Owners have filed 279 complaints
about the 2014 Toyota RAV4 with NHTSA between 2014 and 2026.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 18 of 30 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 34
Against the median year of the Toyota RAV4. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
36.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 79
47% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
106.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
2315.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
2013.5%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
3322.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2516.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
128.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1610.8%
150,000+ miles
96.1%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2014 Toyota Rav4 SUV AWD
16.9% risk
2014 Toyota Rav4 SUV FWD
17.4% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
May 2014peak 9Aug 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2014 Toyota RAV4
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE21005Opened 25 Feb 2021Closed 12 Aug 2024ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Battery Hold Down Bracket Thermal Events
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to understand the contributing factors and frequency of vehicle fires originating from the battery region of the engine compartment in Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles on 25 February 2021. At the time of opening, ODI attributed eleven allegations and additional EWR events to this PE. PE21005 focused on replacement batteries installed in the subject vehicles. No reported fire event identified in PE21005 involved the originally supplied 12V battery. The reported fires took place in vehicles known to cont...
Recalls on the 2014 Toyota RAV4
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
23V734000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
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.
Risk: A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
15V144000
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2015 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid, and 2014-2015 Rav4 vehicles. A component of the electric power steering (EPS) electronic control unit (ECU) may have been damaged during the manufacturing process. Over time, this damage may result in failure of the electric power steering system.
Risk: An unexpected loss of power steering increases the risk of a crash.
15V011000
TRAILER HITCHES
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Toyota Rav4 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2013, to December 29, 2014, and equipped with an accessory trailer light module. The software within the module may incorrectly detect an electrical short and preventively turn off the electrical current and the trailer lights.
Risk: If the system incorrectly detects an electrical short and turns off the trailer lights while the trailer is being towed at night, there is an increased risk of a crash.
14V828000
EQUIPMENT
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, RAV4, Scion FRS, and XB vehicles. The affected vehicles may have accessories installed by SET, such as running boards or other items, that were incorrectly installed. The accessory attaching fasteners were not tightened with the proper torque, possibly causing the accessory to detach from the vehicle.
Risk: Accessories that detach from a vehicle may result in a vehicle crash and/or personal injury.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2023589249,416 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: On certain vehicles, the battery hold-down assembly may not properly secure certain 12 V aftermarket batteries. As a result, the battery could shift positions and cause the positive battery post to contact the hold down bracket. If this happens, there could be a short circuit. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover.
Recall 202172355,683 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: This recall is for certain block heater kits installed on certain vehicles or sold as accessories at Toyota or Lexus dealerships. On certain vehicles, the engine block heater cable may not have enough heat protection and could be damaged by high temperatures. If this happens, the cable could short circuit while plugged in, and cause the wiring to overheat or melt. Note: This recall only affects the following block heater/cord part numbers: C014003034 PK5A408J09 PU14000904 C014003151 PK5A408J13 PU14000905 C014000885 PK5A489J11 PU14000907 C014000888 PK5A489J22 PU14000909 C014000907 PK5A410H00 PU14000911 C014100904 PU14000900 PU14000913 C014100907 PU14000901 PU14003571 C014100911 PU14000902 PK5A489J14 PK5A408J05 PU14000903 Safety Risk: Engine block heater wiring that overheats or melts could create the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: Toyota recommends that you should stop using the engine block heater immediately. Toyota will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to disable the engine block heater. For some vehicles, the corrective actions for this recall are under development. For others, a new engine block heater cannot be installed, and the owner will receive a refund of the purchase price of the engine block heater.
Recall 2019428327,373 units in Canada
Accessories
Issue: On certain vehicles, the hook and loop material used to attach the carpet to its underpadding may not be flame resistant. As a result, when it is tested alone, the loop fasteners do not meet the requirements of Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: As the carpet is always assembled, and the loop fasteners are very small, this problem does not create a safety risk. Corrective Action: This is not a recall. The company has made production changes to ensure that all new vehicles meet the requirements of Canadian regulations.
Recall 20194205,327 units in Canada
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.
