Parts for your 2020 Toyota Rav4-Radiator cap

2020 Toyota RAV4 radiator cap — what’s actually fitted?

Based on Toyota’s own technical literature, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 (petrol and hybrid) does not use a traditional radiator-mounted cap. In the Owner’s Manual cooling-system guidance and the Toyota Repair Manual procedures for the A25A-FKS/A25A-FXS engines, the serviceable pressure cap is located on the pressurised coolant reservoir (often called a degas or expansion bottle), not on the radiator itself. Many parts catalogues still refer to this piece as a “radiator cap”, but on the 2020 RAV4 it’s the reservoir cap that performs the pressure control and sealing functions.

Why the change? Modern closed, “degas” cooling systems place the pressure cap at the highest point in the system (the reservoir) rather than on the radiator neck. This layout helps the RAV4:

• Continuously separate and purge air from the coolant for better temperature stability
• Maintain correct system pressure with fewer hot spots and improved reliability
• Package the radiator lower for crash performance and bonnet line design
• Reduce scald risk, because topping up and bleeding happen at the reservoir

So while there’s no cap on the radiator itself, the vehicle absolutely relies on a correctly rated pressure cap on the coolant reservoir. That cap holds pressure (typically around 1.1 bar) to raise the boiling point, prevents coolant loss, and allows controlled expansion and return as the engine heats and cools. Toyota’s manuals caution not to open the reservoir cap when hot, reinforcing that it’s a pressurised component just like an old-school radiator cap.

Owners chasing a “radiator cap” for a 2020 RAV4 should look for the genuine-spec pressurised reservoir cap. It’s wise to have the cap pressure-tested during cooling-system servicing, especially if there are signs like frequent top-ups, coolant odour, crusty pink residue, a collapsed upper hose, or temperature swings under load. If the seal is cracked, the spring feels weak, or the cap fails a pressure test, replacement is inexpensive insurance. Always match the correct pressure rating and use Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) mixed to spec. Open the cap only when the engine is cold and sitting level, and wipe the neck and seal surfaces clean before refitting.

For RAV4 Hybrid models, note there is also an inverter/electronics cooling loop with its own reservoir, don’t confuse that cap with the engine-cooling reservoir cap, and service each circuit to Toyota’s recommendations.

Popular questions

Does the 2020 RAV4 have a radiator cap on the radiator?
No. The 2020 RAV4 uses a pressurised coolant reservoir with a pressure cap. Toyota’s manuals show no service cap on the radiator itself. The reservoir cap does the same job as a traditional radiator cap—holding system pressure and managing expansion.

What pressure rating cap does a 2020 RAV4 use?
Most 2020 RAV4 variants specify a cap around 1.1 bar (about 108 kPa). Always confirm the exact rating against the under-bonnet label or genuine parts listing for the VIN, and avoid mixing non-genuine caps with different spring rates.

When should the reservoir (radiator) cap be replaced?
There’s no strict kilometre interval—replace on condition. Have it pressure-tested during routine coolant service. If it won’t hold rated pressure, shows a perished seal, or you’re chasing unexplained coolant loss or overflow, fit a correct-spec replacement and re-test.