2006 Toyota RAV4

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 705 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 11 times.

Avoid One of the Toyota RAV4 years to avoid: 2.5× the complaints of a typical RAV4 year. Which Toyota RAV4 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
55,000 milesMedian miles at failure

539 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2006 Toyota RAV4 problems

203 of the 705 complaints (29%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering195
201
Engine97
101
Suspension55
100
Air Bags · airbags50
302
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration49
701
Electrical System27
100
Power Train · transmission19
010
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine18
010
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission17
200
Visibility14
001

2006 Toyota RAV4 steering problems

29% of all complaints

203 of the 705 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • knocks, grinds or clunks64% · 130
  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks7% · 14

Share of the 203 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
40,000 mi
median of 173 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
68 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
2 · 0 · 1
in these complaints
Recalls on the steering
None
“Clunking noise when turning steering wheel right or left. Numerous complaints from 006 RAV 4 owners. Fear that my steering will fail and cause an accident or Death. The issue is a defective intermediate steering shaft. Toyota will not issue a recall and will only repair if vehicle is still under warranty. How many complaints, accidents, or deaths will it take for this manufacturer to do the right thing???”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 3, 2022
“I bought a used 2006 rav4 3.5 l v-6, after a month a bought it. I noticed when I turn left or right I heard a clunk sound. I found out that the intermediate steering shaft is the problem. This common to most rav4, dealership it's normal but to me it doesn't fell normal when I'm driving, it feels like something is will come out or broke off. Kind of scary thing to feel when driving.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 14, 2020

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2006: 46 complaints, 0 about the steering'062007: 31 complaints, 4 about the steering2008: 24 complaints, 8 about the steering'082009: 52 complaints, 29 about the steering2010: 122 complaints, 68 about the steering'102011: 49 complaints, 20 about the steering2012: 57 complaints, 27 about the steering'122013: 67 complaints, 13 about the steering2014: 62 complaints, 10 about the steering'142015: 38 complaints, 6 about the steering2016: 33 complaints, 5 about the steering'162017: 52 complaints, 2 about the steering2018: 26 complaints, 4 about the steering'182019: 19 complaints, 2 about the steering2020: 7 complaints, 1 about the steering'202021: 7 complaints, 0 about the steering2022: 4 complaints, 3 about the steering'222023: 2 complaints, 0 about the steering2024: 2 complaints, 0 about the steering'242025: 3 complaints, 1 about the steering2026: 2 complaints, 0 about the steering'26Recall 09V223000 (equipment)Recall 10V035000 (equipment)Recall 10V036000 (equipment)Recall 11V113000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 12V373000 (suspension)Recall 13V383000 (suspension)Recall 14V168000 (airbags)Recall 15V689000 (visibility)Recall 16V096000 (seat belts)Recall 16V396000 (seats)NHTSA investigation PE12013
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2006 RAV4 peaked in 2010, with 122 filed that year. No recall on file covers the steering, the subject of 29% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

11 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear16V596000
Filed Aug 12, 2016337,449 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Toyota RAV4 vehicles manufactured October 31, 2005, to September 7, 2010, and 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles manufactured July 6, 2009, to August 26, 2010. The affected vehicles have rear suspension arms (rear tie rods) with adjusting lock nuts that may have been improperly tightened after servicing. As a result of being loose, the arm may have thread damage and may rust, possibly leading to the failure of the arm and an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.

Risk. Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners and dealers will replace both rear suspension arms and encapsulate the locknuts, free of charge. The recall began on September 30, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are G0V for Toyota vehicles and GLK for Lexus vehicles. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-383, in which some vehicles were only inspected, sealed, and did not have both arms replaced. The affected vehicles were previously recalled under 13V-383, but did not have both rear suspension arms replaced at that time. Those vehicles need to have both arms replaced as part of this recall remedy.

Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler16V396000
Filed Jun 2, 20167,749 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.

Risk. If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.

Seat Belts › Rear/Other16V096000
Filed Feb 19, 20161,123,752 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 RAV4 vehicles manufactured July 28, 2005, to December 19, 2012, and 2012-2014 RAV4 EV vehicles manufactured July 24, 2012, to August 29, 2014. In the event of a frontal collision, the rear seat belts for the outboard seats may be cut by the seat cushion frame.

Risk. A cut seat belt may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install a protector over both rear seat cushion frames, free of charge. The recall began on June 24, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is G0F.

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls15V689000
Filed Oct 22, 20151,814,284 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.

Risk. If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the switch, applying a lubricant if no abnormality is found. If abnormality is found, the PWMS circuit board will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 20, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is C0M.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module14V168000
Filed Apr 9, 20141,486,413 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module housed in a spiral cable assembly, which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer, the FFC could become damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Risk. If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically necessitates deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver.

Remedy. Toyota will notify the Toyota vehicle owners, and General Motors will notify the Pontiac Vibe owners. Toyota sent owners an interim notification letter in May 2014 to advise owners of the recall. Toyota will mail owners a second letter when remedy parts are available. General Motors sent Pontiac Vibe owners an Interim letter on June 20, 2014 notifying them that parts are currently unavailable. General Motors sent notices to the Pontiac Vibe owners on September 15, 2014, that a remedy is available. The recall began on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-762-2737.

Suspension › Rear13V383000
Filed Aug 28, 2013780,584 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2011 RAV4 and 2010 Lexus HS250h passenger vehicles manufactured from October 2005 through September 2010. If the nuts for adjusting the rear wheel alignment are improperly tightened during service, the rear suspension arm (rear tie rod) may develop unwanted movement and rust leading to thread damage and eventual failure. Failure of the rear tie rod will cause an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.

Risk. Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tie rods and replace any that have rust or corrosion on the alignment adjustment threads. All of the rear tie rods will then be encased in an epoxy to prevent future environmental damage. Due to limitations in parts, the recall remedy will be launched in phases from September 2013 through mid-April 2014. All owners will receive notification of the recall, with most receiving second notifications when parts are available in their area. IMPORTANT: This recall supersedes Toyota and Lexus recall 12V-373. All vehicles that have been inspected and remedied under the previous recall need to be re-inspected and have the appropriate remedy applied.

