1,400 of the
12,161 complaints filed about the Toyota RAV4
are about the transmission —
12% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2002.
1,400
Complaints
12%
Share of all complaints
54
Crashes
6
Fires
Transmission & Drivetrain complaints by model year
The contact owns a 2024 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving approximately 2–4 MPH, the vehicle independently accelerated. The brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The vehicle was uncontrollable. The vehicle drove onto a sidewalk curb and crashed into a concrete post before coming to a stop. There was no damage to the concrete post. The contact stated that the front camera and traction malfunction error messages were displayed. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while the contact was driving in a parking lot and attempting to park the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a local collision shop. No Police report was filed. The contact sustained injuries to the upper chest from the impact and the seat belt. The contact had an upcoming appointment with the primary care physician. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 51,020.
NHTSA complaint #11758203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
**VEHICLE:** 2020 Toyota RAV4 LE **VIN:** [XXX] **CURRENT MILEAGE:** 126,776 miles **PURCHASE DATE:** October 2020 **COMPONENT:** Automatic Transmission (Power Train) **PROBLEM DESCRIPTION:** On XXX, I took my 2020 Toyota RAV4 LE to a transmission specialty shop (TJ'S Transmission Service Inc., Bedford, PA) because the automatic transmission was slipping while driving. The professional diagnosis (Invoice #XXX) confirmed the following stored fault codes: P2681, P2816, P08BA, P2713 The technician also confirmed that the transmission fluid was black and contained metal debris, indicating significant internal wear of clutch/band components. While researching these codes, I found that Toyota previously issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) T-SB-0160-18, titled "Transaxle Whine Noise, Harsh Shift, MIL ON, or Reduced Power," which acknowledges these SAME fault codes (P2816, P08BA, P2713, among others) as a known problem in the 8-speed automatic transmission (UA80/UB80 family, manufactured by Aisin). This TSB was officially issued only for the 2017-2018 Highlander and Sienna models, but the 2019 and later RAV4 uses the same transmission family (UB80E/UB80F) for the 2.5L engine, suggesting this is the same design or manufacturing defect that has not been officially acknowledged for this model. This issue represents a safety risk, as unexpected loss of power or transmission slippage while driving (for example, when merging onto a highway or passing) can create a dangerous situation for the driver and other vehicles on the road. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether a similar failure pattern exists in other 2019-2021 RAV4 vehicles equipped with this transmission, and that consideration be given to whether Toyota should extend coverage of TSB T-SB-0160-18 (or issue a specific one) to include the RAV4. No repair was performed at this time due to the high estimated cost without warranty coverage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11757837 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Toyota addresses a front transfer case issue (groan/buzzing noise) on certain 2019–2020 RAV4 AWD vehicles (specifically Adventure and Limited grades) through a Voluntary Emissions Recall / Customer Support Program (No. 20TE03) o
NHTSA complaint #11750703 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN - On XXX, at just 7,741 miles, my 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium AWD (VIN: [XXX]) suffered a catastrophic and life-threatening complete mechanical and hydraulic transmission failure. The vehicle completely lost forward propulsion when placed in Drive mode, rendering it entirely immobile. When placed in Reverse gear, the transmission violently over-pressurized, causing the vehicle to suddenly surge and jump uncontrollably. Simultaneously, the dashboard displayed 6 critical safety system failures: 1. Check Engine — electronic control malfunction 2. Vehicle Stability Control System (VSC/TRAC) malfunction 3. Secondary Collision Brake System malfunction 4. Pre-Collision System malfunction 5. Parking Brake System malfunction 6. Advanced Ultrasonic Detecting and Ranging System malfunction Ourisman Toyota Chantilly (RO# XXX) has confirmed complete transmission failure. Fault codes found: P28167F — Pressure Control Solenoid H Actuator Stuck Off, P08BA7F — Pressure Control Solenoid L Actuator Stuck Off. Estimated repair cost: $11,347.42. While this failure fortunately occurred on a local road, had it occurred while merging onto I-66 or I-95 at highway speeds, it would have inevitably caused a catastrophic high-speed collision. This represents an extreme manufacturing defect and life-threatening safety hazard. Toyota Corporate Cases opened: #XXX (original case) and #XXX (full replacement request). I am requesting full vehicle replacement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11744255 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The 8-speed automatic on my 2019 RAV4 (2.5L 4 Cyl) has been shifting super rough at lower speeds, to the point to where downshifts can send the revs into redline territory, but the car really doesn't move. No warning lights, passed state inspection, recently serviced. purchaced this car in Janurary with 50k miles on it and noticed it within a few weeks of driving. I am now at 57k and the issue is signifigantly worse than it was before. Will be taking it to Toyota soon. The safety issues arise when I do not know how the car is going to accelerate or respond to throttle input in traffic. I don't trust the car to handle any fast throttle input if I need to move out of the way quickly.
