“This complaint is related to and the same type of complaint as complaint #11297696. It also is a duplicate of complaint # 11297717 which I noticed when I printed it out deleted all but the first ten words of what happened. On 5 january 2020 I was parking the rav 4 in a large parking lot at the green town center in beavercreek, ohio. The parking lot was set up with head-to-head parking.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 7, 2020 at 104,300 miles
“This complaint is the same type of problem identified in complaint #11297696. On 5 jan 2020 I was parking the rav 4 in a lot at the greene town center in beavercreek ohio. I pulled into a space which was head -to-head parking. I then backed up to straighten the car out between the designated white lined parking space.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 7, 2020 at 104,300 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the throttle and accelerationRecall (red: the throttle and acceleration)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2009 RAV4 peaked in 2010, with 94 filed that year. Owners had filed 3 complaints about the throttle and acceleration before the first recall that covers it, 10V017000 in January 2010; 85 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 4 so far.
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.
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.
Filed Sep 18, 2015423,456 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 RAV4 vehicles manufactured October 27, 2008, to December 19, 2012 and 2012-2014 RAV4 EV vehicles manufactured July 24, 2012, to August 29, 2014. In the affected vehicles, water may drip onto the joint that connects the wiper linkage to the wiper motor.
Risk. Over time, the dripping water may cause corrosion and wear at the joint, potentially resulting in the separation of the wiper linkage. Once this occurs, the wipers would not function, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water diverter channel. In addition, a new wiper linkage with a wiper motor crank arm will be installed. The wiper linkage will have a protective cover over the wiper linkage joint to minimize water splash and a retainer ring to prevent the wiper arm from separating from the wiper motor. The recall began on November 7, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service number at 1-800-331-4331.
Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler14V743000
Filed Nov 19, 20143,233 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC
Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
Risk. Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
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.
Filed Jan 16, 20133,235 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC
Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Risk. If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy. Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls12V491000
Filed Oct 10, 20122,519,424 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.
Risk. If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy. Toyota will notify its owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and apply a special grease that inhibits heat build up or replace any switch damaged by the defect, free of charge. Toyota owners that experience a problem with a switch should not attempt to make repairs, but should contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. General Motors will contact the Pontiac Vibe owners affected by this recall and GM dealers will inspect and repair switches as necessary. Those owners may contact Pontiac Customer Care at 1-800-762-2737.
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.
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.
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.
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal10V017000
Filed Jan 21, 20102,230,661 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.
Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 CAMRY, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, COROLLA MATRIX, RAV4, MODEL YEAR 2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 SEQUOIA, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 TUNDRA VEHICLES. DUE TO THE MANNER IN WHICH THE FRICTION LEVER INTERACTS WITH THE SLIDING SURFACE OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL INSIDE THE PEDAL SENSOR ASSEMBLY, THE SLIDING SURFACE OF THE LEVER MAY BECOME SMOOTH DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. IN THIS CONDITION, IF CONDENSATION OCCURS ON THE SURFACE, AS MAY OCCUR FROM HEATER OPERATION (WITHOUT A/C) WHEN THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY IS COLD, THE FRICTION WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS OPERATED MAY INCREASE, WHICH MAY RESULT IN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECOMING HARDER TO DEPRESS, SLOWER TO RETURN, OR, IN THE WORST CASE, MECHANICALLY STUCK IN A PARTIALLY DEPRESSED POSITION.
Risk. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY BECOME HARD TO DEPRESS, SLOW TO RETURN TO IDLE, OR, IN THE WORST CASE, MECHANICALLY STUCK IN A PARTIALLY DEPRESSED POSITION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT BAR IN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WHICH WILL ALLOW THE PEDAL TO OPERATE SMOOTHLY. GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS FOR THE PONTIAC VIBE PLEASE SEE 10V-018. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2010 AND WILL BE COMPLETED ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
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 15 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. 3 name the 2009 RAV4.
