Toyota Rav4 problems

toyota logo

The Toyota RAV4 (Japanese: トヨタ・RAV4, Hepburn: Toyota Ravufō) is a compact crossover SUV produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It is known for starting the wave of compact crossovers.

It made its debut in Japan and Europe in 1994, and in North America in 1995, being launched in January 1996. The vehicle was designed for consumers wanting a vehicle that had most of the benefits of SUVs, such as increased cargo room, higher visibility, and the option of full-time four-wheel drive, along with the manoeuvrability and fuel economy of a compact car. The vehicle's name is an abbreviation of "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", or "Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive", although not all models come equipped with the four-wheel drive system.

For the third-generation model, Toyota offered both short- and long-wheelbase versions of the RAV4. Short-wheelbase versions were sold in Japan and Europe; long-wheelbase versions in Australia and North America. Toyota of Japan also sold the longer-wheelbase version as the Toyota Vanguard (Japanese: トヨタ・ヴァンガード, Hepburn: Toyota Vangādo) at Toyopet Store dealership chain from 2005 through 2016. RAV4 for the Japanese market were sold at two different Toyota dealership chains, Corolla Store and Netz.

In 2019, the RAV4 was the best-selling SUV of any type in the world, and the fourth best-selling passenger car overall. North America is the largest market, with 535,000 units sold in 2019, followed by Europe (133,000) and China (127,000). By February 2020, a total of 10 million RAV4s had been sold globally.

photo of Toyota Rav4 car production

Social links

Toyota Rav4 model years

toyota rav4 2024 photo
Rav4 2024
Toyota

34

0

43

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2023 photo
Rav4 2023
Toyota

56

1

31

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2022 photo
Rav4 2022
Toyota

71

1

31

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2021 photo
Rav4 2021
Toyota

196

1

29

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2020 photo
Rav4 2020
Toyota

509

6

39

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2019 photo
Rav4 2019
Toyota

724

7

38

1.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2018 photo
Rav4 2018
Toyota

248

3

38

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2017 photo
Rav4 2017
Toyota

254

3

39

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2016 photo
Rav4 2016
Toyota

207

3

35

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2015 photo
Rav4 2015
Toyota

272

4

43

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2014 photo
Rav4 2014
Toyota

167

4

33

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2013 photo
Rav4 2013
Toyota

230

2

39

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2012 photo
Rav4 2012
Toyota

256

5

39

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2011 photo
Rav4 2011
Toyota

276

11

37

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2010 photo
Rav4 2010
Toyota

392

14

42

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2009 photo
Rav4 2009
Toyota

321

15

39

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2008 photo
Rav4 2008
Toyota

567

14

38

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2007 photo
Rav4 2007
Toyota

993

14

36

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2006 photo
Rav4 2006
Toyota

698

11

39

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2005 photo
Rav4 2005
Toyota

139

5

38

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2004 photo
Rav4 2004
Toyota

150

2

38

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2003 photo
Rav4 2003
Toyota

325

0

39

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2002 photo
Rav4 2002
Toyota

555

0

39

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2001 photo
Rav4 2001
Toyota

323

0

39

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 2000 photo
Rav4 2000
Toyota

40

3

22

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 1999 photo
Rav4 1999
Toyota

70

5

32

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 1998 photo
Rav4 1998
Toyota

89

5

32

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 1997 photo
Rav4 1997
Toyota

59

1

31

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 1996 photo
Rav4 1996
Toyota

51

1

25

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 1995 photo
Rav4 1995
Toyota

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota rav4 1994 photo
Rav4 1994
Toyota

4

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Toyota Rav4 problems

The Toyota RAV4 is a popular and reliable compact SUV, but like all vehicles, it has some common problems reported by owners. Here are the most common issues with the Toyota RAV4, based on data from real owners and various sources:

  1. Evaporative System Issue: One of the most common problems with the Toyota RAV4 is a faulty evaporative system (EVAP) vapor canister. This issue can result in the Check Engine light illuminating, which typically requires replacing the entire vapor canister, including the vent valves. This problem is known to affect up to the 2016 models and can be an expensive fix.
  2. Catalytic Converter Software Issue: Previously, there was a software issue that would incorrectly report an issue with the catalytic converter when there actually wasn't one. This issue affected older models, but Toyota released a software update to correct it, so it should no longer be an issue.
  3. Oxygen Sensor Failure: Another common problem is the failure of oxygen sensors, which can cause the Check Engine light to turn on. This issue can be costly to fix, as some owners have reported replacing one sensor only to have to replace another one shortly after. This problem is known to affect models up to 2014.
  4. Transmission Issues: There have been a handful of reports of transmission problems with the 2020 Toyota RAV4, including stumbling transmissions, delayed acceleration, and leaky transmissions. While not a widespread issue, it's something to be aware of if you're considering a 2020 model.
  5. Steering Wheel Issues: Some RAV4 owners have reported strange noises coming from the steering rack, such as clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at full lock. In more serious cases, some people reported the steering wheel failing altogether.
  6. Water Pump Failure: Failure in the water pump on the RAV4 has been reported by drivers, usually accompanied by loud noises coming from the engine. This issue requires replacing the water pump to avoid larger problems.
  7. Gearbox Issues: Slipping gears and a slight whining noise coming from the gearbox are two common RAV4 complaints. Toyota has tried to address this issue by expanding the warranty to cover more mileage.
  8. Navigation/Audio Apparatus Installation: Some RAV4 owners have found fault with the way the navigation/audio apparatus has been installed, with the position of the screen being less than user-friendly due to sunlight glare.
  9. Engine Light Coming On: RAV4 owners have reported that their 'check engine' light comes on during drives, typically at lower speeds. This issue is hard to diagnose and could be due to a number of factors, but it's always advised to get your vehicle checked out to be on the safe side.

It's important to note that the Toyota RAV4 has an excellent reputation in terms of reliability, with a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, according to RepairPal. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of potential issues when considering purchasing a vehicle, especially when buying a used model.

Toyota Rav4

What is the common problem with Toyota RAV4?

But with more used RAV4s in the market — some with hundreds of thousands of miles on the odometer — some of these hiccups will be unavoidable. The RAV4's issues include excessive oil consumption, steering wheel problems, lagging transmissions, fuel system problems, and electrical complications, among other troubles.

What are the best years of a Toyota RAV4?

Best Toyota RAV4 SUVs to Buy Used

  1. 2016 Toyota RAV4. First, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 was one of the most popular model years, making it one of the best ever made. ...
  2. 2010 Toyota RAV4. ...
  3. 2017 Toyota RAV4. ...
  4. 2018 Toyota RAV4. ...
  5. 2009 Toyota RAV4.

Is Toyota RAV4 a reliable car?

Among all of our new Toyota vehicles for sale, the Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most reliable options on the market. The Toyota RAV4 also offers impressive engine specs, versatile capability, and warranty coverage that can help you tackle repairs down the road.

What is the weakness of the RAV4?

Infotainment is undoubtedly the RAV4's biggest weakness. The first problem is the hardware – the 10.25in screen can be slow to respond compared with those of rivals, which can make it tricky to use on the move. Plus, Toyota's software isn't the easiest to get along with.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Rav4 years

We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Rav4 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Rav4 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Rav4 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Rav4 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Toyota Rav4 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Rav4 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Rav4 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rav4 model years

A total of 731 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rav4 model years

There were a total of 261 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rav4 model years

There were a total of 516 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Rav4 model years