Recall 201510312,043 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the circuit board for the electric power steering electronic control unit may be damaged. A damaged circuit board could result in sudden loss of steering power assist and would trigger a warning lamp to illuminate. A vehicle experiencing a loss of steering power assist would revert to a manual steering mode which would require greater driver effort, especially at low vehicle speeds. A loss of steering power assist could ultimately result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace inspect the electric power steering electronic control unit and, if affected, replace the electronic control unit with a new one.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Lakeland, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
Request for Investigation – 2014 Toyota RAV4 Airbag Non-Deployment On [XXX], at approximately [XXX]., the vehicle was involved in a traffic collision in Lakeland, Florida. The vehicle sustained a significant impact to the driver’s-side front area. Despite the nature and location of the collision, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags did not deploy. Law enforcement responded to the scene and completed Police Report. Emergency medical services also responded, and the driver was transported from the scene by ambulance due to injuries sustained in the collision. The primary concern is whether the airbag system, including the crash sensors and SRS components, functioned as designed during this crash. Based on the impact, I am seeking an investigation into whether the non-deployment of the airbags was the result of a defect or malfunction. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this incident, document it within its vehicle safety database, and determine whether similar complaints involving 2014 Toyota RAV4 vehicles exist that may indicate a broader safety concern warranting further investigation. Supporting documentation, including photographs of the vehicle damage, the police report, and any other relevant records, can be provided upon request. Thank you for your attention to this important vehicle safety matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakeland, FLCrash1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
Request for Investigation – 2014 Toyota RAV4 Airbag Non-Deployment On [XXX], at approximately [XXX]., the vehicle was involved in a traffic collision in Lakeland, Florida. The vehicle sustained a significant impact to the driver’s-side front area. Despite the nature and location of the collision, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags did not deploy. Law enforcement responded to the scene and completed Police Report. Emergency medical services also responded, and the driver was transported from the scene by ambulance due to injuries sustained in the collision. The primary concern is whether the airbag system, including the crash sensors and SRS components, functioned as designed during this crash. Based on the impact, I am seeking an investigation into whether the non-deployment of the airbags was the result of a defect or malfunction. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this incident, document it within its vehicle safety database, and determine whether similar complaints involving 2014 Toyota RAV4 vehicles exist that may indicate a broader safety concern warranting further investigation. Supporting documentation, including photographs of the vehicle damage, the police report, and any other relevant records, can be provided upon request. Thank you for your attention to this important vehicle safety matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plano, TXCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
I was in a car accident and the side and steering airbags deployed. While the main steering airbag deflated successfully following the accident, the driver's side door side airbag never deflated. Once I was trying to get out of the car and had the door open, this meant it was much harder and took longer to get out as I had to slide out from underneath it. Because I wasn't able to get out quickly, I remained in a car in direct line of traffic with my driver's side door where it would have been hit first putting me in more danger.
NHTSA complaint #11721674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dorchester, MAFire
ENGINE
The contact owned a 2014 Toyota RAV4. The contact stated that while driving at 30-40 MPH, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle stopped independently. No warning lights illuminated. The contact mentioned she noticed smoke and flames coming from the engine, and smoke started coming inside the vehicle. There was a fuel odor. present. The contact exited the vehicle and stood on the side of the road, and called 911. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was required. A police report was filed. The fire department extinguished the fire. The vehicle was destroyed. The vehicle was towed to an unknown location. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact mentioned days prior to the battery warning light illuminating, and the battery was determined to be functioning as normal; therefore, the vehicle was resumed to be driven as normal. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown
NHTSA complaint #11684519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Capitan, NMFire1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2014 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at 45-50 MPH during night hours, a fellow motorist alerted the contact that her vehicle had caught fire from underneath the engine without warning. Upon opening the front, driver-side door, the fire entered the vehicle and the contact quickly shut the door. While in a panic, the contact re-opened the door and jumped out of the vehicle. The vehicle quickly became engulfed in flames and was consumed by the fire. Police arrived at the scene and a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent tow yard and was deemed a total loss. The road was scorched as a result of the fire which led to the road being repaved. The contact injured both knees and left baby finger after jumping out of the vehicle; the contact also suffered emotional distress due to the fire. The contact did not seek medical attention for her injuries. The dealer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. Recently, the contact received a recall notice for NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System) which she linked to the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11637992 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pittsboro, NCFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact's daughter owns a 2014 Toyota RAV4. The contact stated that while the daughter was driving at 35 MPH, smoke was coming from under the hood and the vehicle lost automotive power. The contact stated that the failure occurred while driving downhill, however, the vehicle was coasted to the local fire department, which was on the same street. The fire department extinguished the fire. The contact stated that a fire report was filed. The contact stated that there were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was confirmed that the failure was due to the unrepaired recall repair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V734000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