NHTSA complaint #11738293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Car makes a whining noise Toyota Pinellas park said it was normal but the transmission is jolting/slipping not accelerating vs the first test drive. Both cv axles were bad tires were bald when sold to me tps sensors were bad. Had to get a new set of tires and paid the Toyota for work on the vehicle
NHTSA complaint #11737608 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE 4 door utility 2.5L 4 Cyl Gas A AWD unexpected sudden acceleration My safety as well as other vehicles and occupants as could have been at risk. National Transportation Safety Boaed has confirmed 57 cpmplaints of same issue. Vehicle determined total loss by insurance inspector, Va State Police. No warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms proir to the problem.
NHTSA complaint #11736858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure suffered a sudden catastrophic transmission failure while driving on the highway on April 28, 2026, resulting in loss of forward gears and a dangerous situation. On April 28, 2026, while traveling in [XXX] , my 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure (159,173 miles) experienced a sudden transmission failure with no prior warning symptoms. The vehicle began slipping, made a whining noise, would not properly upshift or hold speed (became stuck in 3rd gear), and eventually lost all forward propulsion, creating a safety hazard on the road. I had the vehicle towed to Zanesville Toyota in [XXX] . Their diagnosis (copy of repair order attached) revealed severe internal damage including: Torque converter clutch actuator stuck off Multiple pressure control solenoids stuck Transmission slipping and complete loss of all forward gears Fluid full but contaminated with metal debris and clutch material Whining noise The dealer quoted approximately $15,000 for a full transmission + torque converter replacement and denied goodwill assistance. This appears to be part of a known issue with the 8-speed automatic transmission (UB80) in 2019+ Toyota RAV4 models. I am concerned this is a safety defect that can cause sudden loss of power while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. I have attached the Zanesville Toyota repair order dated 04/30/2026 documenting the failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11736751 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I have 2003 registered as 2004.This vehicle that I has Manufactured November 2003 base on the sicker beside driver side door and it's been registered as 2004 .Now the problem that I have is slow moving to first gear suddenly jump to second gear (This is Automatic Trnasmission) I thought it was accelerator pedal issues but I replace the pedal and its the same not shifting properly.I cannot drive my car now due to shifting issue in first anf second gear.This my second Rav4 .I have 2001 toyota Rav4 all wheel drive I I have the same Issue not shifting properly first and second gear ,I purchase ECM module back in 2021,2022 amount of $775.00 at Toyota Parts Deal.com that is not calibrated and I pay $350 at DCH toyata in Torrance for calibration I bring this issues at BAR in 2021 ,2022 to reinburstment of the money to Toyota Headquaters until now no response .I need your help to resolves this Issues. I work Winston Tire and Firestone tire And I studies Automotive system at SCROC in Torrance,Ca. 90505 Diploma, profile.I need my money back for the 2001 toyota Rav4 and I need your help for this 2003,2004 transmission issues that I have right now .My 2001 toyota Rav4 has no issues in shifting since I purchase the ECM module.I currently own this 2 vehicle registered under my name.Thank you for kind Consideration, Respectfully yours [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11733766 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Malfunction: Mechanical failure of the Torque Converter Clutch. The vehicle exhibits a persistent transmission shudder during acceleration between 25–50 mph. Warning Signs: None. There were no dashboard warning lights or error messages prior to or during the failure. The only indicator was the physical shuddering of the vehicle. Safety Risk: The malfunction causes unpredictable hesitation when merging or changing lanes, creating a dangerous speed differential and risk of rear-end collision. Documentation: Comprehensive maintenance records are available to prove the vehicle was serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule at a third-party facility.
NHTSA complaint #11732003 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
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.
My 2025 Toyota RAV4 (39,919 miles) has a permanent "Check Engine" light. On March 18, 2026, diagnostic codes P24517F and P214502a were found, indicating a failure in the switching valve and fuel tank pressure sensor. Toyota USA and the dealer are refusing to honor the 60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty and Federal Emissions Warranty. I am reporting this as a safety defect because the vehicle may lose power or stall on the highway, creating an immediate crash risk. The manufacturer's refusal to repair a known emission/fuel defect in a new 2025 model has left me with an unsafe vehicle for over 15days.
NHTSA complaint #11728745 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SUPPLEMENTAL TO COMPLAINT ID: 11728745. My 2025 RAV4 failed at 39,919 miles. Toyota Corporate is acting in bad faith to deny the 60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty. The Case Manager repeatedly calls only after 6:30 PM when the dealership is closed to avoid resolution. Furthermore, the representative is now using "legal threats"-directing me to their legal department-as a tactic to stop me from pursuing this valid warranty claim. This is a safety hazard and a violation of federal warranty law.
NHTSA complaint #11728938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I was about to accelerate on a main avenue, made a clunking sound and came to a halt. Couldn't pull over safely. Investigated by mechanic, said the Transmission exploded, and the differential gears broke. No warning lights.
NHTSA complaint #11727791 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.