Suspension › Rear12V373000
Filed Aug 2, 2012780,584 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2011 RAV4 and 2010 Lexus HS250h passenger vehicles manufactured from October 2005 through September 2010. If the nuts for adjusting the rear wheel alignment are improperly tightened during service, the rear suspension arm (rear tie rod) may develop unwanted movement and rust, leading to thread damage and eventual failure. Failure of the rear tie rod will cause an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.

Risk. Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear tie-rod nut for looseness and replace any suspect tie-rod found loose. Dealers will also affix instructions in multiple places to prevent improper servicing in the future. The recall began on November 30, 2012. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal11V113000
Filed Feb 24, 20111,363,244 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 LEXUS LX570, 2003 THROUGH 2009 TOYOTA 4RUNNER, AND 2006 THROUGH 2010 RAV4 VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT.

Risk. A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy. THE REMEDY IS NOW AVAILABLE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN EARLY APRIL 2011. THE REMEDY WILL INVOLVE MODIFICATION OR REPLACEMENT OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND REPLACEMENT OF ANY TOYOTA ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 OR LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.

Equipment › Other › Labels10V035000
Filed Feb 3, 2010271,417 vehiclesGulf States Toyota, Inc.

Defect. GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.

Equipment › Other › Labels10V036000
Filed Feb 3, 2010153,418 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Risk. A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.

Equipment › Other › Labels09V223000
Filed Jun 15, 200927,080 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."

Risk. INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.

All 11 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 2 name the 2006 RAV4.

Rear Suspension Arm Assembly FailurePreliminary evaluation PE12013Closed
Opened Jun 4, 2012Closed Sep 13, 2012Led to recall 12V373000suspension

In a letter dated August 1, 2012 Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Toyota) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA Recall No. 12V-373) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding possible separation of the Rear Suspension Arm No. 1 Assembly (arm) at the threaded portion (shaft and turn buckle) of the component in MY 2006 through MY 2011 Toyota RAV4 vehicles built from October 2005 through September 2010 and in MY 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles manufactured from July 2009 through August 2010.According to Toyota, if the adjustment nuts for the rear wheel …

Unintended and Uncontrolled AccelerationRecall query RQ10003Closed
Opened Feb 16, 2010Closed Mar 1, 2011Led to recall 11V112000electrical system

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether …

Technical service bulletins

308 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2006 RAV4. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 100equipment 79body and frame 27electrical system 24transmission 21tires 9suspension 7airbags 6
KR3_Region EmailService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Region Email: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

KR3_Region LetteService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Region Letter: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

KR3_Dealer EmailService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Dealer Email: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

KR3_Dealer PackaService campaignOct 23, 2019equipment

Dealer Package: Toyota will be sending Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign Follow-Up Notices to owners whose vehicles have not yet had the following Safety Recall/Special Service Campaign repairs completed. Please note the following information for Regional and PD associates.

T-TT-0255-13Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 24, 2013steering

SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.

T-TT-0255-13Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 24, 2013steering

Customer experiences a clunk, pop, or knock-type noise when turning the steering wheel left or right on a 2006-2008 RAV4. While performing T-SB-0318-08, this document should be used to help supplement which parts to order prior to performing the repair

TSB-0157-12Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 25, 2012steering

TOYOTA: PROCEDURAL INFORMATION PROVIDED FOR REAR TIE ROD ADJUSTMENT TO ASSURE PROPER SEQUENCE OF TIGHTENING AND USE WHENEVER PERFORMING TOE ADJUSTMENT DURING WHEEL ALIGNMENT. MODELS 2006-11 RAV4. *PE

TSB-0318-08 REV1Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 20, 2008steering

TOYOTA: STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT NOISE. MAY HEAR A CLUNK, POP, OR KNOCK TYPE NOISE WHEN TURN IN THE STEERING WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT. A NEW INTERMEDIATE SHAFT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO ADDRESS THIS CONDITION. *PE UPDATED 5/22/2012. *JS

ST001-08Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 8, 2008steering

STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT NOISE - WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT. *NJ

00506Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 1, 2007steering

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING: MIL ON DTC U0105 & U0121. *TT UPDATED 10/26/07. *NJ

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2006 Toyota RAV4 4-DR.———★★★★★17.4%
2006 Toyota RAV4 4-DR. w/SAB———★★★★★17.4%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 26, 2026FL

2016 Superseding Recall (Campaign 16V596000): Toyota issued a follow-up recall because some initial epoxy repairs were not enough. Dealers must replace both rear suspension arms and encapsulate the locknuts completely free of charge. These parts are severely rusted and corroded on my 2006 Toyota Rav4. It seems like my vehicle was not included in the recall when it should have been. I am not the original owner, but it seems like the issue was never addressed. The damage was discovered during routine maintenance. I purchased the vehicle on 8/1/2024. The damage must have existed before then based on the amount of damage. Is it possible for Toyota to still extend the recall to this vehicle?

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Mar 13, 2026199,694 milesCA

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2006 Toyota Rav4. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 122,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 199,694.

Suspension
Filed Oct 30, 2025AZ

My 2006 Toyota RAV4 was supposedly repaired under the rear suspension arm recall (C0J / G0V), but the rear tie rod ends still have yellow stickers reading “this is a recalled part” and no epoxy on the bolts. A Toyota dealer refused to inspect the vehicle and relied solely on the VIN record. The car now rides roughly, and I believe additional suspension components have been damaged due to the unresolved recall. I am concerned for my safety and request NHTSA investigation.