NHTSA complaint #11618763 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Hartland, WI
STEERING
We purchased a used 2014 RAV4 (VIN [XXX]) a few months ago. During a trip to the store my wife all of a sudden found it extremely hard to steer and almost went into a ditch! (thank God she didn't). It was a blessing that she didn't hit anything or anybody when this happened. It was close to home at the time so I came there to help. I was barely able to get the vehicle home because it was so hard to steer. I saw the power steering warning light on the dash and upon further review figured out that the electric power steering (EPS) electronic control unit (ECU) which assists with ease of steering, has failed. I Googled the issue for my vehicle and it turns out there is a safety recall for failure of the ESP ECU on the 2014 model year RAV4. However, when I entered our VIN into the system, our particular RAV4's VIN apparently isn't one that falls into those that are covered by the NHTSA Campaign 15V144000 recall. With this ESP ECU failure being the exact part that the 15V144000 recall is for, I tried contacting Toyota Customer Experience Center at [XXX] to see if they would authorize the repair in light of this failure being the same as those VINs that are covered under the recall. They declined to authorize the repair. Chiante told me that "Toyota likely would have covered this repair if the vehicle had been serviced at Toyota dealerships throughout its life". The ESP ECU board either works or it doesn't and it was working when we bought the vehicle and now it doesn't. This is a SIGNIFICANT SAFETY HAZARD and the vehicle is NOT safe to drive with this ESP ECU failure. It is estimated to cost $1,500 or more to repair and that is about 15% of what the car is worth! Aside from not being able to afford this repair on our own, this ESP ECU failure is exactly the same issue as other 2014 RAV4s but Toyota is refusing to cover the repair because our VIN isn't in the list. How can NHTSA assist with resolving this issue? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)
NHTSA complaint #11756948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakeland, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
Request for Investigation – 2014 Toyota RAV4 Airbag Non-Deployment On [XXX], at approximately [XXX]., the vehicle was involved in a traffic collision in Lakeland, Florida. The vehicle sustained a significant impact to the driver’s-side front area. Despite the nature and location of the collision, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags did not deploy. Law enforcement responded to the scene and completed Police Report. Emergency medical services also responded, and the driver was transported from the scene by ambulance due to injuries sustained in the collision. The primary concern is whether the airbag system, including the crash sensors and SRS components, functioned as designed during this crash. Based on the impact, I am seeking an investigation into whether the non-deployment of the airbags was the result of a defect or malfunction. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this incident, document it within its vehicle safety database, and determine whether similar complaints involving 2014 Toyota RAV4 vehicles exist that may indicate a broader safety concern warranting further investigation. Supporting documentation, including photographs of the vehicle damage, the police report, and any other relevant records, can be provided upon request. Thank you for your attention to this important vehicle safety matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakeland, FLCrash1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
Request for Investigation – 2014 Toyota RAV4 Airbag Non-Deployment On [XXX], at approximately [XXX]., the vehicle was involved in a traffic collision in Lakeland, Florida. The vehicle sustained a significant impact to the driver’s-side front area. Despite the nature and location of the collision, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags did not deploy. Law enforcement responded to the scene and completed Police Report. Emergency medical services also responded, and the driver was transported from the scene by ambulance due to injuries sustained in the collision. The primary concern is whether the airbag system, including the crash sensors and SRS components, functioned as designed during this crash. Based on the impact, I am seeking an investigation into whether the non-deployment of the airbags was the result of a defect or malfunction. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this incident, document it within its vehicle safety database, and determine whether similar complaints involving 2014 Toyota RAV4 vehicles exist that may indicate a broader safety concern warranting further investigation. Supporting documentation, including photographs of the vehicle damage, the police report, and any other relevant records, can be provided upon request. Thank you for your attention to this important vehicle safety matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesOntario, CA
STEERING
The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4. While driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to turn, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The failure was intermittent. The failure lasted for several seconds before the power steering feature returned, and the vehicle returned to normal operation and the warning lights were no longer illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and the contact received an estimate for a diagnostic test. Upon further investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V373000 (Steering); and associated the failure with the recall; however, the manufacturer confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. No additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754570 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lemont, IL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am filing a complaint regarding Toyota’s handling of a known paint defect affecting my 2014 Toyota RAV4 Limited in Blizzard Pearl paint. Over the past several years, the paint on my vehicle has progressively peeled and deteriorated. Approximately 50% of the vehicle’s paint is now damaged. This issue is clearly consistent with Toyota’s known Blizzard Pearl paint defect program. However, I was never notified by Toyota about this defect program through mail, email, or phone call. In addition, I regularly serviced my vehicle at authorized Toyota dealerships during the years the program was active, yet no dealership or Toyota representative informed me that my vehicle qualified for repair coverage. I only recently learned about the existence of this program after visiting a Toyota dealership regarding another issue. At that time, I was told the program had already expired in April 2024 and that Toyota would no longer provide assistance. I believe this is unfair because: - Toyota acknowledged this as a manufacturing-related defect. - I was never properly notified. - Toyota dealerships had multiple opportunities to inform me during regular service visits. - The defect became progressively worse over time. I am requesting that Toyota reconsider my case and provide goodwill assistance or repair coverage despite the expiration date, due to the lack of notification and the severity of the defect. Toyota Brand Engagement Center still told me the recall expiated.
