Block Heater Recommendation for 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Updated 12/17/2025 | Published 12/09/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Zerostart Custom Fit Engine Block Heater - Freeze Plug Style - 40 mm - 120V - 400 Watts

(1)

$42.99

Kat's Heaters Custom Fit Engine Block Heater - Cartridge Style - 120V - 400 Watts

(199)

$89.88

Question:

I want an engine block heater for my 2018 RAV4 SE Hybrid. According to your web site, either a cartridge-type unit such as the Model KH11813 would work or a unit that fits into the freeze plug Part Number: ZE62FR. What are the pros and cons of each? And do they fit my 2018 RAV4 SE Hybrid? Is my hybrid engine the same as the basic 2018 RAV4?

asked by: Therese D

Expert Reply:

Hey Therese, I would go with a frost plug style part # ZE62FR for your 2018 Toyota RAV4 hybridas it has direct contact with the coolant in the engine which will heat up the engine quicker and also more uniform since the coolant spreads throughout the entire engine. How cold does it get around you in the winter?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Therese D.

12/17/2025

Thanks for the info, Jameson. Our coldest temperature sometimes spikes down to 20 degrees F. Most of our winter temps are around 30 degrees F. I am considering an engine heater because most of my trips are in the early morning and generally for only about 2 miles, which I understand causes more wear on the engine. Would I have to have the frost plug style part # ZE62FR installed by a professional mechanic? Thanks for your help! Therese

Jameson C.

12/17/2025

@ThereseD Install of the frost plug heater isn't super difficult but its probably not for someone who isn't familiar with working on cars. If you have a professional mechanic you trust it really would be a quick job though.