Steering1 injured
Filed Aug 9, 2025VA

For several months the 2006 Rav4 with only 118k miles had been experiencing intermittent failure of power steering while driving at speeds between 5-20mph. These failures resulted in the steering wheel to become extremely difficult if not impossible to turn while the car is driving. In each incident, this resulted in stopping the car and putting on emergency lights until we can safely turn off the car and hopefully the issue goes away several minutes later. This issue has proven to be very dangerous when in traffic with no place to pull over and with the steering tightening up, it is not even possible to pull over in most cases. Four different mechanical shops tried to replicate the issue and none were able to determine the root cause nor replicate it consistently. This issue has been happening more frequently now and the car cannot be taken out safely. As [XXX] drivers, this is not safe by any means and Toyota should consider this a critical safety recall and cover towing costs to move this. There are no signs of instrument lights or any leaks coming from the car. This seems to be entirely a malfunction of steering components. With regard to incidents resulting from this, my mother is the primary driver, she is [XXX] old and injured her wrist trying to move the steering wheel to a safe location. Her wrist is still in pain several days later. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 31, 2025MN

Rear subframe rusted out. I took it in because my car started sounding like the Titanic after it hit an iceberg. The mechanic described it as “a giant hole in the bottom of the car.” I read there were recalls on frames for other Toyotas, but we kept up with every recall on this vehicle and the subframe was never listed as an issue. I get a regular multipoint inspection at the Toyota dealership about every six months, and no one caught this. I was told it is not safe to drive, and will snap at any time. I am lucky I did not crash.

Suspension
Filed Dec 2, 2024NC

The vehicle is owned and operated in Costa Rica. I submitted the vehicle for the 4 incomplete recall items associated with its VIN. I was told by Grupo Purdy Toyota of Costa Rica that Manufacturer Recall Number G0V NHTSA Recall Number16V596 does not apply in Costa Rica and they declined to complete the recall remedy. Is this correct or should they be completing the recall remedy?

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 30, 2024VA

I notified Toyota of an issue with my car a couple years ago. One day I came out to find my car missing big portions of paint (it had been a windy night); all of the paint in the attached photos came off in a single night and day, which is not normal paint performance. I came to find out that other years for the same make and model had a recall program for "pearl white paint". The issue seemed to be affecting my vehicle too. With large portions of paint peeling freely of the body of my vehicle, it began to rust. Rust eroding the structure of a vehicle can make the car unsafe for drivers and passengers. In an accident situation, the structure of the vehicle may be compromised by the rust, leading to more severe harm to occupants. Additionally, if the roof of the car is compromised, moisture could leak into the interior systems and cabin space, leading to other hazards, with potentially severely harmful outcomes. Toyotas response to the photos, report from the dealership, and BBB complaint I filed was: "your vehicle has not been identified as one of the vehicles impacted by the pearl white paint issue". Therefore, I had to pay to repaint my whole vehicle out of pocket. It was clear from the pictures and report that the paint issue was directly affecting my vehicle, but Toyota refused to acknowledge this and rectify the hazard.

FirerelatedFire
Filed Jul 27, 2023180,000 milesGA

The contact owned a 2006 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard a scraping and shuddering sound at the hood of the vehicle. The contact then stated that another vehicle noticed a spark underneath the vehicle and notified his wife. The contact’s wife was able to veer the vehicle off the road and exit the vehicle when the hood of the vehicle started to inflame. No warning lights were illuminated. No injuries were sustained. No medical attention was required. The fire department was notified and extinguished the fire. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot and deemed a total loss by the insurance company. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

Engine
Filed Feb 24, 2023CA

Two days ago my car was driving perfectly on the highway. The oil pressure light turned on I turned off the highway immediately and put more oil in the car. At this point my car is consuming over a quart every week and I don't drive more than a couple of hundred miles every week. I've taken several longer trips with this car. I started the car back up after checking the oil level, started driving and the light didn't come back on. About 10 more miles down the road on the highway the oil pressure light the check engine light vsc light the four-wheel drive light appear. I go to an AutoZone and I get a code p0012. I've done lots of research and I've learned that this is all related to Toyota's well-known defective design and manufacturing of their engines. I have a 2az Fe engine. I bought this car with 125,000 miles on it in 2020. It now has about 154,000 mi on it. I didn't know that the oil consumption was extreme until this point of research. Now my car is making a rattling sound most likely the engine needs to be replaced. Technically yes I can drive it but it will stall and probably light on fire if I do and this is dangerous. They had a TSB warranty extension in 2016 I believe. I did not own the car that time nor do I know if that car was even subjected to the extension notice. But it is well known engine can do this and the Pistons fail around this mileage that my car has. It's out of warranty but I'm reading everywhere people having problems with this year's car and the o

Engine
Filed Nov 14, 2022LA

2006 Toyota Rav4 with 2.4 liter engine burning oil rapidly. Burning approximately 4 quarts of oil in 3,000 miles. Vehicle currently has 100,000 miles. Issue persists even though I maintain routine maintenance on the vehicle. Luckily no safety hazards have occurred yet, but there is a high risk for potential safety hazard. Vehicle has been inspected by 3 different mechanics. I have been told by 3 different mechanics that this is a common issue for cars with this year/engine. About 2,800 miles after high synthetic oil change the vehicle begins to sound like it is struggling to accelerate at low speeds and the check engine oil light will briefly turn on at random then go away. Light does not stay lit or continuously flicker.

Steering › Linkages
Filed Sep 27, 202286,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while making a right or left turn, there was a loud popping sound coming from the steering wheel. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the popping noise was progressively louder while steering to make a turn. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the steering linkage needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,000.

SteeringCrash
Filed May 13, 2022GA

While my son was driving me the vehicles steering wheel locked and he was unable to steer the vehicle. It caused us to go off the road down a steep hill and wreck. I’ve never had any problems with this vehicle so it was completely unexpected. If there had been anyone in our path we wouldn’t of been able to stop from hitting them. It has not been inspected but there are witnesses to the accident

Steering
Filed Feb 3, 2022FL

Clunking noise when turning steering wheel right or left. Numerous complaints from 006 RAV 4 owners. Fear that my steering will fail and cause an accident or Death. The issue is a defective intermediate steering shaft. Toyota will not issue a recall and will only repair if vehicle is still under warranty. How many complaints, accidents, or deaths will it take for this manufacturer to do the right thing???