NHTSA complaint #11737937 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Phoenix, AZ
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My vehicle's factory applied paint which is Blizzard Pear 070 is failing and peeling on entire vehicle in multiple areas including roof, hood, interior doors, side panels, and rear door. This started as chipping back in 2019 and then peeling around late 2019 and has progressively gotten worse with even being garaged. This is a know issue acknowledge by Toyota customer support program that has since expired. The paint is delaminating down to the primer with bare metal exposed. Yes it is available for inspection and actually had my local Toyota dealer who I purchased from take pictures last month and tell me the peeling paint is from the know manufacture defect. This is a could pose a safety risk as peeling paint can detach while driving and and also the exposed metal is susceptible to corrosion which could lend to body panels deterioration over time. Toyato manufacturer was contacted and I was told the customer support warranty is expired. Although Toyato said they sent out recall noticed I never received them. Back in 2019 I approached the dealership service dept with issue but they didn't document it and at the time told me it was general wear and tear. Now Toyato manufacturer is not standing behind it. They dealership also told me there are many others having the same issue when I took my car in to get assessed. If there are this many people Toyato should stand behind the paint defect and extend the opportunity for it to be fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11735636 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Levittown, PA
POWER TRAIN
UPDATE TO PRIOR COMPLAINT — Filed April 2, 2026. VIN: [XXX] . 2014 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE. Team Toyota Langhorne, 746 E Lincoln Hwy, Langhorne PA 19047. Vehicle remains out of service — 53 days as of April 10, 2026. SECOND REPLACEMENT VEHICLE — April 4-5, 2026: Dealership presented 2014 RAV4 VIN [XXX] as replacement. Upon visual inspection: valve cover leaking; blue silicone sealant on valve cover applied unevenly indicating prior engine disassembly or concealed active oil leak; catalytic converter flanges rotted top to rear requiring full replacement; oil on bottom of motor. Photographs available. Dealership declined to repair at estimated cost of $2,500 — April 6, 2026. DEALER RESOLUTION FAILED — April 7, 2026: Bill Sullivan, Pre-Owned Sales Director, offered buyback or trade. Both rejected as inadequate. No resolution provided. Two defective replacement vehicles presented — neither acceptable. Cases: [XXX] / [XXX] / [XXX] [XXX] — [XXX] — [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11730513 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Levittown, PA
SERVICE BRAKES
UPDATE TO PRIOR COMPLAINT — Filed April 2, 2026. VIN: [XXX] . 2014 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE. Team Toyota Langhorne, 746 E Lincoln Hwy, Langhorne PA 19047. Vehicle remains out of service — 53 days as of April 10, 2026. SECOND REPLACEMENT VEHICLE — April 4-5, 2026: Dealership presented 2014 RAV4 VIN [XXX] as replacement. Upon visual inspection: valve cover leaking; blue silicone sealant on valve cover applied unevenly indicating prior engine disassembly or concealed active oil leak; catalytic converter flanges rotted top to rear requiring full replacement; oil on bottom of motor. Photographs available. Dealership declined to repair at estimated cost of $2,500 — April 6, 2026. DEALER RESOLUTION FAILED — April 7, 2026: Bill Sullivan, Pre-Owned Sales Director, offered buyback or trade. Both rejected as inadequate. No resolution provided. Two defective replacement vehicles presented — neither acceptable. Cases: [XXX] / [XXX] / [XXX] [XXX] — [XXX] — [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11730513 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Levittown, PA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
UPDATE TO PRIOR COMPLAINT — Filed April 2, 2026. VIN: [XXX] . 2014 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE. Team Toyota Langhorne, 746 E Lincoln Hwy, Langhorne PA 19047. Vehicle remains out of service — 53 days as of April 10, 2026. SECOND REPLACEMENT VEHICLE — April 4-5, 2026: Dealership presented 2014 RAV4 VIN [XXX] as replacement. Upon visual inspection: valve cover leaking; blue silicone sealant on valve cover applied unevenly indicating prior engine disassembly or concealed active oil leak; catalytic converter flanges rotted top to rear requiring full replacement; oil on bottom of motor. Photographs available. Dealership declined to repair at estimated cost of $2,500 — April 6, 2026. DEALER RESOLUTION FAILED — April 7, 2026: Bill Sullivan, Pre-Owned Sales Director, offered buyback or trade. Both rejected as inadequate. No resolution provided. Two defective replacement vehicles presented — neither acceptable. Cases: [XXX] / [XXX] / [XXX] [XXX] — [XXX] — [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11730513 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Levittown, PA