Power Window Master Switch FireEngineering analysis EA12006Closed
Opened Jun 14, 2012Closed Feb 12, 2013Led to recall 12V491000electrical system
On October 10, 2012, Toyota initiated a safety recall of approximately 2.5 million U.S. vehicles involving the following models and model years:2007-2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2008 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007-2009 RAV4, 2008-2009 Scion xB and xD, 2008-2009 Sequoia, 2007-2008 Tundra, 2007-2008 Yaris, and 2009 Pontiac Vibe.See NHTSA recall number 12V-491 for more details, including the affected vehicle manufacture dates for each vehicle model.Note that only early-production 2009 model year vehicles are included in the recall.Toyota and GM dealers …
Power Window Master Switch FirePreliminary evaluation PE12002Closed
Opened Feb 6, 2012Closed Jun 14, 2012electrical system
ODI has identified certain Toyota vehicles experiencing a higher rate of fire and thermal event incidents among all Toyota vehicles that use the same power window master switch design.They include a total of approximately 1.4 million model year (MY) 2007 through 2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 and Yaris vehicles built from approximately September 2006 through August 2008, as well as all MY 2008 Highlander Hybrid vehicles.This Preliminary Evaluation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-006) to further study the alleged defect and its consequences.The ODI reports cited above can be …
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
287 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2009 RAV4. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
equipment 90body and frame 49engine 36electrical system 24transmission 22throttle and acceleration 9airbags 9suspension 8
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.
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.
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.
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.
TSB003220Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 17, 2023throttle and acceleration
TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ? 2023 model year vehicles may be available provided the requests meet the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin. Follow the Procurement Procedure in this bulletin to request …
LSC BST Phase 3Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 31, 2014throttle and acceleration
As part of the settlement described above, Toyota will install Smart Stop Technology on the above listed model and model year vehicles. This feature will cut engine power in case of simultaneous application of both the accelerator and brake pedal at certain speeds and in certain driving conditions.
LSC BST Phase 1.Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 31, 2014throttle and acceleration
On July 24, 2013, the settlement of claims for Economic Loss arising from allegations of unintended acceleration was approved. As part of the settlement Toyota will be launching the third phase of a Limited Service Campaign to install Smart Stop technology on March 31, 2014., for the following models:
LSC BST Phase 2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 11, 2013throttle and acceleration
On July 24, 2013 the settlement of claims for Economic Loss arising from allegations of unintended acceleration was approved. As part of the settlement Toyota will be launching the second phase of a Limited Service Campaign to install Smart Stop Technology on December 11, 2013 for the following models:
LSC BST Phase 2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 11, 2013throttle and acceleration
On July 24, 2013 the settlement of claims for Economic Loss arising from allegations of unintended acceleration was approved. As part of the settlement Toyota will be launching the second phase of a Limited Service Campaign to install Smart Stop Technology on December 11, 2013 for the following models
Class Action SetService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 18, 2013throttle and acceleration
As communicated in mid-June 2013, the Federal Court in Orange County, California continued the Fairness Hearing regarding the proposed settlement of the consolidated Economic Loss Class Actions related to claims of unintended acceleration until July 19, 2013.
Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the throttle and acceleration, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2009 Toyota RAV4 4-DR. w/SAB
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★★★★★
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
Suspension
Filed May 22, 2026NJ
We were informed of safety recalls for our Toyota Rav 4 2009 . We called the local Toyaota dealership for the recalls and was told on the phone after we dropped it off that they did the inspection to make sure the recalls could be completed and informed us that they could ,but they needed to keep overnight because they had to order the parts. Prior to dropping the vehicle off the car was able to be driven and no known issues were visible. Received call following told to come pick it up and that they officially refused to perform the recalls repairs. They stated that excessive structural damage and unsafe to drive to this degradation. Because the structural rust is directly in the exact suspension components targeted by this safety recalls. The vehicle cannot be remedied under standard recall procedures. By refusing the repair without providing an alternative solution The manufacture is failing its federal obligation to remedy a known safety defect. The vehicle is currently trapped in a regularity deadlock. It can not legally or safely be repaired. It is now deemed unsafe to be driven period. When the dealership gave the vehicle back, They wanted us to sign off and yes we refused because they told us it was inspected and was going to be repaired. When they did the inspection it is known that they have to bang , wrench and or pull on these parts to check to see if recall can be completed. Which they told us it could. When the vehicle was picked up we immediately noticed that th
Unknown or Other
Filed May 11, 2026ID
I am writing to report a suspected case of odometer fraud involving a vehicle currently listed for sale at Stacey’s Auto Sales, located at [XXX] . Vehicle Details: 2009 Toyota RAV4 Sport VIN: [XXX] Asking Price: $8,995 Current Listed Mileage: 108,540 I obtained an NMVTIS vehicle history report which shows this vehicle was listed at a dealer (Revolutionary Auto) in December 2020 with 150,439 miles on the odometer. The vehicle is currently being sold with only 108,540 miles — a discrepancy of approximately 42,000 miles over five years. The current Utah title lists odometer reading as ‘EXEMPT,’ which may have been used to obscure this discrepancy. I am not the buyer or seller of this vehicle. I am a private citizen who identified this discrepancy while researching the vehicle prior to a potential purchase. I am submitting this report in the interest of protecting other consumers. I have the NMVTIS report available as supporting documentation upon request. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension
Filed May 4, 2026WI
Repairs of the control arms indicated on recall NHTSA 16V-596 were never done on my vehicle after the recall was issued in 2016. Smart motors Toyota in Madison confirmed that the replacement of the control arms was never done on my vehicle, but they are showing no open recalls on my vehicle in their system due to this being a re-recall. From what I've read many vehicles were incorrectly marked "complete" after the 2012 inspection, but the 2016 update (G0V) was issued specifically because those earlier inspections were found to be insufficient. I am entitled to this repair through Toyota due to this recall as Toyota has confirmed my vehicle was recalled and this repair was never completed. My rear control arms are showing signs of failure consistent with the re-recall.