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Nov 1, 2021NY

My Toyota RAV4 started smoking by the headlights last night while I was driving on the highway. I pulled over and opened the hood to see what was happening and it burst into flames. The car completely burned. Nothing left! I see on the internet that other people have had this happen. Please investigate.

Engine
Filed Sep 28, 2021NY

Excessive oil consumption 1 1/2 quart oil every 600 miles

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 22, 2021CT

The rear subframe in my '06 Toyota RAV4 has rusted through. This is a key structural part of the vehicle, all of the rear suspension components attach to this subframe, so it's concerning to see the integrity of the subframe completely compromised. The component has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. There were no warning lamps or symptoms of the failure. I happened to be under the car checking out an issue with a heat shield when I happened to notice the frame condition.

Engine
Filed May 19, 2021TN

This 2006 Rav4 engine is known for its massive oil consumption due to the faulty piston rings. Always kept oil in it and had regular changes because of this issue. Checked the oil 2 days prior to the engine failure, and all was well. Driving down the hwy going around 70mph, the engine started to lose power and sound funny (high rpm sounds with no power), so I took my foot off the gas and coasted for a few seconds. Down to 50mph, I hit the gas pedal, and then a loud BOOM happened and car shook. Smoke from the engine, and then all the dash lights came on. Lost all power. Looked under the engine and a piston had blown a hole through the bottom of it. Needs new engine now. Mechanic inspected it and they documented with a picture. Thankfully I was not injured as that could have caused a serious wreck, especially if there was someone behind me. I've read about these engines being blown regularly online. Even some before 100k miles. No warnings before this happened.

WheelsCrash
Filed Apr 16, 2021107,254 milesWI

THIS COMPLAINT IS RELATED TO DISCOVERY SRX P215/70R16 COOPER TIRES WHICH WERE BOUGHT ON OCTOBER 23 2018. THESE TIRES ARE IDENTICAL TO RECALL 'NHTSA RECALL NO. - 19T-005 AFFECTING COOPER DISCOVERER' AND COOPER EVOLUTION' TIRES' ONLY THEY ARE THE 16 INCH TIRES. WE BELIEVE THAT THE 16 INCH TIRES SHOULD ALSO BE INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL. HERE ARE THE ISSUES THAT WE HAVE HAD WITH THESE TIRES: 1.10-23-18 PURCHASED DISCOVERY SRX P215/70R16 COOPER TIRES WITH ROAD HAZARD FROM BLAINS FARM & FLEET IN VERONA WI VEHICLE MILES 106292 2.10-28-18 REAR PASSENGER TIRE BLEW FOR NO REASON, CHANGED AND RETURNED TO BLAINS FOR REPLACEMENT (NO RECEIPT WAS GIVEN) 3.11-25-18 WHILE DRIVING HOME AND ROUNDING A CORNER, THE CAR VEERED INTO A CURVE AND DESTROYED THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE, RIM, AND WHEEL COVERS ON BOTH WHEELS. REAR TIRE WAS ALSO REPLACED BECAUSE OF BULGE ON TIRE. WE PAID THE $770.46 BECAUSE WE THOUGHT IT WAS OUR FAULT BUT NOW ARE WONDERING IF THIS WAS A TIRE ISSUE TOO. MILEAGE 107274 4. 02/21/2019 FOUND BULGE IN REAR PASSENGER TIRE, REPLACED TIRE AT BLAINS FARM AND FLEET 5.2/27/19 HAD ALIGNMENT CHECKED BECAUSE TIRE FELT LIKE THEY WERE NOISY AND WONDERING IF THERE WAS ANOTHER PROBLEM WITH THE TIRES. 6.04/16/21 FOUND BULGE IN DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE AND WILL HAVE REPLACED. CALLED DAVID AT COOPER TO EXPLAIN ALL OF THE ISSUES WE HAVE HAD SAY THAT THE FAILURES ALIGN WITH RECALL 19T-005 EXCEPT FOR THE SIZE OF THE TIRE. HE SAID THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING EXCEPT WANTED US TO TAKE THE TIRE WITH THE BUL

Electrical System
Filed Apr 3, 2021180,000 milesNJ

FOR SOME TIME THERE HAS BEEN AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS COMING ON AND LOSS OF POWER STEERING. THE CAR HAS BEEN CHECKED BY MECHANICS, INCLUDING ONE AT A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP, BUT THE PROBLEM WAS NOT FOUND. I HAVE EXPERIENCED THE PROBLEM WITH THE CAR STATIONARY, BUT I BELIEVE MY SON SAID IT HAS HAPPENED TO HIM WHILE IN MOTION.

Engine
Filed Mar 1, 202182,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS CONSUMING OIL AT AN EXCESSIVE RATE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE OIL WAS LEAKING AND EXCESSIVELY BURNING TO THE EXTENT THAT IT COULD CAUSE A POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT A WARRANTY RELATED CAMPAIGN REGARDING THE ENGINE HAD BEEN ISSUED HOWEVER, THE TIME-FRAME WAS EXCEEDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,000.

Steering
Filed Dec 14, 2020WA

I BOUGHT A USED 2006 RAV4 3.5 L V-6, AFTER A MONTH A BOUGHT IT. I NOTICED WHEN I TURN LEFT OR RIGHT I HEARD A CLUNK SOUND. I FOUND OUT THAT THE INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT IS THE PROBLEM. THIS COMMON TO MOST RAV4, DEALERSHIP IT'S NORMAL BUT TO ME IT DOESN'T FELL NORMAL WHEN I'M DRIVING, IT FEELS LIKE SOMETHING IS WILL COME OUT OR BROKE OFF. KIND OF SCARY THING TO FEEL WHEN DRIVING. I THINK THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD FIND A SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE COULD HURT OR DIE.

Engine
Filed Nov 3, 2020OR

THE ENGINE IS BURNING OIL DUE TO BAD PISTON RINGS. I DID SOME DIGGING FOUND THAT THAT IT WAS MANUFACTURED THIS WAY.