POWER TRAIN
2014 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE purchased June 2025. Multiple pre-existing safety defects confirmed by dealership personnel were never disclosed at time of sale. POWER TRAIN: Torque converter failure — vibration documented at pre-sale inspection, never disclosed or diagnosed. Axle bracket corroded so severely it was fused to axle and required cutting off — confirmed by service advisor on recorded call. BRAKES: Aftermarket brake parts installed pre-sale without disclosure. Brake system rated RED by dealership within 9,734 miles of purchase. Severe brake pedal pulsation confirmed on multiple invoices. ODY/STRUCTURE: Severe underbody and structural corrosion — subframe, crossmembers, fuel tank surfaces — never disclosed. Swollen lug nuts documented. Prior welded exhaust repair undisclosed. Exhaust flange separation and catalytic converter failure — repair quote $4,745. SEAT BELT: Rock found lodged in seat belt buckle — safety restraint failure — not noted on pre-sale inspection. RECALL 23V734000 / 23TA13: Aftermarket battery used as recall remedy — OEM replacement required — non-compliant — fire risk not disclosed at sale. All defects confirmed by dealership invoices, MPI video, and recorded calls. Vehicle out of service since February 2026. Complete documentation available.
NHTSA complaint #11728692 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Levittown, PA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2014 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE purchased June 2025. Multiple pre-existing safety defects confirmed by dealership personnel were never disclosed at time of sale. POWER TRAIN: Torque converter failure — vibration documented at pre-sale inspection, never disclosed or diagnosed. Axle bracket corroded so severely it was fused to axle and required cutting off — confirmed by service advisor on recorded call. BRAKES: Aftermarket brake parts installed pre-sale without disclosure. Brake system rated RED by dealership within 9,734 miles of purchase. Severe brake pedal pulsation confirmed on multiple invoices. ODY/STRUCTURE: Severe underbody and structural corrosion — subframe, crossmembers, fuel tank surfaces — never disclosed. Swollen lug nuts documented. Prior welded exhaust repair undisclosed. Exhaust flange separation and catalytic converter failure — repair quote $4,745. SEAT BELT: Rock found lodged in seat belt buckle — safety restraint failure — not noted on pre-sale inspection. RECALL 23V734000 / 23TA13: Aftermarket battery used as recall remedy — OEM replacement required — non-compliant — fire risk not disclosed at sale. All defects confirmed by dealership invoices, MPI video, and recorded calls. Vehicle out of service since February 2026. Complete documentation available.
NHTSA complaint #11728692 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Levittown, PA
SERVICE BRAKES
2014 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE purchased June 2025. Multiple pre-existing safety defects confirmed by dealership personnel were never disclosed at time of sale. POWER TRAIN: Torque converter failure — vibration documented at pre-sale inspection, never disclosed or diagnosed. Axle bracket corroded so severely it was fused to axle and required cutting off — confirmed by service advisor on recorded call. BRAKES: Aftermarket brake parts installed pre-sale without disclosure. Brake system rated RED by dealership within 9,734 miles of purchase. Severe brake pedal pulsation confirmed on multiple invoices. ODY/STRUCTURE: Severe underbody and structural corrosion — subframe, crossmembers, fuel tank surfaces — never disclosed. Swollen lug nuts documented. Prior welded exhaust repair undisclosed. Exhaust flange separation and catalytic converter failure — repair quote $4,745. SEAT BELT: Rock found lodged in seat belt buckle — safety restraint failure — not noted on pre-sale inspection. RECALL 23V734000 / 23TA13: Aftermarket battery used as recall remedy — OEM replacement required — non-compliant — fire risk not disclosed at sale. All defects confirmed by dealership invoices, MPI video, and recorded calls. Vehicle out of service since February 2026. Complete documentation available.
