This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power liftgate actuator on a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 2.5L I4 FWD, which controls the automatic opening and closing of the rear liftgate.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Liftgate actuator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification - Toyota 69200-42080 or equivalent
• Trim panel clips (if broken) × 5 — Toyota 90467-10188 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Open the liftgate and prop it fully open
3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
4. Gather all tools and new actuator assembly
5. Ensure adequate lighting inside the liftgate area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove liftgate interior trim panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the plastic clips securing the liftgate interior trim panel. Start at the bottom corners and work your way around the perimeter. There are approximately 8-10 clips holding the panel. Pull the panel away gently to access the clips holding the top section near the liftgate glass. Once all clips are released, lift the panel upward and away from the liftgate frame.
2. 2

   Disconnect wiper motor and washer hose (if equipped)
   Locate the rear wiper motor connector on the driver's side of the liftgate. Press the tab and disconnect the electrical connector. If equipped with a rear washer, disconnect the washer hose by pressing the release tab and pulling the hose from the nozzle. Set these components aside.
3. 3

   Locate the liftgate actuator assembly
   The power liftgate actuator is mounted on the passenger side of the liftgate, behind the trim panel. It is a black cylindrical unit approximately 8-10 inches long with an electrical connector and mechanical linkage connecting to the liftgate latch mechanism. Identify the actuator mounting bolts and electrical connector.
4. 4

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Locate the actuator electrical connector with gray or black housing. Press the locking tab firmly and pull the connector straight off the actuator. You may need to wiggle it slightly. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If equipped with a secondary connector for position sensors, disconnect that as well.
5. 5

   Remove actuator mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the two or three mounting bolts securing the actuator to the liftgate frame. These bolts are typically 10mm hex head. Support the actuator with one hand as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Note the orientation and position of any spacers or washers.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Disconnect actuator linkage from latch
   The actuator connects to the liftgate latch mechanism via a plastic or metal linkage rod with a clip connection. Carefully pry or slide the clip away from the connection point, then rotate and pull the linkage rod free from the latch arm. Note the exact position and orientation for reinstallation. The linkage may have a ball-and-socket connection requiring you to compress a retaining clip.
7. 7

   Remove old actuator
   With all connections released, carefully maneuver the actuator assembly out of the liftgate cavity. There may be limited space, so angle it as needed to clear surrounding components. Inspect the mounting area for any debris or corrosion and clean if necessary.
8. 8

   Prepare new actuator for installation
   Remove the new actuator from packaging and compare it to the old unit to verify correct replacement. Check that the linkage connection point is in the correct position (usually retracted or neutral). Apply a small amount of lithium grease to the linkage connection point if not pre-lubricated.
9. 9

   Install new actuator assembly
   Position the new actuator in the liftgate cavity in the same orientation as the old unit. Align the mounting holes with the frame. Start threading the mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper alignment before tightening. Install any spacers or washers in their original positions.
10. 10

    Torque actuator mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench, tighten the actuator mounting bolts to 27.0 Nm (20 lb-ft) in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are present. Ensure the actuator is seated flush against the mounting surface and does not move when pulled gently.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect actuator linkage to latch
    Align the actuator linkage rod with the latch arm connection point. Push the ball end into the socket until you hear or feel a click indicating the retaining clip has engaged. Tug gently on the linkage to verify it is securely connected and will not pop off during operation.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align the actuator electrical connector with the actuator pins and push firmly until you hear a click. The locking tab should engage fully. Reconnect any secondary connectors if equipped. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is locked in place.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and perform initial test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Using the interior liftgate button or key fob, test the power liftgate operation. The actuator should engage and you should hear it operating. If the liftgate does not respond, check all electrical connections before proceeding.
    ⚠Keep all body parts clear of the liftgate during this test. The liftgate will move with force and can cause injury.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reinstall liftgate trim panel
    Reconnect the rear wiper motor connector and washer hose if previously disconnected. Position the liftgate interior trim panel and align it with the mounting points. Starting at the top near the glass, press firmly on each clip location to seat the panel. Work your way around the perimeter, pressing firmly until all clips are fully engaged and the panel is flush with the liftgate.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panel clips are fully seated and the panel is flush with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are locked in place with locking tabs engaged
3. Confirm wiper motor and washer hose connections are secure if applicable

Verification

• Test power liftgate operation from the interior button - liftgate should unlatch and begin opening smoothly
• Test power liftgate operation from the key fob - verify remote operation functions correctly
• Test the liftgate close function - actuator should engage latch mechanism and fully close the liftgate
• Test the obstacle detection feature by placing a soft object in the liftgate path - liftgate should reverse direction
• Manually open and close the liftgate to verify no binding or interference from actuator or linkage
• Check for any unusual noises during operation that might indicate improper installation
• Verify liftgate latches securely in the closed position and does not pop open
• Confirm all trim panels are properly installed with no rattles or loose clips

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