Engine
Filed Apr 20, 2026230,000 milesTN
The contact owns a 2009 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the engine at startup. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil caused by a gasket failure inside a piston in the engine. Due to the failure, the contact was frequently adding oil to the engine. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and an estimate was provided for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.
Engine
Filed Oct 24, 2025WA
Engine timeing system rattle on startup. Even basic web research shows this is a common problem for select model years and acorss mulitple models. This issue has a high probility of causing catastrophic engine damage, where the timeing chain & VVT system fails to keep timing causing the valves to colide with the pistons. There is a TOTAL ENGINE FAILURE risk with each and every engine start. The fix on the 3.5L requires the engine to be removed, VVT and timing chain tensioner to be replaced. This is a $4000 to $5000 dollar repair. This is a clear manufacuting wide spread defect and should be repaired by toyota via recall!
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 17, 2025OR
I was hit with a rock right between my eyes while driving, took Toyota into shop they were surprised it had not fell in on my lap. Window frame has corroded, glass shop said the manufacturer did not paint were the seals meet around the window and has allowed moisture in and corroded the frame. I have 160,000 miles on a Toyota that the window could fail anytime.
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 25, 2024NC
We have a 09 Toyota Rav4 with a Blizzard Pearl paint that continues to fail. Apparently there were notices sent out in 2022 indicating a recall that would cover these repairs. We were unaware of these notices and continue to experience paint degradation on multiple areas of the car. I have contacted Toyota and they claim no responsibility past the 2022 expiration date. I am hoping that NTSB will reopen the recall regarding this issue. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension
Filed Jan 16, 2024MA
My son was looking to get his new tires aligned, and was informed by the mechanic that he would need to replace both side rear lower control arms, as Toyota had performed a safety recall GOV, resulting in the arms being epoxied, and therefore cannot be adjusted/ aligned. I contacted Toyota customer experience center (800 331 4331 - 1/16/2024) and she could not even call up the original recall. My question is: How can Toyota permanently remove a vehicle feature (adjustability of the suspension arms), and then require car owners to bear the brunt of re-installing the arms when you need to align your tires? This "solution" is totally unfair. I just purchased a new set of tires, and based on Toyota's "solution" I need to pay out of pocket to replace the control bars and/or damage my tires and have to replace them early. I was not able to find any other information on this issue on the web, and was wondering if Toyota had done anything to address this issue?
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 16, 2023TX
Four incidents of unintended acceleration , in all instances foot was on break petal NOT on gas petal, 3 instances vehicle was stopped at traffic light, last incident was pulling into a parking space foot on brake, in all instances braked hard and shifted vehicle into neutral and turned vehicle off to avoid collisions, personal injury and property damage
Suspension
Filed Jul 14, 2023PA
My rear passenger suspension has multiple part damage. Rear shock bracket failure and other parts.
Structure › Body
Filed Mar 29, 2023NJ
Paint recall the problem was confirmed twice by sansone dealership avenel, nj. 4/28/2021 and 12/1/2022. on both occasionspictures were submitted and i was told it would be taken care of. on 1/23/2023 i dropped car off to be repainted and was told it would be about 1.5 weeks. i picked up the car unrepaired on 2/21/2023. they said they would not honor recall
Engine
Filed Mar 19, 2023TN
Engine rattle on cold start ups.
