Why is my 2008 Toyota RAV4 hesitating when I press the gas pedal?

Quick Summary

• Issue: Check engine light with hesitation
• Vehicle: 2008 Toyota RAV4 Sport V6
• Problem: Failed downstream oxygen sensors
• Solution: Oxygen sensor and spark plug replacement
• Location: Omaha service

Summary

Check engine light code P0137 in a 2008 Toyota RAV4 typically indicates failing oxygen sensors causing poor engine performance. Gateway Auto's ASE-certified technicians diagnosed inconsistent voltage readings from both downstream oxygen sensors and replaced the aged components along with overdue spark plugs, restoring proper engine operation and eliminating the hesitation issue.

At Gateway Auto, we recently repaired a hesitation and check engine light issue on a 2008 Toyota RAV4. Here’s what triggered the code—and how we solved it.

5 Signs Your RAV4's Oxygen Sensors Are Failing

• Check engine light with P0137 or similar oxygen sensor codes
• Engine hesitation or rough idle during driving
• Poor fuel economy or increased emissions
• Engine running rich or lean at idle
• Failed emissions testing

What We Found: 3 Key Issues

1. Bank 1 Downstream Oxygen Sensor

The first sensor was showing slow voltage response and inconsistent readings that stayed below the expected threshold. This behavior leads to fuel-air mixture miscalculations, which affect driveability.

2. Bank 2 Downstream Oxygen Sensor

This sensor showed very low intermittent voltages, and its signals never reached proper operating range. It was aged beyond its usable life.

3. Overdue Spark Plugs

The spark plugs had over 100,000 miles with no record of replacement. Worn plugs reduce combustion efficiency and can worsen hesitation symptoms when combined with sensor issues.

Our 4-Step Repair Process

1. Diagnostic Testing
   Our techs used scan tools to monitor live voltage data from all oxygen sensors and compared readings between both banks.
2. Component Analysis
   Voltage graphs clearly showed that both downstream sensors were responding slowly and inconsistently—clear signs of age-related failure.
3. Sensor Replacement
   We installed new OE-style oxygen sensors for both Bank 1 and Bank 2 to restore proper fuel trim control.
4. Spark Plug Service
   We replaced all 6 iridium spark plugs and resealed the plenum with a new gasket set to ensure optimal combustion.

3 Ways to Prevent Oxygen Sensor Problems

• Regular Comprehensive Inspections
  Annual inspections help catch sensor degradation before drivability issues begin.
• Factory Scheduled Maintenance
  Replacing spark plugs and sensors at manufacturer-recommended intervals improves performance and longevity.
• Use Quality Fuel
  Cheap or contaminated gasoline can cause premature sensor wear and fouling.

What Customers Say

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Check engine light is off and the hesitation is completely gone.” — Linda B.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Professional diagnosis saved me from guessing what was wrong.” — Mark R.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do RAV4 oxygen sensors typically last?
A: Usually 80,000–120,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and fuel quality.

Q: Can I drive with a P0137 code?
A: Technically yes, but it can hurt your fuel economy and lead to further engine damage if not resolved promptly.

Q: Why did both sensors fail together?
A: Oxygen sensors degrade over time, and downstream sensors are exposed to similar heat and wear—so they often fail around the same time.

Call to Action

Don’t ignore check engine lights.
They’re more than just an annoyance—they can indicate damage that affects fuel economy, emissions, and long-term engine health. If your 2008 Toyota RAV4 is showing a P0137 code or hesitation while driving, contact our Omaha repair team today to get it properly diagnosed and repaired.