Suspension
Filed Jul 21, 2020263,000 milesTN

AS A RESULT OF HAVING RECALL 16V596000 PERFORMED, REAR TOE ARMS ARE NO LONGER ADJUSTABLE FOR ALIGNMENTS. CONTACTED TOYOTA CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR AT THEIR COST THE MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT CAUSES PREMATURE RUST, OFFERED NO SOLUTIONS. CAUSES PREMATURE TIRE WEAR, LOSS OF TRACTION.

Engine
Filed May 17, 2020OH

THERE WAS A RECALL REGARDING OIL CONSUMPTION. I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. THEY FILLED UP THE OIL AND TOLD ME TO COME BACK AFTER 3000 MILES BUT TO NOT FILL THE OIL. HALFWAY IN, THE OIL WAS COMPLETELY EXHAUSTED. BECAUSE IT HAD NOT BEEN 3000 MILES, I COULD NOT TAKE IT BACK FOR A FIX. I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO ADD OIL OR THE ENGINE BLOWS. WHEN I DID TAKE IT BACK, I WAS GIVEN THE RESPONSE THAT THE VEHICLE BURNS A NORMAL AMOUNT OF OIL AND I TOLD THEM I HAD TO FILL IT IN BETWEEN TO AVOID THE ENGINE BLOWING. THEY REFUSED TO FIX THE RECALL. I CONTACTED TOYOTA WHO ALSO REFUSED TO FIX THE RECALL BECAUSE THE DEALERSHIP HAD WRITTEN "NORMAL" CONSUMPTION. THE VEHICLE BURNS OIL AT A VERY RAPID RATE AND I WOULD LIKE THIS RECALL PERFORMED ON MY VEHICLE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 1, 2020143,954 milesTX

HAD MY 2006 TOYOTA RAV 4 IN THE DEALERSHIP FOR RECALL SERVICES. I ALSO HAD RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE TUNEUP AND BRAKE FLUID DRAIN AND REFILL. WHEN I LEFT THE PARKING LOT OF THE DEALERSHIP, I CROSSED 2 LANES OF TRAFFIC, BRAKED, WAITED FOR ALTERNATE TRAFFIC TO PASS BEFORE TURNING ONTO THE CITY STREET WITH MY FOOT STILL ON BRAKE, THE CAR ACCELERATED, LURCHED THEN ACCELERATED AGAIN WITHOUT ME PRESSING ON THE GAS AND CONTINUING TO BRAKE WHEN IT ACCELERATED. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP BACK THE NEXT MORNING AND THEY TOWED IT BACK IN. AFTER THEY PERFORMED SEVERAL TESTS AND TEST DRIVE IT THEY COULD NOT GET IT TO DUPLICATE THE SAME THING. THERE WERE TWO PREVIOUS OCCURRENCES THAT I DID NOT REPORT TO THIS ENTITY SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED THE CAR USED. THEY HAPPENED CLOSE TOGETHER AND NOT AGAIN UNTIL THE MOST RECENT EVENT. I BELIEVE THE PROHIBITIVE COST OF THROTTLE BODY AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL MODULE ($1,519.40) WHICH ARE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS TO ACTUALLY FIX THE PROBLEM AND NOT THE FLOOR MATS, IS WHY THE PREVIOUS OWNER SOLD THE CAR TO ME. NO WARNING FORTHCOMING, EVEN THOUGH I DID ASK.

Engine
Filed Feb 27, 2020163,260 milesTN

THE ENGINE IS BURNING OIL LIKE MAD. I PURCHASED IT THREE WEEKS AGO AND THERE WERE NO ISSUES WHEN I LOOKED AT IT. I HOOKED MY OBD II SCANNER AND NO CODES POPPED, WHICH MADE ME GO AHEAD AND PURCHASE IT. I HEARD ABOUT THE TOYOTA 2AZ-FE ENGINES HAVING OIL ISSUES, BUT THIS IS GETTING OUT OF HAND. MY MECHANIC CHANGED MY OIL A LITTLE OVER A WEEK AGO AND NOTIFIED ME THAT I WAS A QUART LOW, BUT FILLED IT FOR ME. HE TOLD ME IF I WAS CONCERNED TO MONITOR IT, WHICH I HAVE. TONIGHT, FEBRUARY 27, 2020, I CHECKED MY OIL WHILE IT'S STATIONARY IN MY DRIVEWAY AND HAS NOT BEEN ON FOR OVER FOUR HOURS AND IT'S RIGHT AROUND THE LOW LEVEL LINE. I GOT MY OIL CHANGED AT 163,035 MILES. IT'S NOW LOW AT 163,260 MILES! I'M SCARED AND CONCERNED ABOUT DRIVING IT BECAUSE BEING A COLLEGE STUDENT AND WORKING, I WOULD DREAD THAT MY RAV4'S ENGINE BLOWS UP OR SEIZES ON ME OUT OF NO WHERE. PLEASE, THIS ISSUE IS SCARY AND CAN PLACE A LOT OF PEOPLE AND FAMILIES IN DANGER. I CAN PROVIDE PAPERWORK OF THE DAY OF THE OIL CHANGE AND MY ODOMETER. I TOOK A PICTURE OF IT WHICH I WILL ATTACH.

Suspension
Filed Jan 28, 2020130,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EACH TIME THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN, IT SHOOK INTERMITTENTLY. NO WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE HAS PROGRESSIVELY WORSENED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 130, 000.

Suspension
Filed Dec 20, 2019182,999 milesPR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BOTH REAR WHEELS WERE WEARING OUT THE TIRES DUE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V596000 (SUSPENSION) REGARDING THE REAR SUSPENSION ARM. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NAGUABO AUTO SALES (272 NAGUABO PR 00718), BUT AN ALIGNMENT COULD NOT BE COMPLETED DUE TO THE SEAL ON THE REAR SUSPENSION. THE DEALER WAS SUPPOSED TO REPLACE BOTH SUSPENSION ARMS, BUT THEY WERE SEALED INSTEAD. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE TIRES WOULD SLIDE WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT AN ALIGNMENT COULD NOT BE COMPLETED DUE TO THE SEAL ON THE REAR SUSPENSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 182,999. THE VIN WAS INVALID.