There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 8277 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Rav4 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Rav4 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Toyota Rav4 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • VIN: 2T3P1RFV5NW
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that she had heard an abnormal noise from the driver's side rear door. The contact stated that the sound was a "sloshing" sound of water. The contact stated that when she had parked the vehicle on a road with an upgrade with the front of the vehicle facing up, she observed that water was leaking out from the bottom of the door. The contact stated that when it had rained, the noise and water leak was more noticeable. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 26,000.
Toyota Rav4 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 2T3A1RFV4KW
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My coolant bypass valve gave out and Toyota is insisting it’s not covered under warranty my 10 year warranty. Toyota knew there was a defect and didn’t tell consumers.
Toyota Rav4 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • VIN: 2T3P1RFVXMW
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The front passenger seat is unusable as the OCS sensor has turned off the airbags for that seat. Every time the car is started, or begins driving after sitting idle for a couple of minutes, it will beep and alarm constantly for several minutes, warning me of the passenger airbag. It is a serous distraction, and now prevents me from transporting a passenger. This has been going on since June 2024, and dealer refuses to look at car due to recall. I was even willing to pay myself to make the repair. No one will touch it. The remedy was originally set for the summer time, then end of 3rd quarter 2024. Now, it’s almost a month after the end of the 3rd quarter. Thank you for your time in reviewing this.
Toyota Rav4 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • VIN: 2T3WFREV8EW
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The entire computer screen is stuck on the downloading picture. Then it will restart itself and do it all over again. Nothing works. No radio or anything. I’ve been looking online and seeing there is a lot of people with the same issues a but no solutions. How has Toyota not fixed this issue yet.
Toyota Rav4 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • VIN: 4T3E6RFV4RU
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: - Passenger side rear tire failed - Tire is at dealer and available for inspection - Extremely dangerous situation, tire failed on a section of interstate highway under construction. Only 2 lanes available and they were narrower than normal width. Part of the shoulder was converted to driving lane so almost no shoulder to pull off on. The incident happened on a Sunday afternoon and interstate was extremely busy with weekend traffic. My wife was extremely lucky not to be involved in a serious accident. - Tire has not been inspected by anyone other than the car dealer - If the tire pressure warning light came on it wasn't noticed. There were no symptoms or warnings prior to the failure.
Toyota Rav4 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • VIN: JTMBD31V675
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Subframe rusted in half, the only way I found it was when we put new shocks on it. It peeled off about 1/2 the tread on a brand new tire. Dangerous, if passengers side rear tire would've broke loose it would throw rear of car into oncoming traffic!
Toyota Rav4 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: See Attached Letter
Toyota Rav4 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 4T3E6RFV4RU
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: After parking car in driveway, a puddle of fuel is left directly under fuel tank. Girlfriend thought it was ac condensation. I stuck my finger in puddle and smelled the gasoline. Girlfriend is taking car to dealer.
Toyota Rav4 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 2T3WFREV9DW
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owned a 2013 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact attempted to start the vehicle; and noticed that the vehicle would completely shut off with no warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that the 12-volt battery was inoperable. The contact noticed that the battery was loose. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 191,264. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Rav4 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: JTMZFREV3FD
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Rav4 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
  • VIN: 2T3F1RFV8MC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Rav4 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 2T3A1RFVXLW
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? THE HINGES ARE BROKEN ON THE HATCH How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? MY SAFETY AS WELL AS OTHERS IS PUT AT RISK BECAUSE THE HINGE IS BROKEN. THE HATCH WILL NOT CLOSE THEREFOR COULD FLY OFF WHILE DRIVING Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? THE ISSUE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALERSHIP BUT THEY FOUND NO PROBLEM, ANOTHER APPOINTMENT SCHEDULED TUESDAY10/22 Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO This is not a rare issue. I have seen dozens upon dozens of articles on Google, Facebook and Reddit of others dealing with the same exact issue. Examples: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Toyota Rav4 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 2T3P1RFV1KC
  • Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
  • Summary: I was stopped at a red light. When the light turned green and I pressed the gas, the engine sputtered and almost shut off. Just before I came to a stop, the engine revved up and the vehicle accelerated. The uneven acceleration is concerning. I recently replaced the gas cap and serviced the fuel system, which leads me to believe there is a defect with the engine. Later in the day, the check engine light went on and AWD system, cruise control, and lane assist were disabled.
Toyota Rav4 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 2T3P1RFV1KC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: A distracting message “a connected device is not supported” flashes on my console screen every 10 seconds. This occurs when there are no device or cable connected. It blocks the clock and driving directions if I am projecting them through CarPlay. The SOS emergency system lights flash back and forth from red to green.
Toyota Rav4 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: JTMBFREV6HJ
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: i have a 2017 rav4 with less than 60k miles and the factory back up camera stopped working

Latest 5 recalls Toyota Rav4

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 141 recalls for different components of the Toyota Rav4.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Toyota Rav4 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
  • Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
  • Model: Toyota Rav4 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
  • Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
  • Model: Toyota Rav4 2014
  • Report Received Date: 2023-11-01
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
  • Consequence: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risks were mailed December 8, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated by December 2024. Remedy is planned to launch to dealers by November 1, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
  • Model: Toyota Rav4 2016
  • Report Received Date: 2023-11-01
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
  • Consequence: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risks were mailed December 8, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated by December 2024. Remedy is planned to launch to dealers by November 1, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
  • Model: Toyota Rav4 2017
  • Report Received Date: 2023-11-01
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
  • Consequence: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risks were mailed December 8, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated by December 2024. Remedy is planned to launch to dealers by November 1, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.

Latest negative Toyota Rav4 car reviews

  1. Watson Kub 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I have been a loyal Toyota customer since 1977. However, I must say that I was disappointed with the 2019 Rav4. It seems that the engineering department at Toyota released the car before it was ready. Despite this, my dealer was amazing. They did everything they could to help me and were on top of everything. Unfortunately, the transmission (8 speed) was not up to par. It hesitated around corners and the engine noise was quite loud. I believe that Toyota needs to revisit the design of this SUV and make the necessary corrections as soon as possible. I noticed that they are now offering $1250.00 cash back, which is a good sign. Although I traded the car with only 3300 miles on it, I am now enjoying my first ever Subaru Outback. Sorry Toyota, but until you get your quality back to where it once was, I think you may have lost me as a customer.

