Toyota RAV4 Complaints (2023)

238 consumer complaints on file.

#11688915September 22, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased a new 2023 Toyota RAV4 in March 2023, which is covered by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. In August 2025, while the vehicle was still within warranty, a malfunction warning appeared for the pre-collision system and Road Sign Assist. The Toyota dealership diagnosed an internal failure of the forward recognition camera (DTC C1A95:00 — image processing module malfunction) and recommended replacement and calibration at a cost of approximately $2,300. Toyota denied warranty coverage despite the failure being internal to the part and occurring within the warranty period. I am seeking reimbursement for repair costs that should be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11686293September 10, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving yesterday when we suddenly heard a pop on the roof. We pulled over and noticed that the sunroof was broken, with the glass sticking outward, as if something from the inside had exploded outward. The dealership would not take ownership of the damage, therefore i had to use my insurance. upon inspection I was told that it was pressure from inside the vehicle that caused it to explode and that they have seen it before in Toyota RAV 4 models
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11685598September 7, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While starting my rav4 prime, the instrument panel (gas gauge, speedometer, battery life, etc) went black. Took it to 3 different Toyota dealers; 2 sent me away and the 3rd said I can’t drive the car anymore. Service tech said it’s the 3rd one he’s seen with the instrument cluster black in the last year! They’re still running official diagnostics on it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11683758August 28, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
For over month on multiple random events, the car shuts down while traveling at hwy speeds. The car light prompt to shift the vehicle into neutral and push the start button to re start the engine. We have had the car at the dealership 4 separate occasions and they can not find the issue because it does not cause an engine light to come on when this happens. They also supposedly can not get it to duplicate so they are refusing to go any further. We have video of this occurring at 50mph. This causes lost of steering and braking. We reported this to Toyota and opened a case. They to will not pursue fixing the issue as they are not getting a trouble code. I fear this is going to cause a major accident and this poses a severe safety risk as you loose control of the vehicle
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11680640August 14, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Rav4 Prime. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and occupied, while attempting to start the vehicle, the contact became aware that the instrument panel was displaying a black screen. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed, and determined that the instrument panel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 68,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11675500July 22, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The vehicle's radio/ GPS navigation system shuts off and on and it is available for inspection upon request. My safety and the safety of others were put at risk because while in the middle of driving on a one-way street the radio/ GPS navigation system shut off in the middle of my trip and I was unaware of if I was going down the correct street because the navigation system completely shut off. I had almost crashed into another vehicle because the radio/GPS navigation system cut off in the middle of my turn so I was unaware of where I was supposed to be driving at the moment. The vehicle has been inspected by Toyota but has not fixed yet. There were no warning lamps but the radio/GPS navigation system did shut off a few times prior to this incident but it never occurred in a situation where I was in a time where I needed the GPS and feared for my life and the lives of others.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11675480July 22, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Rear passenger door drain is not clearing water and is building up in door frame. Have to pull back bottom of door trim to get the water to clear
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11674342July 17, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The issue is with the moonroof, which is part of the panoramic roof on the 2023 RAV4 hybrid driving down the freeway at highway speeds. The moon roof shattered. It sounded like a shotgun and it seemed to have broken and upward direction versus downward. There were no rocks from cars noticed in any vehicles in front of me to which could have caused this issue. If you’re looking at the photos all around the edge, there seems to be a seam on all four sides of the Glass giving away along with the hole protruding up.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11674020July 16, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES
1.) The component/system that failed/malfunctioned is the brakes and/or anti-lock braking system. 2.) My safety and that of the people in front of the vehicle is placed at risk because the vehicle's braking system fails, allowing the vehicle to surge forward for a split second, temporarily out of control. 3.) While the problem has occurred many times with various drivers, the Toyota service technician said they were unable to reproduce the issue. However, with the information (date/time) I have provided, they confirmed the computer indicates the ABS system was triggered each time. 4.) The vehicle has been inspected by the Toyota service center representatives. 5.) There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the brakes failing. The problem is the braking ability is failing for a split second, when the car hits a bump. The size of the bump can be as small as the crack in the asphalt where two roads meet. The problem occurs when I am driving at slow speeds and riding the brake because I am in a situation like being in slow-moving bumper-to-bumper traffic, approaching an intersection requiring a stop, or coasting down hill. On numerous occasions, the brakes release, allowing the car to surge forward for a split second, before re-engaging. Toyota has told me it is the ABS working as intended. To be clear, the braking failure is happening at slow speeds and on dry pavement. This is not how ABS normally works. I have driven numerous makes and models of cars for 40 years and I have never experienced this type of situation triggering an ABS system. I report this to Toyota each time I bring my car in for regular maintenance. During the last visit, my regular service technician told me that they have now seen at least 5 or 6 other cars doing what I have described above. I don't have a specific date of the incidence because it happens frequently and has done so since I bought the car (10/01/23), so below, I am just listing the last time I reported it to Toyota.