Suspension
Filed Dec 3, 2019MD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V596000 (SUSPENSION), HOWEVER THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. HERITAGE TOYOTA CATONSVILLE (6324 BALTIMORE NATIONAL PIKE, BALTIMORE, MD 21228, (844) 315-0964) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Engine
Filed Jul 6, 201912,151 milesTN

MY CAR HAS BEEN CONSUMING LOTS OF OIL HOWEVER I WAS NEVER ABLE TO IDENTIFY WHERE THE LEAK WAS COMING FROM. I CONTACTED TOYOTA CERTIFIED REPAIR SERVICE WHEN I WENT TO GET OIL CHANGED THEY INDICATED THEY DID NOT IDENTIFY ANY LEAKS AND THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING CORRECTLY ALTHOUGH I RETURNED TO TOYOTA CERTIFIED REPAIR SERVICE WITHIN APPROXIMATELY 3 WEEKS SERVICE ADVISOR ACKNOWLEDGED THAT LEAK SHOULD HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED CLOSER. SERVICE ADVISOR VIEWED OIL EVERYWHERE UNDERNEATH HOOD AND IT AGAIN REQUIRED 2.5 QUARTS ON OIL IN THIS SHORT TIME FRAME. I WAS ADVISED TO DRIVE ANOTHER 1K MILES AND BRING BACK TO DETERMINE WHERE LEAK WAS LOCATED AND THEY WOULD ASSIST WITH REPAIR COSTS HOWEVER I BROUGHT BACK WITHIN 584 MILES AND VEHICLE AGAIN HAD CONSUMED ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF OIL YET NOW ADVISOR AND SERVICE MANAGER INSISTED THEY COULD NOT HELP WITH ANYTHING. ONLY AFTER BEING VISUALLY UPSET ABOUT THE MOST RECENT DEVELOPMENTS DID THE SERVICE ADVISOR LIBRA JONES MENTION ANYTHING ABOUNT THE WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT ZE7 BUT ALSO STATED MY WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED AND I WAS LEFT TO FEND FOR MYSELF. LIBRA JONES TOLD ME TO CONTACT TOYOTA TO SEE IF THEY WOULD HELP AND BRIEFLY MENTION THE GOODWILL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. HOWEVER AFTER SPEAKING TO MILLIE@ TOYOTA, SHE HAD NO INTENTIONS OF ASSISTING WITH ANY REPAIR COSTS AND EVEN ASKED TO SPEAK TO A MANAGER IN REGARDS TO MY ISSUE AND SHE STATED SHE WOULD HAVE A MANAGER CONTACT WITHING 24 HOURS HOWEVER NO ONE BOTHERED TO EVER REACH OUT TO ME WHATEVER WHICH FORCED ME TO

Power Train
Filed May 13, 2019150,000 milesTN

WE PURCHASED A 2006 RAV4 LIMITED THE FIRST WEEK OF MARCH 2019. A REAR DIFFERENTIAL COUPLING GROWL NOISE WAS NOTICEABLE A MONTH AFTER WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. WHILE DRIVING THE REAR END STARTED MAKING A GROWLING NOISE. IN EARLY JANUARY 2015 TOYOTA ISSUED A WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (ZF4) FOR YEARS 2006-2012 RAV4 TO HAVE THE DEFECTIVE BEARING REPLACED, BUT THEY PUT AN EXPIRATION DATE OF APRIL 30TH 2017 OR 9 YEARS FROM THE DATE OF FIRST USE REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE. I CAN'T UNDERSTAND HOW YOU CAN PUT AN EXPIRATION DATE ON A DEFECTIVE PART. THESE BEARINGS COULD GO BAD AND SEIZE AT ANY TIME POSSIBLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT WITH INJURIES OR EVEN DEATH. WE HAPPEN TO OWN TWO OF THESE VEHICLES, SAME YEARS, ONE MAKING NO NOISE AND NOT GOING BAD YET, BUT THE OTHER DECIDED IT WAS TIME. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THIS REAR DIFFERENTIAL COUPLING BEARING, NOT A WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM. TOYOTA HAS ALREADY ACKNOWLEDGED A DEFECT WITH THE BEARING BY INITIATING A WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM, YOU CAN'T JUST SAY AFTER APRIL 30TH 2017 NO OTHER BEARINGS WILL FAIL AND IF THEY DO WE PASS THE BUCK ON THE PROBLEM. THANK YOU FOR HEARING MY CONCERNS, I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING BACK FROM YOU. I WOULD LIKE TO DEBATE THE ISSUE WITH ONE OF THEIR REPRESENTATIVES WITH YOU LISTENING, I'D RIP'EM APART. IT IS TIME THESE BILLION DOLLAR COMPANIES OWN UP TO THEIR MISTAKES AND NOT PASS THE BUCK TO THE LITTLE GUY. THANK YOU AGAIN, (XXXX). YOU CAN CONTACT ME AT (XXXX). PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PRO

Engine
Filed May 9, 2019OH

2.4 ENGINE BURNS EXCESSIVE OIL. APPARENTLY, OTHER TOYOTA MODELS WITH THE SAME 2.4 ENGINE HAVE HAD FREE REPAIRS. I BELIEVE TOYOTA SHOULD REPAIR THE 2.4 ENGINE IN MY 2006 RAV4 TO STOP THE EXCESSIVE OIL BURNING. IT NOW BURNS ONE QUART FOR EVERY 500-600 MILES.