NHTSA complaint #11728692 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plano, TXCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
I was in a car accident and the side and steering airbags deployed. While the main steering airbag deflated successfully following the accident, the driver's side door side airbag never deflated. Once I was trying to get out of the car and had the door open, this meant it was much harder and took longer to get out as I had to slide out from underneath it. Because I wasn't able to get out quickly, I remained in a car in direct line of traffic with my driver's side door where it would have been hit first putting me in more danger.
NHTSA complaint #11721674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pawtucket, RI
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
All four of my door lock actuators are not working properly. All four usually don’t work, however once in a great while they will actually lock or unlock. This is a big safety issue because when I think they lock, they don’t. When I drive at night with my daughter in the backseat I do not feel safe. I always have to check all 4 doors a couple times, because sometimes they will unlock but not lock. Also note that they do not work all at the same time. It always varies by the day. I was going to pay for them to be fixed myself, but it was too costly.
NHTSA complaint #11721326 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,000 milesStockbridge, GA
STEERING
The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 MPH and turning right at an intersection, the steering wheel seized with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact completed the turn, and the steering wheel started functioning normally, and the warning lights were no longer illuminated. The failure reoccurred while making a right turn. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall related to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact had stopped driving the vehicle. After researching online, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V373000 (Steering): however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
NHTSA complaint #11719827 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Germantown, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BATTERY DIED MID-DRIVE NOW THE RADIO HEAD UNIT IS IN A BOOT LOOP RENDERING ALL FUNCTIONS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11711594 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Delta, OH
ENGINE
1) Vehicle had a recall for something concerning the transmission. Service was done and just after the warranty expired on that issue the transmission went out while driving and I had to put a new one in the vehicle, Toyota did help with $1500 of the cost but it cost me out of pocket over $4000. 2) For the last 2 years the car has been burning oil excessively, I have to put a quart of oil in almost every week. Now the vehicle out of the blue will start shaking and all the warning lights come on and I have to be able to pull over. I no longer can drive on the highway in fear this could happen. I am now being told I need a new or rebuild engine. I seen online that others have had this problem and there was a Class Action Law suit several years ago. What are the chances a Toyota Rav4 would need a transmission and now a engine.
NHTSA complaint #11699167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,000 milesArlington, TX
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4. The contact’s son stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start and became inoperable, and lost power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.
NHTSA complaint #11699219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brighton, MI
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Headlight Brightness - it's been degrading for the last 10 yrs to the point that I don't feel safe driving in the dark anymore. I've already had the lenses buffed out, but that only helped about 20%. The brightness looks like I have a dead battery (it's brand new). Not sure if this is a bulb or lens issue but it's not safe.
NHTSA complaint #11697142 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Whitethorn, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Lift gate struts quit working.The lift gate is no longer is accessible or responsive to the proximity key commands to open or close, even after changing proximity key batteries. You cannot open the lift gate by hand because of the resistance of the hydrolics of the struts. I have complained to Toyota, and the dealership where it was purchased. Both said they would contact me if there was a recall and suggested I file a complaint, which I am doing now. The is a huge inconvenience when grocery shopping, or traveling to spot events, or trying to get the dog to the vet. Luckily I don't use a wheelchair yet. I'm very late in filing this complaint, as the liftgate failure took place in April of 2021. I cannot afford to get them replaced on my limited income. I'm just looking for a little help.