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671474July 6, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, POWER TRAIN, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The vehicle was a 2023 Toyota RAV4 hybrid. When the driver attempted to park the vehicle in a parking lot, it suddenly began moving forward without use of the accelerator. The driver applied the brakes but the pedal went to the floor without braking. The vehicle seemed to be moving faster than expected without use of the gas pedal and went through the parking lot. The driver stopped the vehicle by running up over a curb, through a traffic island with soft dirt and mulch and finally crashing into a metal storage unit. Two air bags deployed. Toyota was notified of the crash and a Toyota representative made the 911 call. A New York state trooper and two fire trucks arrived. The vehicle was towed and eventually collected by our insurance company. The tow truck driver said the brake pedal went to the floor when he tried it. The car was declared a total loss. 1. The notable failure was in the braking system. The car also seemed to be traveling faster than it should and didn't slow down. The insurance company has the vehicle now. 2. The safety issue was loss of speed and braking control of the vehicle. Steering was normal. Fortunately the parking lot had few cars or people in it. 3. No investigation of the problem aside from assessment of damage that I know of. 4. Liberty Mutual assessed the damage. The NY state trooper made a collision information form and gave us a copy. 5. No warning lights or related symptoms were noted prior to the car traveling on its own. After the crash, a local Toyota dealer called and said that they were notified that the check engine light was on and there was a problem with the hybrid system, along with other warnings.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11670519July 1, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The digital dashboard (instrument cluster)on my 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime, suddenly went completely black. This included the speedometer, warning lights, fuel gauge, and all other driver information. I was unable to monitor my speed, vehicle status, or receive safety alerts — a serious risk while operating the vehicle. I have not authorized repairs yet. I brought the issue to Toyota’s attention, but since the vehicle is out of warranty and over the mileage limit, the dealership is requiring a $200 diagnostic fee just to evaluate the problem. There has been no formal decision from Toyota yet on whether they will cover the cost. After researching online, I discovered that numerous other owners of 2023 RAV4 Prime vehicles are experiencing this same dashboard blackout issue, suggesting a broader defect. This is not a result of wear and tear, and it directly impacts safe operation of the vehicle. I am submitting this complaint because this is a safety-critical system failure that should not occur in a new vehicle. If this is a common defect, it warrants investigation and potentially a recall. Toyota should not place the burden of diagnosis or repair on consumers for what appears to be a growing, safety-related manufacturing issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670424July 1, 2025
AIR BAGS, SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has had squeaky brakes for many months (from 4,000 miles onward and consistently continues to be an annoyance, nuisance, and safety hazard while intensifying in frequency), but despite taking the vehicle to the Toyota dealer more than 4 times, they have been unable to repair the issue. At least twice the air bag sensors have come on for the backseat when there was nobody seated in the backseat, distracting me from safely driving. Toyota has done nothing to right the wrong mechanically, refund me for the vehicle (a lease) or offer a replacement. I have a 14 page document filed with the Florida Attorney General Lemon Law Division thoroughly indicating why these ongoing mechanical failures, safety hazards, nuisances and distractions to me the driver substantially impair the use, value, and safety of the vehicle—fulfilling key criteria under Florida Statutes § 681.102 and § 681.104, which I am happy to provide all consumers and attorneys willing to launch a CLASS ACTION against Toyota. Florida law defines "impairment of value" not by market collapse, but by any reasonable reduction in consumer confidence. Consumer disclosure laws require honesty about defects. Florida Statute § 681.102(15) defines a “nonconformity” as a defect that “substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the motor vehicle.” My vehicle has been subject to repair more than 4 times for the same defect within 24 months and thus qualifies for relief. The manufacturer’s failure to permanently correct the squeaky brakes—even after attempted repairs—demonstrates a pattern of unresolved nonconformity. The squeaky brake issue is not a cosmetic inconvenience—it affects the vehicle's functionality, resale integrity, and safety assurance. Toyota acknowledges the problem exists (via TSB) but has failed to provide a lasting solution. If unresolved, this defect would materially concern any reasonable consumer and diminish confidence in the vehicle’s reliability and safety.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11666840June 13, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING, STEERING, SERVICE BRAKES
