2019 Toyota RAV4 Spark Plug Replacement — 2.5L Dynamic Force (Hybrid 16-Plug Note)

Here's how I replaced the spark plugs on my 2019 Toyota RAV4. The 2019 RAV4 uses Toyota's all-new 2.5L Dynamic Force A25A-FKS engine — a significant redesign from the 2AR-FE it replaced. This engine uses NGK ILFR6B-11 iridium plugs, torques to 14 ft-lbs (19 Nm), and Toyota's replacement interval is 120,000 miles under normal conditions. Dealer quote for this service: $280–$350. My cost: about $80 in plugs.

The A25A-FKS vs. Previous RAV4 Engines

The 2019 RAV4 was a complete redesign — new TNGA-K platform, new engine, new everything. The 2.5L Dynamic Force engine features:

• DOHC with dual VVT-iW (intake side gets the aggressive VVT-iW, exhaust side gets standard VVT-i)
• Port + direct injection (D-4ST)
• Atkinson cycle capable — shared engine architecture with the hybrid system
• High compression — 14.0:1 ratio on the gas-only model

The port injection + direct injection combo reduces carbon buildup on intake valves compared to pure direct-injection engines. This is good for long-term engine health and means you won't need the valve cleaning procedures required on some other direct-injection engines.

Hybrid Note — 16 Spark Plugs

If you have the 2019 RAV4 Hybrid (AWD-i), your vehicle uses the A25A-FXS variant of the Dynamic Force engine. This engine operates exclusively in Atkinson cycle mode and the hybrid system never allows true cold starts — the engine warms up quickly via the MG1 motor.

The RAV4 Hybrid has the same 4 plugs as the gas model. The "16 plugs" figure sometimes referenced online applies to a different Toyota hybrid architecture (like the Prius with its special plug access) — the 2019 RAV4 Hybrid uses 4 plugs, same spec (NGK ILFR6B-11), same torque (14 ft-lbs), same interval (120,000 miles or 150,000 km). Do not let a dealer charge you for 8 or 16 plugs on this vehicle.

Tools and Parts

• 4 × NGK ILFR6B-11 iridium spark plugs (OEM spec — do not gap, pre-gapped from factory at 0.043")
• 14mm spark plug socket with rubber insert (deep socket — 3/8" drive)
• Extension bars (3" and 6" recommended)
• Torque wrench (in-lb or ft-lb capable of 14 ft-lbs)
• Dielectric grease (small amount for boot interior — optional but recommended)
• Compressed air or vacuum to clean around plugs before removal
• Anti-seize — NOT recommended on NGK iridium plugs (the torque spec assumes dry threads)

Spec Sheet

Item	Spec
Engine	2.5L A25A-FKS (gas) / A25A-FXS (hybrid)
Spark plug	NGK ILFR6B-11
Plug gap (pre-set)	0.043" — do not adjust
Torque	14 ft-lbs (19 Nm)
Service interval	120,000 miles
Number of plugs	4 (both gas and hybrid)

Accessing the Plugs on the 2019 RAV4

The A25A-FKS is a transversely mounted four-cylinder with all four plugs accessible from the top of the engine bay. The engine cover is a plastic trim piece held by push-clips — remove it first.

1. Open the hood. The engine cover (marked "2.5L Dynamic Force" or similar) sits on top of the intake manifold. Press down on the clips at each corner and lift straight up. Set aside.

2. The four ignition coils are now visible — one on each plug, center of the head. Each coil is held by a single 10mm bolt.

Step-by-Step: Plug Replacement

3. Work one cylinder at a time. Starting with cylinder 1 (driver's side, front):

4. Unplug the coil electrical connector — press the tab and pull straight up.

5. Remove the 10mm coil bolt. Pull the coil straight up and out.

6. Before pulling the plug, use compressed air or a vacuum to blow debris out of the plug well. Any dirt that falls into the cylinder after the plug is removed can cause damage.

7. Insert your 14mm spark plug socket with extension. Break loose the plug counterclockwise, then spin out by hand for the last several turns.

8. Inspect the old plug: worn center electrode, rounded edges, or white/gray deposits indicate the plug is well past due.

9. Thread the new NGK ILFR6B-11 in by hand until snug — do not cross-thread. Then torque to 14 ft-lbs (19 Nm).

   Do not use anti-seize on these plugs — the 14 ft-lb spec is calibrated for dry threads. Anti-seize effectively reduces clamp load, which can cause plugs to loosen over time.

10. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the boot of the ignition coil. Reinstall the coil, seat it fully onto the plug boot, reinstall the 10mm bolt, reconnect the electrical connector.

11. Repeat for cylinders 2, 3, and 4.

12. Reinstall the engine cover. Start the engine and listen for smooth idle — no misfire, no hesitation.

What to Watch After Plug Replacement

• Misfire (P030X codes): If you get a rough idle or misfire code, pull the coil on the affected cylinder and verify the boot is fully seated on the plug. A partially seated coil causes intermittent spark.
• Hesitation at cold start: Normal for 1–2 starts after plug replacement as the ECU adapts to the new plug gap and electrode material.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Dealer

	DIY	Toyota Dealer
4 × NGK ILFR6B-11	$60–$80	Included
Labor	$0	$180–$250
Total	$60–$80	$280–$380+

Savings: $200–$300 per service. At 120,000-mile intervals, this is a one-time job most owners will do once or twice in the vehicle's life — doing it yourself makes a big dent.

For more Toyota RAV4 maintenance guides, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 spark plug replacement covers the 2018 model (still 2AR-FE engine, different plug spec), and the 2020 Toyota RAV4 battery replacement covers the battery swap on the same TNGA-K platform.

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