this type of tire, you need to weigh everything carefully.

Alternative wheel options for Toyota RAV4: minimum and maximum possible parameters

The minimum rim diameter for a stock RAV4 wheel is 16″. When increasing the parameter, tires with a reduced profile height should be used. At the same time, it is necessary to take into account the width of the tire tread, which will touch the elements of the body and suspension. Lowering the profile improves handling, but at the same time increases the risk of tire damage when hitting the edge of a hole. Theoretically, the RAV4 can install wheels with a diameter of up to 20″, having a PCD of 5x114.3 mm and a central hole of 60.1 mm.

The offset can be varied from 30 to 45 mm with a rim width of no more than 7.5″. With further expansion, the DIA parameter goes beyond the permissible limits. The use of adjusting washers located between the hub and the disk allows you to bring the DIA indicator to factory requirements. But an increase in the track increases the load on the wheel bearings and disrupts the distribution of forces in the suspension, which leads to accelerated wear of the vehicle's chassis.

When purchasing aluminum wheels, you should check the markings that are applied at the factory to the inside of the rim. Drilling new holes in accordance with PCD 5x114.3 mm is prohibited, since additional channels reduce the strength of the casting. Budget aluminum products made in China are not of high quality and crack under impact loads. You should purchase either original discs or products from major manufacturers that have passed a test cycle and received a certificate of conformity.

The best all-season tires Toyota Rav 4

All-season tires on crossovers can be used in large cities, as well as in the southern regions of the country.

In other places it is difficult to use them, but they allow you to shift the time for replacing tires, switching to winter ones after frosts.

There are 3 models presented in the review.

Bridgestone Dueler A/T 001

Description of the tire. High-quality tires with a symmetrical tread pattern from a Japanese brand.

They are positioned for movement in the city, but allow you to get out of the city, to places with off-road conditions, to overcome dirt roads, mud, and sand.

But still, these are tires for asphalt. They roll along it almost silently at any speed. 3 longitudinal channels are responsible for water drainage.

Even when driving through puddles, hydroplaning is almost impossible. The channels have zig-zag edges. Their purpose is to improve traction when moving on dirt or snowy surfaces.

The tread allows you to overcome minor dirt, but not for long. The problem is poor self-cleaning of the tread - the tire quickly begins to slip.

The protector is wear-resistant. The sides are elastic and absorb shock from bumps well.

Pros of Bridgestone Dueler A/T 001

1. Soft.
2. Quiet.
3. Wear-resistant.
4. Excellent grip on asphalt.
5. They go well on the primer.
6. Sustainable.
7. Good management.

Cons of Bridgestone Dueler A/T 001

1. Poor self-cleaning from dirt.

Tires for driving in the city, but allowing you to get out of it.

GOODYEAR Vector 4Seasons

Description of the tire. The tires are designed for use on good trails. The tread pattern is in the form of a fern, it is symmetrical and directional.

In the center of the tread there is a longitudinal channel, from which wide grooves diverge, dividing the surface into V-shaped gulls.

The grooves have the same pattern, running with the opposite slope from the center, but narrower. Blocks cut by multidirectional channels turn out to be of irregular diamond shape.

There are many of them, which increases the number of clutch edges. The extensive drainage system easily copes with even large volumes of water and slush. If the car flies into a puddle, the tires raise entire fountains of water.

The lamellas are so-called waffle lamellas. They close together, locking open. Considering that they are multi-directional, traction on ice or compacted snow improves. The sipes also work well on wet asphalt.

The protector is wear-resistant. The compound contains polymers that reduce rolling resistance, which contributes to fuel efficiency.

Pros of GOODYEAR Vector 4Seasons

1. Quiet.
2. Wear-resistant.
3. Goes well in shallow snow and mud.
4. Provide comfort.
5. The directional stability is decent.
6. They absorb small bumps well.
7. Durable.
8. They are not afraid of ruts.

Cons of GOODYEAR Vector 4Seasons

1. Not detected.

Continental AllSeasonContact

Description of the tire. A model with a tread with a symmetrical, directional pattern.

The tires were initially developed with an eye to the climate prevailing in the center and west of Europe.

Therefore, for Russia, the Continental AllSeasonContact can be driven up to temperatures of -5-10⁰С. However, in the Krasnodar or Stavropol Territories this is really enough for year-round use.

A lot of silica has been added to the compound with the expectation of maintaining optimal elasticity under any temperature fluctuations. This composition also reduces rolling resistance.

Additionally, fuel efficiency is helped by the presence of a rigid belt that protects the tire from deformation, an optimized sidewall design, and a rigid rim.

The tread pattern is developed, thanks to which the car has good cross-country ability in loose snow and shallow mud. The shoulder blocks are powerful and increase traction characteristics.

Pros of Continental AllSeasonContact

1. Sharp braking.
2. Quiet.
3. Soft rubber.
4. They are not afraid of falling into deep ruts.
5. Economical.
6. Passable on minor off-road conditions and snow.

Cons of Continental AllSeasonContact

1. The tread catches pebbles.