Which Toyota RAV4s are being recalled?
The RAV4s being recalled depend on the current campaigns, and to know exactly which models are affected you must check official recall databases using your VIN.
Understanding why recalls happen for the RAV4
Recalls are issued when a safety defect or noncompliance with safety standards is identified that could affect vehicle operation or occupant protection. For the Toyota RAV4, campaigns can target specific model years and, in some cases, particular VIN ranges. The list of affected vehicles changes as new safety campaigns are announced, repaired, or closed.
How to verify if your RAV4 is affected
Use the official sources and your vehicle identification number (VIN) to confirm whether an open recall applies to your car. This process is free and can be completed remotely before you visit a dealer.
Before using the list below, note that you will need your VIN, which is found on the driver’s side door jamb or on your vehicle registration.
- Check the NHTSA recall database for open recalls on your vehicle. You can search by make/model or enter your VIN at NHTSA Recalls.
- Visit Toyota’s official recall portal for notices specific to Toyota vehicles at Toyota Recall.
- Contact your local Toyota dealer to verify the status of open recalls and schedule the repair; recall work is free of charge during the campaign.
Notes: If no recalls appear for your VIN today, new campaigns can be issued later. Consider signing up for recall alerts if available and check back periodically.
What to expect if your RAV4 is recalled
When a recall affects your vehicle, you will receive notification from Toyota or the dealer with instructions to repair the issue at no cost. The repair may involve an inspection, replacement of parts, or software updates. The duration and complexity of the repair vary by campaign and parts availability. In some cases, rental assistance may be offered during the repair, depending on the recall and local dealer policies.
Summary
There is no single, universal list of recalled RAV4s that applies to all owners at all times. The exact models and VIN ranges change as new recalls are announced. To determine whether your RAV4 is affected, perform a VIN-based check on official recall sites (NHTSA and Toyota) and follow up with your local dealer for confirmation and scheduling.
What's the most common problem with a Toyota RAV4?
Common problems with the Toyota RAV4 include issues with the automatic transmission in older models, engine oil consumption in some four-cylinder engines, and various electrical faults like infotainment screen freezes or 12-volt battery drains. Additionally, recent models have seen reports of hybrid floor wire corrosion, and some specific model years have experienced issues like front suspension arm cracks, faulty fuel pumps, or liftgate hinge failures.
This video discusses common problems with the Toyota RAV4, including transmission, engine, and electrical issues: 52sFuel ForceYouTube · Nov 16, 2024
Common problems by category
This video explains how to avoid common mistakes when driving a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which can affect its performance and efficiency: 56sToyota WorldYouTube · Jul 3, 2025
Transmission
- Older models: Rough or jerky shifting due to a computer-transmission communication issue.
- Higher mileage: Rough shifting, delayed engagement, and grinding noises in 8-speed automatic transmissions.
- Other issues: Faulty solenoids that prevent the transmission from engaging certain gears.
Engine
- Oil consumption: Some four-cylinder engines are known to burn excessive oil, requiring more frequent top-offs.
- Stalling: Intermittent stalling or rough running, sometimes linked to fuel system problems.
- Fuel pump failure: Diagnostic codes like P0171 (System Too Lean) often point to a failing fuel pump, which can cause stalling and disengage the all-wheel drive.
- Coolant bypass valve defect: Some models may experience overheating and stalling due to a faulty bypass valve.
Electrical
- Infotainment system: Frozen screens and other malfunctions are reported.
- Battery drain: Unexpected draining of the 12-volt battery, sometimes requiring firmware or hardware updates.
- Sensor faults: Sporadic sensor issues have been noted.
- Lane-assist malfunction: Some vehicles experience unexpected swerving or jerking due to faulty lane-assist systems.
Other issues
- Brake squeal: Light-to-moderate brake squeal has been reported on some recent model years.
- Suspension: Older models have had rear suspension hardware issues that can affect alignment.
- Hybrid floor wire corrosion: Some hybrid models have a problem with the wiring harness under the floor corroding, which can cause radio issues and requires replacement.
- Fuel tank: Certain models have a defect where the fuel pump clicks off early, preventing the tank from filling completely.
- Liftgate hinge: Lawsuits have been filed regarding premature failure of power liftgate hinges on some 2014–2021 models.
You can watch this video to see what goes wrong with used Toyota RAV4s: 56sEveryman DriverYouTube · Jun 9, 2025
Which RAV4 model to avoid?