  2. Kyler Reichert 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2021

    If you're considering test driving a Toyota RAV4, it's worth noting that some customers have reported issues with the interior. However, there are many other great options in the mid-size SUV market, such as the Honda CRV, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Tucson, and Subaru Outback. It's always a good idea to test drive multiple vehicles to find the one that best fits your needs and preferences. Thank you for considering your options!

  3. Orland Corwin 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2007

    The 2007 Rav 4 had some issues during the first 100,000 miles, including an external oil line that blew at 80,000 miles. However, I was able to save the engine as it happened just as I was coming up an I 95 ramp. It is worth noting that this occurred before the recall. Additionally, there was a bad battery in the first 18 months and a $600 air bag electronic line that went bad, neither of which had a recall. The disk brake rotor plates, both front and rear, needed to be replaced before reaching 60,000 miles. However, from 100,000 to 238,000 miles, the car has been working flawlessly and even gets better mileage than during the first 100,000 miles. Overall, while there were some initial issues, the car has proven to be reliable and efficient in the long run.

  4. Connor Zboncak 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2008

    The V6 engine is quite peppy, but unfortunately, the driver's seat doesn't go back very far. As someone who is only 5'6

  5. Dewitt Christiansen 2025-06-17

    Vehicle year: 2002

    The car is running fine, but unfortunately, the check engine light keeps coming on. I had the ECM reprogrammed, but it hasn't made any difference so far. I'm wondering if Toyota still offers support for their products, as it would be great if they could take responsibility for any issues. I hope to find a solution soon, but I'm hesitant to purchase another Toyota car in the future.

Latest positive Toyota Rav4 car reviews

  1. Toby Nicolas 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I rented a RAV4 XLE AWD while visiting my sister and found it to be very comfortable. The seating position was excellent and much better than my current car. The visibility was also excellent and the lane changing alert worked well. Although the engine was somewhat underpowered from a stop, it quickly got up to speed. I own a Subaru Outback, and the RAV4 definitely has a more truck-like feel, which is not necessarily a bad thing, just different. There was a bit of road noise at highway speed and a whine at acceleration, which could have been engineered better. The 'A' pillar does lean back a bit low, so it's definitely something to consider if you're taller and need to get in and out of the vehicle. The interior door handle is close to the hinge, as others have noted, but I didn't really have any difficulty using it. The radio was intuitive and actually quite simple. I loved 'Car Play', which displayed my phone's GPS on the screen. Overall, it's a solid vehicle with minimal complaints.

  2. Giovani Senger 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2015

    Congratulations on your purchase of the 2015 AWD RAV4 XLE! It sounds like you made a great choice. The car has a fantastic sound system that really cranks, and it's great that you got 3 months of free XM/SIRIUS radio and free maintenance for 25,000 miles. The 6-speed transmission being factory sealed and never needing to be checked is a real plus. It's surprising that the XLE w/17

  3. Benedict Tromp 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2016

    After conducting 3 months of research, we ultimately decided to purchase a 2016 Rav4 XLE. Although we were also considering the CRV, we ultimately decided against it during the test drive. There was just something off about the CVT. While driving on secondary roads, we didn't notice anything unusual, but once we hit the highway, it felt like the car was being held back. My wife even noticed that the information cluster indicated the MPG's were 14.5. We asked the salesman about it, but he had no idea that Honda had a transmission issue with the CRV. On the other hand, the Rav had no such issues, drove smoothly, had plenty of space, and looked great on the inside. If you're currently driving a v-6, like we were, you'll be surprised to find that there's very little difference in performance. As new Toyota owners, we've talked to many others who absolutely love their Toyotas. Additionally, the Toyota dealership was willing to negotiate with us.

  4. Landen Luettgen 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 2004

    Congratulations on finding your perfect preowned car! It's great to hear that you prioritized the safety of your family and yourself, and this car seems to have exceeded your expectations with its curtain airbags, anti-skid, and all-wheel drive. The highly configurable interior is also a huge plus, especially with the second row of seats that can be removed to create more hauling space. It's fantastic that you were able to save money by using this car to transport furniture from Ikea. Overall, it sounds like you're having a lot of fun driving this car with your family on weekends. The well-supported seats and luxurious interior must make for a comfortable ride. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!

  5. Alfonzo Toy 2025-06-24

    Vehicle year: 1997

    The RAV4 is such a great car, just like all Toyotas. It's also really fun to drive! Plus, it's so easy to park in the city because of its short length, and you can even see above the other cars in traffic. I've had no problems with it at all, thanks to regular maintenance. Although it's technically a truck, the ride is still pretty smooth.

Are you having problems with your Toyota Rav4?

Add car complaint
Toyota Rav4 photo