Toyota Rav-4 reliability
The Toyota Rav-4 fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 34.7% of 30,974 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.
25 DVSA recalls for the Toyota Rav-4
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
Parking Assist ECU reprogram on multiple models
For certain vehicles equipped with a Parking Assist ECU a component of the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system that displays the rear view image the software may cause the rear view image to freeze or not display
Fix: Reprogram the parking assist ECU.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 8,802 vehicles
Combination Meter Reprogramming on Multiple Models
For certain vehicles equipped with the combination meter system (where various information is displayed) that due to an improper programming of the combination meter unnecessarily repetitive data is written to a memory device. This may cause the memory device to deteriorate and the monitor to not display during the meter at start up and remain in this state permanently.
Fix: Reprogram or replace the combination meter.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 5,112 vehicles
On affected vehicles there is a possibility that the DCM may not complete the shutdown process within a specific period of time when the ignition is turned off causing the DCM to not restart at the next ignition cycle and making the e-Call function unavailable. As a result the vehicles do not comply with relevant regulations.
On affected vehicles there is a possibility that the DCM may not complete the shutdown process within a specific period of time when the ignition is turned off causing the DCM to not restart at the next ignition cycle and making the e-Call function unavailable. As a result the vehicles do not comply with relevant regulations.
Fix: The software of the DCM (Data Communication Module) will be updated via an Over the Air (OTA) wireless update.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 27,327 vehicles
DC-DC converter may have been damaged during production
The plug-in hybrid system of the subject vehicles includes a DC-DC converter that reduces the voltage of the electricity from the Hybrid Vehicle (HV) battery in order to charge the vehicle�s 12V battery. Contained within the DC-DC converter is a current rectifying module that is installed on the circuit board. Some of these modules may have been damaged during production by the supplier and could fail so creating a short circuit. This allows current from the 12V battery to continue to flow through the module and the module will generate heat. Under certain conditions if excessive heat is generated components within and outside the DC-DC converter could sustain thermal damage increasing the risk of a vehicle fire.
Fix: Replace the DC-DC Converter.
Recalled models: RAV4 PHEV · 3,422 vehicles
The Hybrid Vehicle Control ECU (HEV-ECU) contains software that could cause the hybrid system to shut down after driving continuously in EV mode in cold temperatures and when the accelerator pedal is rapidly pressed to further accelerate the vehicle. This could result in a loss of drive and an increased risk of a crash.
The Hybrid Vehicle Control ECU (HEV-ECU) contains software that could cause the hybrid system to shut down after driving continuously in �EV mode� in cold temperatures and when the accelerator pedal is rapidly pressed to further accelerate the vehicle. This could result in a loss of drive and an increased risk of a crash.
Fix: Reprogram the HEV ECU.
Recalled models: RAV4 PHEV · 686 vehicles
The force-limiter in the seat belt retractor may not operate as designed
The subject front seat belt assemblies are service parts designed for certain Toyota and Lexus models containing a seat belt retractor with a force-limiter function using a torsion shaft which helps control the loads on the occupant applied by the shoulder belt after the seat belt retractor locks up during a crash. During production the torsion shaft may have been manufactured incorrectly and the seat belt may not operate as designed allowing the seat belt to extend further than intended after locking. This can increase the amount of forward displacement of the occupant increasing the risk of an injury in the event of a crash severe enough to activate a force-limiter.
Fix: To inspect and replace the seat belt assembly if required.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 2 vehicles
THE EMERGENCY CALLING SYSTEM (eCall) MAY NOT FUNCTION WHEN REQUIRED
The emergency calling system (eCall) may not function when required.
Fix: Inspect the emergency calling system and update DCM software. If the DCM is found to be damaged replace it with updated software.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 26,575 vehicles
There is a possibility that the exhaust gas recirculation cooler could develop an internal coolant leak
A possibility that the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler could develop an internal coolant leak
Fix: Replace the EGR cooler in all involved vehicles and if necessary replace the inlet manifold.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 24,241 vehicles
Takata airbag inflator may rupture on deployment
The absorption of moisture into the driver�s airbag propellant could lead to slow deployment or inflator rupture
Fix: Replace the airbag inflator or the airbag assembly. Toyota is still preparing for the development and production of the remedy parts
Recalled models: RAV4 · 37,586 vehicles
The front lower suspension arms may have cracks on some portions of its surface
The front lower suspension arms may have cracks on some portions of its surface.
Fix: Replace the front lower arms of affected vehicles.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 791 vehicles
Brake booster pump may stop working
An electrical connection within the motor may cause the brake booster pump to stop operating
Fix: Inspect and replace the brake booster pump assembly if necessary.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 2,146 vehicles
The emergency calling system may not be enabled
There is a possibility that the emergency calling system has not been activated.
