2021 Toyota RAV4

387 complaints on file, page 1 of 20.

1. Filed Sep 25, 2026Failure Sep 12, 2026Simpsonville, SCAutomatic emergency braking, Warning, AssistCrash

   While changing lanes in my 2021 Toyota RAV4 with my turn signal activated, the Lane Departure Alert / Lane Tracing Assist system applied an unexpected steering input that pulled my vehicle directly into a Jersey barrier, resulting in physical contact with the barrier. I was intentionally and safely moving into the adjacent lane when the system intervened abruptly and steered my vehicle toward the barrier. My speed was approximately 55 - 60 mph. The weather was rainy off and on but not raining at the time. The road surface was damp. The lane markings were clear and no dashboard warnings appeared prior to the steering event. I had my blinker on and was actively changing lanes. The lane‑assist system should not have intervened during a deliberate lane change, yet it applied a strong steering correction that overpowered my input. I attempted to counter‑steer, but the system’s force caused my vehicle to strike the barrier. My vehicle made contact with the Jersey barrier, causing damage to the driver’s side of my vehicle. The unexpected steering input created a sudden loss of control and a dangerous situation that could have resulted in a more severe crash. I am aware of other 2021 RAV4 owners reporting similar unintended steering behavior with lane‑assist systems, including steering toward barriers or roadside objects. This appears to be a recurring safety defect involving the vehicle’s lane‑keeping functionality. A lane‑assist system overriding a driver‑initiated lane change, especially with the turn signal activated, and steering the vehicle into a fixed object presents a serious risk of injury or death.

   NHTSA complaint 11766944
2. Filed Sep 23, 2026Failure Sep 18, 2026Garland, TXUnknown or other

   Coolant bypass valve but toyota of richardson said the csp does not cover it. My engine maintenance required pop up on my dashboard

   NHTSA complaint 11766274
3. Filed Sep 13, 2026Failure Sep 3, 2026Sugar Hill, GAEngine, Power train, Steering

   2021 Toyota RAV4 gas XXX Vehicle suddenly stopped while driving Busy roadway in [XXX] Wife and young children were passengers Dashboard displayed “ENGINE STOPPED” Dashboard displayed “STEERING POWER LOW” Police responded Police determined waiting for the insurance tow was unsafe Police arranged emergency towing Vehicle subsequently inspected by Beaver Toyota Dealer drove approximately 26 miles attempting to reproduce the issue No fault code/history found Problem could not be reproduced You remain concerned about a potentially recurring safety defect INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11763945
4. Filed Sep 13, 2026Failure Jul 3, 2026Broomfield, COUnknown or other

   I am reporting a serious safety concern involving the sunroof glass on my 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD. On July 3, 2026, at approximately 37,350 miles, I was driving the vehicle when the entire sunroof glass suddenly and catastrophically shattered. There was no traffic around me, there was no debris in the roadway, I was not traveling under an overpass, and I am not aware of any impact or other event that could have caused the glass to break. The failure was completely unexpected. I heard a very, very loud sound, similar to a gunshot. Immediately afterward, the entire sunroof glass had shattered into small granules. A very small piece of shattered glass also flew off the vehicle. I was able to quickly close the interior sunroof visor, which fortunately prevented the majority of the shattered glass from falling into the passenger compartment and prevented injury. There was nevertheless some glass that fell into the roof liner. I immediately contacted my insurance company and the car was towed to my Toyota dealership. The sunroof was replaced with a Toyota original part and the replacement was paid by my insurance company. This incident created a significant safety hazard because the sunroof glass failed suddenly and violently while the vehicle was being driven. The extremely loud explosion-like sound and the sudden loss of the sunroof glass could cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle or could result in glass striking occupants. In this instance, I was fortunate that the visor was closed quickly and that there was no surrounding traffic. I believe NHTSA should investigate whether there is a defect or other safety-related problem with the sunroof glass or its installation in this vehicle, particularly if similar spontaneous breakage incidents have occurred in other Toyota RAV4 vehicles. I am reporting this incident because the glass appeared to fail spontaneously, without an apparent collision, road debris, overpass, or other external impact.

   NHTSA complaint 11763943
5. Filed Sep 5, 2026Failure Sep 5, 2026Winchester, VAElectrical system, Engine, Unknown or other

   I have a faulty coolant bypass valve on my 2021 Toyota RAV4. Every time I turn on the air conditioning the service engine required comes up on my notifications a known recall problem for Toyota RAV4’s of this year

   NHTSA complaint 11762309
6. Filed Aug 17, 2026Failure Aug 16, 2026Feeding Hills, MAElectrical system, Engine, Power train

   2021 Toyota RAV4 (gas model) has experienced a sudden, unexpected engine stall/shutdown on a public road. The incident occurred while shifting into Drive after backing up in reverse. The engine immediately died without any prior dashboard warning lights or mechanical symptoms. The information screen displayed a message stating "Put Car in Park" or "Shift into Park." The vehicle safely restarted immediately after shifting back into Park and pressing the ignition button. This intermittent stall has happened three times under the exact same directional shifting conditions over the last 1.5 years, creating a high-risk scenario for a rear-end collision in active traffic. After previous incident (one year ago) when the engine stopped when shifting from reverse to drive, I took it to Toyota service. Dealership diagnostics could not previously replicate the issue due to its intermittent nature and the absence of a permanent check engine code. checked battery and performed health check.

