my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) has an unusual vibration when accelerating

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Tire Inspection and Replacement

• Sub-steps:
  1. Remove the lug nuts using a socket set and take off the affected tires.
  2. Inspect tires for uneven wear, bulges, or foreign objects.
  3. If tires are damaged or unevenly worn, replace them with new tires of the specified size (e.g., 225/65R17).
  4. Reinstall tires and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification (typically 76 lb-ft).

3. Suspension and Alignment Check

• Sub-steps:
  1. Lift the vehicle using a hydraulic jack and secure it with jack stands.
  2. Visually inspect suspension components, including control arms and bushings, for wear.
  3. If any components are worn, replace them with OEM parts.
  4. Use an alignment machine to perform a four-wheel alignment according to manufacturer specifications.

4. Drivetrain Inspection

• Sub-steps:
  1. Inspect the driveshaft for any signs of damage or imbalance.
  2. Check CV joints for any play or torn boots; replace if necessary.
  3. Reinstall any components removed for inspection and torque to specifications.

5. Final Reassembly

• Sub-steps:
  1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Lower the vehicle and perform a final inspection of all components.
  3. Start the engine and perform a test drive to ensure the vibration has been resolved.