NHTSA complaint #11691021 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesOregon City, OR
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that during a rainstorm, rainwater leaked into the cabin of the vehicle from the A, B, C, and D pillars and the ceiling control center. The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced several times due to the failure, but the failure reoccurred. Additionally, the rear passenger side carpet was previously replaced due to excessive water entering the vehicle. The contact was concerned that the leaks were near the curtain air bag housing and might cause the air bags to malfunction. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11691031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sarasota, FL
STEERING
Year: 2014 Make: Toyota Model: RAV4 Approx. mileage: 60K 2. Incident Details Date of most recent incident: [XXX] Problem: Vehicle stalls and loses power steering while turning. Engine shuts off suddenly, causing complete loss of steering control. Consequence: On [XXX], my son lost control of the RAV4, hit a curb, and went through bushes before stopping. Previous stalls also occurred while turning, with loss of steering assist. This is a severe safety hazard. Frequency: Has occurred multiple times, even after dealership inspection and repairs. 3. Dealer/Repair Info Dealer name: Sarasota Toyota Address: 7435 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 Repair attempts: Dealer inspected in August 2025, charged nearly $900, but problem persists. Car is now back in the shop (not Toyota) for a second opinion at an additional cost of over $200. 4. Description My 2014 Toyota RAV4 repeatedly stalls and loses engine power and power steering without warning, especially while turning. On [XXX], my son lost control of the vehicle, hit a curb, and went through bushes before managing to stop. This is extremely dangerous and could have resulted in a serious accident. Sarasota Toyota has inspected the vehicle and charged nearly $900 for repairs, but the defect was not fixed. The vehicle continues to stall and is unsafe to drive. I am pursuing a second opinion at additional expense. This issue places my family and others on the road in danger. I am filing this complaint so that Toyota and regulators address this defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11688355 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sarasota, FL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Year: 2014 Make: Toyota Model: RAV4 Approx. mileage: 60K 2. Incident Details Date of most recent incident: [XXX] Problem: Vehicle stalls and loses power steering while turning. Engine shuts off suddenly, causing complete loss of steering control. Consequence: On [XXX], my son lost control of the RAV4, hit a curb, and went through bushes before stopping. Previous stalls also occurred while turning, with loss of steering assist. This is a severe safety hazard. Frequency: Has occurred multiple times, even after dealership inspection and repairs. 3. Dealer/Repair Info Dealer name: Sarasota Toyota Address: 7435 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 Repair attempts: Dealer inspected in August 2025, charged nearly $900, but problem persists. Car is now back in the shop (not Toyota) for a second opinion at an additional cost of over $200. 4. Description My 2014 Toyota RAV4 repeatedly stalls and loses engine power and power steering without warning, especially while turning. On [XXX], my son lost control of the vehicle, hit a curb, and went through bushes before managing to stop. This is extremely dangerous and could have resulted in a serious accident. Sarasota Toyota has inspected the vehicle and charged nearly $900 for repairs, but the defect was not fixed. The vehicle continues to stall and is unsafe to drive. I am pursuing a second opinion at additional expense. This issue places my family and others on the road in danger. I am filing this complaint so that Toyota and regulators address this defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11688355 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sarasota, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Year: 2014 Make: Toyota Model: RAV4 Approx. mileage: 60K 2. Incident Details Date of most recent incident: [XXX] Problem: Vehicle stalls and loses power steering while turning. Engine shuts off suddenly, causing complete loss of steering control. Consequence: On [XXX], my son lost control of the RAV4, hit a curb, and went through bushes before stopping. Previous stalls also occurred while turning, with loss of steering assist. This is a severe safety hazard. Frequency: Has occurred multiple times, even after dealership inspection and repairs. 3. Dealer/Repair Info Dealer name: Sarasota Toyota Address: 7435 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 Repair attempts: Dealer inspected in August 2025, charged nearly $900, but problem persists. Car is now back in the shop (not Toyota) for a second opinion at an additional cost of over $200. 4. Description My 2014 Toyota RAV4 repeatedly stalls and loses engine power and power steering without warning, especially while turning. On [XXX], my son lost control of the vehicle, hit a curb, and went through bushes before managing to stop. This is extremely dangerous and could have resulted in a serious accident. Sarasota Toyota has inspected the vehicle and charged nearly $900 for repairs, but the defect was not fixed. The vehicle continues to stall and is unsafe to drive. I am pursuing a second opinion at additional expense. This issue places my family and others on the road in danger. I am filing this complaint so that Toyota and regulators address this defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11688355 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesGreenback, TN
STEERING
The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that the power steering assist intermittently failed to operate as needed, with the maintenance warning light displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and a dealer however, there were no fault codes retrieved. The contact stated that while making a left turn onto a side road, the steering wheel seized, and excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the vehicle would reset itself. The failure intermittently persisted, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with a defective steering column. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V144000 (Steering); however, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11686288 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