On the night of [XXX] at approximately [XXX] PM, I was driving from Tracy, California to Lancaster, California via the [XXX]. The freeway had no traffic at the time, and I set my cruise control to maintain a speed of 75 mph for a safer ride. While driving in the left lane near Santa Nella, my car suddenly deployed the ABS brakes. The steering wheel locked, and the car began to slip—its tires locked as if on a roller coaster going downhill. The driver’s side then rolled over and crashed. Fortunately, the road was empty, and I did not hit anyone during the accident. I thought I was going to die, but I am lucky to be alive. suddenly Abs brakes deployed steering wheel lock right side this reason I have very accident. I believe the car has manufacturer defects. First, the door handle on the driver’s side is positioned too close to the driver’s left arm. Second, the center console on the right side—intended for resting the driver’s arm or storing extra items—repeatedly hit my ribs during the accident. During the crash, the driver-side door handle struck my left arm multiple times. Orthopedic surgeons reviewed my X-ray and found that my forearm was fractured in three places. They recommended surgery. The center console also struck my right ribs repeatedly, causing swelling and pain. Fortunately, my ribs were not broken. My chest & ribs swelling and pain right side shoulder I have pain my head & neck pain My car was declared a total loss. I respectfully request that these issues be investigated, as I believe another driver could sustain similar injuries in a future accident involving this vehicle model. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11664045May 30, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES
On [XXX], I was pulling into a parking spot in a parking lot [XXX] in San Francisco. When I engaged the brakes, the vehicle did not stop and continued moving forward. The vehicle accelerated a bit and climbed over the parking lot barrier, onto the pedestrian sidewalk, and into the street despite continued brake depression. The right side of the vehicle made contact with the parking meter on the sidewalk for street parking. The brakes were depressed and engaged the entire duration of the incident, and the vehicle did not stop until impact with the parking meter. Standard safety features were enabled (ie. pre-collision system, road sign assist). Dynamic radar cruise control is disabled. I reported this incident to the Toyota dealership, whom sent a vehicle safety inspector, and I emphasized my concern for the safety of the vehicle. Per Toyota’s investigation report, Toyota concluded the vehicle was mechanically functioning properly at the time of the incident and the vehicle is overall safe to drive. (Written by [XXX] on behalf of my mom, [XXX] ) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663790May 29, 2025
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
During a rain Storm water was able to leak into my air intake box causing my air filter to become soaked. This caused my car to malfunction, come to an abrupt stop, alerting me of a "engine and steering failure" shutting my car off and becoming stranded on the highway.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11662468May 21, 2025
STEERING, ENGINE
Was driving in heavy rain after about a 35 mile commute and put the car in park. After about 5 minutes of sitting in park the car turned completely off by itself for a couple of seconds and restarted. Warning message “engine stopped steering power low” popped up on dash and was visible smoke coming from under the hood with a slight burning smell. This is a first incident for the car as it has been driven for about 2 years with a little over 35,100 miles on it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11662256May 21, 2025
ENGINE, VISIBILITY/WIPER, STEERING
My Toyota RAV 4 the power steering light comes on and says low & it always happens when it’s heavy raining and my wipers are on. The car just stops & wont start again for about 20 mins. This is super dangerous and has happened 4 times now
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11660599May 13, 2025
ENGINE
This problem has occurred twice now. First time: 4/19/2023 The car was brought to the car wash, I pulled into my parking spot the car shut off. When I attempted to turn the car back on the car would not start. The car showed a check engine light along with a steering wheel with an exclamation point. The dash said "Engine Stopped Steering Power Low". The car was immediately brought to the dealership after the car would start. The dealership did not find anything wrong along with no codes. The dealership assured me this would not happen while driving. Second Time: 5/9/2025 The car stalled mid driving in the rain and said "Engine Stopped Steering Power Low", car would not turnback on. Car has not been brought to the dealership again due to them not responding. This problem happening while driving puts not only my life at risk but everyone on the road.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659981May 9, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, STEERING
I was driving down [XXX] The car was moving along fine then when I pushed the gas it would jerk back and shake. I pulled off the highway and was able to coast into a gas station, but the engine stopped working as I was driving while cars were coming behind me. I could have been stopped in the middle of traffic with no way to get out. The power steering light came on as well as a light that said the engine was cut off. We just bought the car used with 22k miles on it and put an additional 3k miles on. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659811May 8, 2025
WHEELS, STEERING, SUSPENSION
After routine service at South Coast Toyota in Costa Mesa, CA, I unknowingly drove my 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for over a week with two missing lug nuts and one extremely loose lug nut on the front passenger wheel. The service performed on April 5, 2025, included an oil change, tire rotation, and full inspection. No issues were reported to me at pickup. Over the next several days, I heard increasing thumping and metallic noises from the front right wheel area, especially at highway speeds. On [XXX], while driving with children in the car, the vehicle made loud metal screeching noises and the steering became impaired—I could not complete a basic turn. I limped the car home at 4 mph. Upon inspection, I found two lug nuts missing and one so loose I could unscrew it by hand. I had the car towed back to South Coast Toyota on April 18. The dealership admitted two lug nuts were missing but failed to apologize or fully document the issue. I was told via text that the only action needed was replacing the missing lug nuts. I received no formal inspection report or confirmation that the vehicle was safe. I paid out of pocket for a third-party inspection at a separate Toyota dealership, which confirmed that the previously recommended sway bar replacement was unnecessary and that my tires and components were in better condition than initially claimed. This was a clear service-related safety failure that could have led to wheel detachment and a serious accident. I drove over 200 miles on freeways with children in the vehicle. The dealership failed to follow basic safety protocols and has not taken responsibility. I am reporting this to NHTSA in the interest of safety and accountability. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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