why does my Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013-2018) jerk when I accelerate

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
• Disconnect the battery to avoid electrical shorts during the repair process.

2. Clean the Throttle Body

• Tools Required: Throttle body cleaner, soft brush, cloths
• Carefully remove the air intake duct from the throttle body.
• Spray throttle body cleaner into the throttle body while opening the throttle plate manually.
• Use a soft brush to remove any carbon deposits, then wipe clean with a cloth.
• Reassemble the intake duct and reconnect the battery.

3. Replace Spark Plugs

• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, gap gauge
• Remove the ignition coils by unscrewing the retaining bolts and disconnecting the electrical connectors.
• Remove the old spark plugs using a socket wrench.
• Check the gap on the new spark plugs using a gap gauge and adjust if necessary (usually 0.043 inches for most Toyota applications).
• Install the new spark plugs and torque to specifications (typically 13 lb-ft).
• Reinstall the ignition coils and reconnect all electrical connections.

4. Check and Replace Fuel Filter (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Wrench set, fuel line disconnect tool
• Relieve fuel system pressure by removing the fuel pump fuse and running the engine until it stalls.
• Disconnect the fuel lines using the fuel line disconnect tool.
• Remove the old fuel filter from the bracket and install the new one, ensuring the flow direction is correct.
• Reconnect the fuel lines and replace the fuel pump fuse.

5. Inspect Transmission Fluid

• Tools Required: Transmission funnel, clean container
• Check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick (if applicable) or by opening the fill plug.
• If the fluid is low, add the correct type of transmission fluid (usually Toyota WS fluid).