Fix: Inspect and activate the emergency call system if necessary.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 3,484 vehicles
Incorrect tightening torque was possibly applied during previous injector removal or replacement
An incorrect tightening torque was applied at the moment of injector re-installation.
Fix: Check the injector clamp bolt torque and replace the parts if necessary.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 321 vehicles
Possibility of a fuel leak
In certain specific conditions fuel may leak from the low pressure line due to a compatibility issue between the fuel filter and fuel line connector.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the fuel line connector and fit an improved filter.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 4,818 vehicles
Bolts on the exhaust side of the turbocharger assembly may be incorrectly tightened
Affected vehicles have a 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine. There is a possibility that the bolts on the exhaust-side of the turbocharger assembly may not have been correctly tightened during manufacture.
Fix: On affected vehicles check bolts. Where necessary replace the turbocharger.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 442 vehicles
Seatbelt may not perform as designed
In the event of a high-speed collision principally in the frontal direction there is a possibility that the lap belt webbing on the outboard seats of the second row could contact a portion of the seat cushion frame become cut and separate.
Fix: On affected vehicles fit a plastic protector to the seat frame.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 49,015 vehicles
Risk of fire
Affected vehicles are equipped with a driver�s side Power Window Master Switch (PWMS) containing sliding electrical contact modules. These modules may not have been incorrectly coated during the manufacturing process. This may cause a short circuit which could cause the switch to overheat and melt
Fix: Inspect switch and apply coating. If switch indicates signs of malfunction it should be replaced.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 123,306 vehicles
Driver side airbag may rupture
Subject vehicles are fitted with driver's air bag assemblies with single stage inflators. There is an increases potential for moisture ingress which could make the inflator more susceptible to rupture during deployment. Fragments may injure occupants.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the airbag.
Recalled models: RAV4
Drivers airbag may not function
The steering column assembly in affected vehicles contains electrical connections to the driver's air bag module housed in a spiral cable assembly which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer the FFC could contact a small point of the retainer and become damaged when the steering wheel is turned. In FFC's with seven channel circuits this damage could occur to a circuit on the FFC that provides connectivity to the driver's air bag module. If connectivity is lost the air bag warning light will illuminate. In addition the driver's air bag could become deactivated causing it not to deploy in the event of a crash. This could increase the risk of injury to the driver.
Fix: Replace spiral cables with new ones
Recalled models: RAV4 · 26,210 vehicles
Fire may occur
It is possible moisture or other fluids may enter the drivers window and contaminate the main power window switch. If this occurs and the switch is damaged it could overheat and cause it to melt and/or smoke. If this situation is not identified it could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and check the switch. If the switch is not damaged a waterproof cover will be fitted. If the switch is damaged it will be replaced and a waterproof cover will be fitted.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 138,049 vehicles
Rear suspension arm may separate
If the rear suspension arm is adjusted as part of a wheel alignment or other repairs whilst in service it is possible that backlash can occur. This can allow corrosion to develop and cause the threads to deteriorate. Ultimately this could result in failure of the arm with a resultant loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check the torque on the arm. Where necessary the arm will be replaced.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 65,863 vehicles
Accelerator pedal may fail to return to idle
It has been identified that on affected vehicles condensation resulting from cold-weather use of the heater or other causes may form on the worn surface of a component within the throttle pedal assembly known as the friction device. If this occurs there is a possibility that in the worst case the accelerator pedal may return slowly or does not return to the engine idle position.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have a precision-cut steel reinforcing bar fitted into the accelerator pedal assembly which will create a space in order to reduce the surface tension between the friction device and a component referred to as the pedal arm. The subject bar also strengthens the reaction force of the spring that returns the accelerator pedal to it's non-pressed position.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 174,426 vehicles
Front coil spring may fracture resulting in the possibility of tyre damage
Due to insufficient surface treatment prior to painting the paint on the front coil springs may not have adhered properly. This can render the spring susceptible to corrosion in environments where road salt is used. Prolonged use of the vehicle in this condition may cause the spring to fracture which in extreme cases can lead to tyre damage.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have both front coil springs replaced with quality assured items.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 1,998 vehicles
Airbags may not inflate during a collision
Due to improper assembly of the airbag inflator used in the side airbag curtain shield airbag and knee airbag systems the subject airbags may not fully inflate during a collision resulting in an increased risk of injury to the vehicle's occupants.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject airbags replaced.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 11 vehicles
Road wheel spokes may crack and separate
It has been identified that steel wheels of insufficient strength have been fitted to some grades of RAV4 vehicles fitted with diesel engines. The possibility then exist that a crack may appear on the spoke(s) of the wheel which in the worst case could cause the spoke to separate.
Fix: Affected vehicles will have their wheels replaced with those of an improved quality.
Recalled models: RAV4 · 851 vehicles
Checking a Toyota Rav-4 before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.