Electrical System
Filed May 2, 2019AL

LOSING OIL ENGINE MAKING NOISE NO POWER

Engine
Filed May 2, 2019AL

TAMARA RECALL ENGINE FAILURE ALMOST CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT. DEALERSHIP TELLS ME THE IT'S AN RECALL BUT, IT HAS NOW EXPIRED. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW A SAFETY RECALL CAN EXPIRE. I NEED HELP FROM AN ATTORNEY ON THIS MATTER. BECAUSE THIS ISN'T RIGHT. CAN YOU RECOMMEND AN ATTORNEY? THEY SAID THEY COULD ONLY DO NEW RINGS AND NEW PISTONS BACK THEN BUT NOW TOYOTA WILL NOT EVEN DO THAT. SO NOW I JUST HAVE A 5,000 BILL FOR A NEW ENGINE.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 26, 2019180,000 milesCT

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR AND FRONT AXLES WERE RUSTED OUT AND RUST COVERED THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CURRY WATER TOWN TOYOTA (832 STRAITS TURNPIKE, WATERTOWN, CT 06795, (203) 758-8261), BUT THE MECHANICS REFUSED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000. .*BF CONSUMER STATED THE TOYOTA DEALER IN WATERTOWN, CT (CURRY) REFUSED TO DO A SAFETY RECALL ON THE REAR LOWER SUSPENSION ARM DUE TO AXLE RUST. THIS RUST WAS NEVER BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION PREVIOUSLY. *JB

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 15, 2019107,000 milesMN

HAVING AN ISSUE WITH MY REAR RIGHT WHEEL SPEED SENSOR - SO THEREFOR IF I DON'T COUGH UP THE $1200 THAT TOYOTA IS ASKING, I WON'T HAVE THE SAFETY FEATURES OF ABS OR TRACTION CONTROL ON MY CAR. I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE ABS, BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON... THEY'VE BEEN ON FOR A WEEK.. CAR IS SITTING AT TOYOTA NOW WHILE I DECIDE WHAT TO DO

Suspension
Filed Apr 12, 2019111,000 milesPR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE SHOOK. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V596000 (SUSPENSION). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TOYOTA DE PONCE (URBANIZACIN PERLA DEL SUR, CARRETERA 2, ESQUINA CALLE RAFAEL LUGO GONZALEZ, PONCE PR 00716, (787) 651-8800), BUT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Engine
Filed Apr 8, 2019138,000 milesPA

OIL LIGHT CAME ON SECONDS BEFORE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE AND I HAD TO PULL OFF ROAD. ENGINE REQUIRED FOUR (4) QUARTS OF OIL. NO WARNING OF LOW OIL!! I WAS DRIVING ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AT THIS TIME!

Air Bags
Filed Mar 11, 2019100 milesUT

MY RAV4--VIN: [XXX]--HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG CONNECTOR. WHEN THE WARNING LIGHT IS ON, IT DEACTIVATES ALL OF THE AIRBAGS. IT HAS BECOME PERMANENTLY ON IN RECENT DAYS. IT HAS BECOME A SAFETY HAZARD. WHEN I START MY VEHICLE AND THE AUTOMATIC CHECK UP, THE AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS LIGHTING UP. THE AIRBAG LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD WOULD BE ON WHEN STATIONARY OR IN MOTION. IT WILL KEEP ON FOR THE DURATION OF THE DRIVE. THE ERROR CODE FOUND BY MY INDEPENDENT MECHANIC IS B1821. BUT MY MECHANIC CAN NOT FIX THIS PROBLEM. EVEN REPLACING THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT MAY NOT FIX THE PROBLEM, ACCORDING TO MY MECHANICS. IT WAS A DESIGN PROBLEM WITH THE CONNECTOR. I HAVE ASKED TOYOTA TO FIX THIS FOR FREE. TOYOTA REFUSED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TT

Air Bags
Filed Mar 5, 2019112,000 milesUT

THE SIDE AIRBAG CONNECTOR FAILED TO WORK SPORADICALLY. WHEN IT FAILED TO PASS THE ONBOARD TEST, THE WHOLE AIRBAG SYSTEM STOPS WORKING, WHICH BECOMES A SAFETY HAZARD.

Steering
Filed Feb 27, 2019140,000 milesFL

VEHICLE DID HAVE AN OFFICIAL RECALL(STEERING SHAFT ASSEMBLY) VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED 2X'S. VEHICLE IS EXPERIENCING SAME PROBLEM. STEERING GETS TIGHT AND KNOCKS. SENT LETTER TO TOYOTA IN CALIFORNIA CREATED CASE #[XXX] DEALER REFUSES TO REPAIR *TT CONSUMER STATED THERE ARE 2 ODI NUMBERS #352270 AND #1182873. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *LN*JB

Exterior Lighting
Filed Feb 27, 2019CA

PLEASE REQUIRE A RECALL AND REPLACEMENT OF HIGHLIGHTS ON ALL NEWER CARS. THEY ARE MUCH TOO BRIGHT. I CAN'T SEE A THING WHEN THESE CARS ARE DRIVING TOWARD ME BECAUSE THE LIGHT IS BLINDING. I HAVE HIT ANIMALS IN THE ROAD AND IN 2 INSTANCES HAVE ALMOST STRUCK PEOPLE. PLEASE REQUIRE A RECALL AND REPLACEMENT OF ALL THESE LIGHTS, AND PLEASE REQUIRE ALL STATES TO TEST THE BEAM DIRECTION ANNUALLY, PARTICULARLY ON TRUCKS AND LARGE SUVS WHICH TIP UPWARD IN THE FRONT END WHEN THEY ARE TOWING OR CARRYING A LOAD IN THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. ALL OF THESE LIGHTS ARE A HAZARD AND I FEEL IT IS JUST A MATTER OF TIME UNTIL I STRIKE A BICYCLIST OR PEDESTRIAN BECAUSE I SIMPLY CAN'T SEE BEYOND THE VEHICLE WITH THAT MUCH LIGHT IN MY EYES. (I HAVE HAD MY EYES EXAMINED FOR PHOTOSENSITIVITY AND THAT IS NOT THE PROBLEM.) PLEASE ACT ON THIS.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 1, 2019125,600 milesCA

STEERING FROZE UP WHILE LEAVING MY DRIVEWAY AND P/S LIGHT CAME ON. SHUT ENGINE OFF AND BACK ON, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE. I RECALL AT LEAST ONE OTHER TIME THAT STEERING LOCKED UP TEMPORARILY WHILE AT A STOP. TOOK TO DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSTIC AS MANUAL RECOMMENDS. DIAGNOSTIC SHOWS DTCS U0105 AND U0121. FOUND TAB ST005-06 RELATED TO THIS ISSUE AND "UPDATED POWER STEERING ECU AVAILABLE". DIAGNOSTIC $150, PARTS AND LABOR $1600+ CLEARY THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE REQUIRING A RECALL. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THERE ARE MANY MORE SIMILAR COMPLAINTS.