   NHTSA complaint 11757462
7. Filed Aug 10, 2026Failure Aug 10, 2026Chicago, ILSeats

   The driver’s seat adjustment mechanism failed and the seat became stuck, unable to move forward or backward. We initially went to a Toyota dealership and told them we believed the issue was a broken gear in the seat rail assembly. The dealership stated they needed to complete their own diagnostic assessment before proceeding, which would cost approximately $275 and add delay, despite already being told the likely cause. We instead took the vehicle to an independent mechanic, who confirmed the cause was a broken gear/synchronizing mechanism in the seat rail assembly. The mechanic confirmed that Toyota is the only source for this replacement part — it is not available from third-party or aftermarket suppliers — and has ordered the part directly from Toyota, at a cost of approximately $1,500, to install himself. This creates a safety risk because the driver is unable to adjust the seat position to reach the pedals and steering wheel properly, and cannot reposition the seat in the event of an emergency requiring rapid exit from the vehicle. Seating position also affects airbag deployment safety, since proper occupant positioning relative to the airbag is a factor in crash protection. There were no dashboard warning lights or error messages prior to the failure. The seat simply stopped moving on one side during normal, everyday adjustment. This appears to be a widespread and recurring issue rather than an isolated incident. Numerous other owners of 2019–2024 Toyota RAV4 vehicles have reported the identical failure — a broken gear in the seat rail mechanism — on Toyota owner forums and online community discussions, many describing the same high repair cost tied to the fact that only Toyota sells the necessary part. The vehicle is a 2021 Toyota RAV4 with approximately 56,000 miles at the time of failure. The component is available for inspection upon request.

   NHTSA complaint 11756026
8. Filed Jul 31, 2026Failure Jul 31, 2026Woodland Hills, CASeats, Defroster/defogger/hvac system

   The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front driver’s seat became stuck. No warning lights were illuminated. The failure reoccurred on several occasions. The contact stated that water was leaking into the vehicle from the front driver’s and passenger sides, causing puddles of water in the front driver’s and passenger’s seats with an abnormal odor. The contact stated that the leak was near the bolts and screws. The failure reoccurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who advised that the water leak could not be repaired and that the condition was unsafe. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the A/C system and several other unknown components needed to be replaced. The dealer stated that the vehicle was out of warranty. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

   NHTSA complaint 11753992
9. Filed Jul 28, 2026Failure Feb 1, 2026Casselberry, FLElectronic lock/latch actuator

   The driver side door actuator will not work, car is only five years old. Door will not unlock from fob, door unlock button or app. Began with a few random instances of not unlocking then turned into never unlocking again. Would have to climb through the passenger side to manually unlock by pushing switch. Got the actuator replaced but now car will not allow opening from inside, have to climb out of passenger door. This is a major safety concern as being unable to open a door in an emergency can be life threatening. The problem was reproduced and repair quoted by dealership. Problem was also reproduced by local mechanic and part replaced by them. Component inspected by manufacturer. The only warning was it sometimes not working, this began a few months back around February 2026.

   NHTSA complaint 11753378
10. Filed Jul 23, 2026Failure Jul 15, 202660,000 milesMadison, NJEngine, Vehicle speed control

    The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle aggressively accelerated while the accelerator pedal was depressed. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and remained with the dealer for additional diagnostic tests. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11752373
11. Filed Jul 23, 2026Failure May 1, 2026Fort Worth, TXEngine, Power train, Unknown or other

    My 2021 Toyota RAV4 began experiencing intermittent shuddering and vibration at low speeds around May 2026. The condition occurred while accelerating from a stop or at slow speeds and became more frequent over time. Because the problem was intermittent, the dealership was initially unable to duplicate it. Independent inspection later found dark transmission fluid containing metal debris, indicating internal transmission failure. I was informed the transmission requires replacement or rebuild. My vehicle has approximately 94,000 miles, which is well below the expected service life of a modern transmission. The symptoms are consistent with numerous reported complaints involving Toyota’s UA80 automatic transmission and torque converter. An unexpected loss of smooth power delivery or hesitation during acceleration creates a potential safety risk, particularly when entering traffic or crossing intersections. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can investigate as this is a very dangerous and concearning issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11752345
12. Filed Jul 17, 2026Failure Jul 16, 2026Eagle, COUnknown or other

    The sunroof exploded spontaneously while I was driving. It sounded like a gunshot. There were no other vehicles around, so it wasn't caused by a stray rock. It was only 73 degrees, so I don't think it was heat related.