You should be cautious with the 2001–2003, 2006–2008, and 2013–2014 model years due to issues like transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, and rough shifting. The 2019 model year had fuel pump problems, while the 2013–2018 range had reports of electrical fires related to the 12-volt battery. Additionally, the 2014–2021 models have been associated with a liftgate hinge lawsuit.
Specific model years to approach with caution
- 2001–2003: Prone to transmission failure, with potential issues in the transmission control module (TCM).
- 2006–2008: Suffered from significant oil consumption with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
- 2009–2012: Had reports of unintended acceleration, suspension, and drivetrain issues.
- 2013–2014: Experiences included rough shifting and transmission hesitation, a faulty stereo/navigation system, and potential electrical fires in the 12-volt battery system.
- 2014–2021: Some models are involved in a lawsuit regarding a defective power liftgate hinge that can fail prematurely.
- 2019: Had fuel pump and engine cooling problems.
General advice
- Check for recalls and maintenance records: Always verify that any recalls have been addressed and that the vehicle has a consistent maintenance history.
- Inspect thoroughly: Regardless of the model year, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is crucial.
- Consider a hybrid: The hybrid models often have better fuel economy and a quieter, more energetic powertrain, though they can still have their own set of issues.
Are there any recalls on the Toyota RAV4?
Yes, there are several recent and past recalls for the Toyota RAV4, including a large recall for a Panoramic View Monitor system that affects 2022-2026 models, and a recall for 2024 models due to a potential issue with front brake calipers or wheel detachment. Additionally, recalls exist for the 2023 model year related to valve stems and load labels, and for the 2019-2020 models concerning potential power steering assist loss.
This video explains a recall on the 2022-2026 Toyota RAV4 and other Toyota and Lexus vehicles: 31sLSFTYouTube · Oct 31, 2025
Recent recalls
- 2024 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Lexus NX: Some bolts securing the front brake caliper and wheel hub bearing may not have been tightened properly. This can lead to brake caliper damage or wheel detachment.
- 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru vehicles: A recall was issued for the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system, which can cause the rearview camera to freeze or fail to display when in reverse. The fix is to update the parking assist software.
- 2023 Toyota RAV4: Some 2023 models have a recall because the tire valve stem may have been improperly installed or damaged, and the load-carrying capacity label may have incorrect weight information.
This video explains a recall on the 2024 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Lexus NX vehicles: 38sLSFTYouTube · Dec 6, 2024
Other recalls by model year
- 2019-2020 Toyota RAV4: Some models with the electric power steering (EPS) system are recalled because water can enter the steering gear box cover, leading to a loss of power steering assist.
- 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4: A recall was issued because certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit correctly, leading to a short circuit and potential fire hazard.
- 2006-2011 Toyota RAV4: Recall for a power window switch that can short-circuit, increasing the risk of fire.
- 2014-2015 Toyota RAV4: Potential loss of power steering assist.
- 2004-2005 Toyota RAV4: Recall for defective Takata airbag inflators.
- 2012 Toyota RAV4: Recall to update software that could cause anti-lock brakes and traction control to deactivate.
How to check for recalls
- Visit the official Toyota recall website, the NHTSA website, or use the Toyota or Lexus app and enter your vehicle's VIN to see all outstanding recalls.
What Toyota models are being recalled?
Recent Toyota recalls affect models including the 2022-2024 Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, 2024 Lexus GX (engine debris issue) and a broader recall covering the 2023-2025 Crown, GR Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Venza, and 2024-2025 Tacoma and Grand Highlander (potential driving blind issue). Other models with past or separate recalls include the 2019-2020 Corolla, CH-R, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, and various 2020-2021 models like the Camry, Corolla, and RAV4. It is recommended to check the specific VIN on the Toyota USA Newsroom or NHTSA website to see if your vehicle is affected.
Current and recent recalls
- Engine debris: 2022-2024 Toyota Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, and 2024 Lexus GX vehicles.
- Driving blind issue: 2023-2025 Toyota Crown, GR Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, and Venza; 2024-2025 Tacoma and Grand Highlander.
- Other affected models: 2025 Camry, Crown Signia, and RAV4 PHEV, along with the 2024-2025 Lexus TX and 2025 Lexus RX.
Older or separate recalls
- 2019-2020: Corolla, Corolla Hybrid, and C-HR.
- 2020-2022: Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, and various Lexus ES and RX models.
- 2021: Sienna Hybrid.
How to check your specific vehicle
- Visit the Toyota recall website.
- Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate information.
- You can also check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