Engine
Filed Jan 18, 2019NJ

EVER SINCE MY VEHICLE HIT 100,000 MILES, IT HAS BEEN BURNING OIL EXCESSIVELY AT THE RATE OF ABOUT 2-3 QUARTS EVERY 800-1000 MILES. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY HAS APPROX. 116,000 MILES ON IT. PRIOR TO REACHING 100,000 MILES, IT WAS TESTED BY TOYOTA VIA A SERVICE "BULLETIN", NOT A "RECALL" FOR THIS ISSUE, AND PASSED. BUT, AFTER REACHING 100,000 MILES IT WAS TESTED AGAIN, AND FAILED. UNFORTUNATELY, THE VEHICLE IS NO LONGER UNDER ANY TYPE OF WARRANTY COVERAGE, MAKING REPAIRS FINANCIALLY IMPOSSIBLE

Engine
Filed Jan 15, 2019PR

IT WAS RECALLED FOR MOTOR OIL CONSUMPTION. BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO TAKE IT FORBPERSONAL REASONS. RECALL EXPIRED IT CAN NOT BE FIXED. NOW CAR IS CONSUMING ALOT OF OIL. DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO.

Steering
Filed Jan 5, 2019WA

STEERING 'CLUNKS' AND CAR WON'T TURN AT LOW SPEEDS/STATIONARY, RADIO MOMENTARILY CUTS OUT AND DASH LIGHTS FLASH. CAN TURN THE STEERING WHEEL FURTHER AFTER A FEW SECONDS. HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY, SO FAR ONLY AT LOW SPEEDS/WHILE PARKING OR LEAVING A PARKING SPACE.

Suspension
Filed Dec 25, 2018117,450 milesMA

FRAME HAS SEVERE CORROSION ROTTED THROUGH. THIS PROBLEM MUST HAVE BEEN PROGRESSING FOR SOME TIME, BUT THE INDICATOR OF A RATTLING WAS MOST EVIDENT RECENTLY. I BEGAN HEARING A CLANGING SOUND UNDER THE REAR OF THE DRIVERS SIDE WHEN I WENT OVER SMALL BUMPS IN THE ROAD, SUCH AS A MANHOLE OR SMALL POTHOLE. IT GOT PROGRESSIVELY WORSE IN A MATTER OF DAYS, OCCURRING OVER SMALL CRACKS IN THE ROAD SO I BROUGHT IT TO MY LOCAL MECHANIC. HE HAS DEEMED IT UNSAFE TO DRIVE WITH SEVER ROTTING THROUGH OF THE FRAME. MY RESEARCH ONLINE INDICATES THIS IS SIMILAR TO BRIAN WARNER ET AL. V. TOYOTA MOTOR SALES, U.S.A., INC., CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT ON THE TACOMA, TUNDRA AND SEQUOIA AND RECENT INVESTIGATION INTO THE 4RUNNER BY NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA).

Suspension › Rear
Filed Nov 23, 2018104,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, A BUMPING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT DRIVE IN A STRAIGHT LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION EXPERIENCED SEVERE RUSTING AND CORROSION AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO ARLINGTON TOYOTA (2095 N. REND RD, PALATINE, IL) WHERE THE FAILURE WAS CONFIRMED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED IN 2013 PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V383000 (SUSPENSION) TO PREVENT THE FAILURE FROM OCCURRING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 104,000.

Steering
Filed Nov 22, 2018CA

HEAR CLUNK SOUND WHEN TURNING THE STEERING. CHECK WITH TOYOTA SUNNYVALE DEALER, THEY SAID THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED

Engine
Filed Nov 22, 2018CA

BURNING ENGINE OIL, TURNS OUT NEED TO FILL ENGINE OIL VERY FREQUENTLY. SEARCH ONLINE, IT'S A RECALL. BUT IT'S EXPIRED FOR ME

Complaints 1-50 of 705, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2007
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202591300Routine
2024176300Routine
2023164310Routine
2022149102Fatalities reported
2021389170Above average
2020639650Above average
2019884730Above average
20183333330High concern
20173073242Fatalities reported
20162403120Above average
20153054411Fatalities reported
20141974250High concern
20132572291Fatalities reported
2012260540Above average
20112871180Above average
20104001430High concern
20093271530High concern
200857514162Fatalities reported
20071,00414370High concern
2006 — this page7051151Fatalities reported
2005141520Do not drive
2004154240Do not drive
2003315040Above average
20025270150Above average
2001309021Fatalities reported
200030302Fatalities reported
199962540Routine
199877500Routine
199754120Routine
199647120Routine
19951000Routine
19944000Routine

Compare every RAV4 year →

2006 Toyota RAV4: questions buyers ask

Is the 2006 Toyota RAV4 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the RAV4 years to avoid: owners filed 705 complaints, 2.5 times as many as a typical RAV4 year. The most common complaint is about the steering (29%).

What is the most common problem with the 2006 Toyota RAV4?

The steering: 203 of the 705 complaints (29%) are about it. Owners most often say it knocks, grinds or clunks (64%) and loses steering assist or the wheel locks (7%). The typical report comes at 40,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2006 Toyota RAV4 have?

11 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 12, 2016. The largest, 15V689000, covered 1,814,284 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2006 Toyota RAV4 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 55,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 40,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2006 Toyota RAV4?

Yes, 2 times. The latest, PE12013 ("Rear Suspension Arm Assembly Failure"), was opened Jun 4, 2012 and closed Sep 13, 2012.

Are there service bulletins for the 2006 Toyota RAV4?

The manufacturer filed 308 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (100), the body and frame (27) and the electrical system (24). They include a service campaign, KR3_Region Email, filed Oct 23, 2019. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Aug 12, 2016. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.