    NHTSA complaint 11751099
13. Filed Jul 4, 2026Failure Dec 20, 2023Rio Rancho, NMAir bags

    I have been unable to get my vehicle inspected and repaired by a dealer despite months of waiting and asking two different Toyota dealers to order the necessary part or parts. This recall has been in place for years. For several years I was told it was only being done in certain states and that New Mexico would be last on list due to climate. Probably six months ago the message changed from Toyota and it was now ok in every state. Only problem is still no parts according to dealer. Last contact was on June 2, 2026 with the second dealer to order part. No call back and no contact. First effort was in Santa Fe NM where car was purchased new in 2021at Toyota dealer. Last effort over a month ago was at Albuquerque Larry Miller Toyota. So safety recall for faulty air bag sensor on my wife's side of car has been in place about 900 days without parts to fix a potentially deadly problem. VERY DANGEROUS

    NHTSA complaint 11748297
14. Filed Jun 22, 2026Failure Jun 23, 2025Wesley Chapel, FLUnknown or other

    What component or system failed, and is it available for inspection? The roof/water sealing system failed, allowing water to enter the vehicle interior. It is available for inspection upon request. How was safety put at risk? Water intrusion through the roof caused visible mold growth, interior deterioration, and a severe foul odor. The mold and contamination inside the vehicle is causing constant illness to the occupant, creating a serious ongoing health and safety hazard. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or service center? The vehicle was brought to a service center for inspection, however they refused to inspect it. The problem has not been formally confirmed. Has the vehicle been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance, or others? The vehicle was taken in for inspection but the dealer/service center declined to inspect it. No manufacturer, police, or insurance inspection has taken place. Were there warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to failure? When did they first appear? No warning lamps or messages appeared. The symptoms that developed include: Water entering through the roof Visible mold growth Interior deterioration Severe foul odor described as "rotten rat" smell Occupant experiencing constant illness due to exposure

    NHTSA complaint 11745546
15. Filed Jun 20, 2026Failure Jun 19, 2026Mcdonald, PAElectronic lock/latch actuator

    The front driver-side door lock and opener (actuator) stopped working using the key fob and needs to be manually locked from the inside. When I try to access the door after manually locking driver side and using my key fob for the remaining 3 locks, the unit won't automatically open. This causes a safety risk considering I need to access the driver's side back or front passenger side to open the door. According to what I've read this is a known issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11745416
16. Filed Jun 10, 2026Failure Mar 1, 2026Lantana, FLElectronic lock/latch actuator

    Passenger front door actuator\lock mechanism does not lock/unlock the door. There have been numerous lawsuits and yet NO RECALL for this very dangerous known problem. Please advise if there is any assistance from Toyota available to cure this defect that is well known to exist. I can be reached @ [XXX]. Thank you in advance for your assistance, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11743327
17. Filed Jun 9, 2026Failure May 22, 202662,000 milesHouston, TXAir bagsCrash1 injured

    The contact owns a 2021 Toyota RAV4. The contact was traveling at approximately 50 MPH directly behind a van in the same lane of traffic. The van suddenly made an emergency avoidance maneuver to bypass a stationary vehicle completely stopped in the lane. Despite the attempt, the van rear-ended the stopped vehicle. The contact immediately initiated an evasive maneuver to avoid the sudden collision occurring ahead. However, due to proximity and immediate lane obstruction, the contact was unable to avoid an impact and struck the vehicle. The severe front-end impact resulted in catastrophic damage to the contact's vehicle before it came to a complete stop. The airbags failed to deploy, and no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a repair shop. A police report was filed. The driver and her pet were the only occupants of the vehicle, and the contact was the only injured passenger. The contact sustained moderate chest pain, but no medical assistance was received. A police report was filed. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 62,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11742969
18. Filed Jun 2, 2026Failure Jun 2, 2026Pelzer, SCVisibility/wiper

    was driving on 4 lane hwy and it was raining and my wipers stopped working mid-way on windshield, I had to find a safe place to pull off road and inspect the problem i tried turning car off and back on and wipers would still not work. I drove another 3 miles or so to the Toyota dealership luckily with no accident which made me feel very unsafe without my wipers. They told me i would have to leave car for them to take panel off to find the cause of failure and provided a loaner after i refused an Uber.

    NHTSA complaint 11741647
19. Filed Jun 1, 2026Failure Dec 27, 2023Fords, NJAir bags

    The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number 23V865000 (Airbags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was/was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was/was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.  The VIN was invalid./The VIN was not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11741263
20. Filed May 27, 2026Failure May 1, 2026Des Moines, IALock, Power train

    Gear shift makes noise when moving it, as in you can actually hear the gears/electrical equipment moving and making noise when going from park to drive. The keyless entry when the fob is near, just doesn't work well from the drivers side... I can stand there trying to allow it to unlock and it just locks again or wont unlock the passenger door even if allowing it extra time to.

    NHTSA complaint 11740401