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 8, 2022PA
My car was being seviced today for rear brakes and the Toyota dealer needed to unseal previous safety recall in order to perform the service. I'm being charged to undo the recall to perform the service and then to reapply the recall. I do not understand how this cost is not the responsibility of the manufacturer, Toyota. If there is a recall issued for an auto, shouldn't the recall correction allow for future auto maintenance where the recall doesn't need to undone and then reapplied?
Suspension
Filed Jan 4, 2022MI
The rear lower suspension arms recall notice solution was replacement of arms if needed and than sealed with epoxy. Labels were applied stating the arm is no longer adjustable. The vehicle no longer can routinely get a wheel alignment at a market expense. The Toyota company suggests for further alignments go to a Toyota dealership and have a alignment done for 900.00 dollars every time you need a alignment. This is not a safe solution. This only makes owners go to their dealerships and give them thousands of more dollars for taking away a routine adjustable maintenance capability with this permanent one time fix.
Service BrakesCrash
Filed Dec 26, 2021VA
My mother had the exact same issue reported in Toyota Manufacturer case 1707311582 and NHTSA report 11396355 from Feb 15, 2021. My mother had not reported to me, until it happened while I was driving her around Dec. 24, 2021, that her Rav. rev'd and accelerated when she applied the brake while leaving a parking spot. Here's what I've reported to my Toyota dealership where we bought the vehicle. Until last month (Nov. 21), the vehicle had an immaculate operation and maintenance record. To the repair shop "Twice in the past month, we've had brake failure, accelerator failure issues. The first time, my mother was pulling forward at less than 5 miles per hour in a parking lot. She pushed the brake pedal when pulling forward, but the car did not slow, the brakes did not engage, and instead, the RAV revved and accelerated forward. She crashed into the parked vehicle and incurred damages that already have been fixed by USAA at a service location in Richmond. The airbag did not deploy. Dec. 24, here in Churchland, I was driving with her. While coasting to a stop light at less than 10 miles per hour, I attempted to stop by pressing the brake. The car revved and accelerated to the light, I pressed both feet again, and the car continued to accelerate and I ended up running a red light and luckily we did not have an accident or cause the person behind us to rear end us. It was not until after my driving on Dec. 24 that my Mom told me she had an accident a month earlier and it was because
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 22, 2021WA
The paint on my white 2009 Toyota RAV4 has been coming off. Sheets of color is peeling on the roof. I have several large (1-2 inches) bare spots on the top and many tiny ones on the body hood and doors, rusting for years. The manager of Titus-Will Toyota advised me not to do anything about it when I showed them the recall letter from Toyota and let him take pictures of the affected areas of my car. He said he would send a request and let me know about the repair decision. It has been more than two years since my complaint. I ask about it almost every time I go there for my scheduled service maintenance, and I get no answer so far. Until now, I still don’t have a response from them, and I am a little unhappy. Also, I see that I am not their favorite customer and avoided by management as they are always swamping. I showed them how bad the paint continues to come off, and the rust is awful. I could off taken care of it by now, but the manager clearly said not to paint it or do anything about it until he gets confirmation about the issue. My roof could start licking with all this rain and rust. Thank you.
Suspension
Filed Mar 15, 2021104,000 milesNY
MY PROBLEM IS UPON INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE I WAS TOLD A RECALL (16V596000) FOR MY REAR SUSPENSION ARMS WAS AVAILABLE AND I NEEDED TO HAVE IT DONE AS THE BACK END NUTS COULDN'T BE ADJUSTED. I CALLED A DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS TAKEN CARE OF 3 YEARS AGO, YET THE PROBLEM STILL REMAINS.
Service Brakes
Filed Feb 15, 2021113,000 milesUT
WHILE DECELERATING ON A FREEWAY OFF-RAMP AT APPROX. 25 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE CAR. GOING NO MORE THAN 5 MPH, I LIFTED OFF SLIGHTLY THEN DEPRESSED THEM ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR; THEY DIDN'T ENGAGE PROPERLY BUT FINALLY SLOWED THE CAR ALMOST TO A COMPLETE STOP, BUT THE ENGINE REVVED AND THE CAR KEPT WANTING TO GO FORWARD. I THREW THE TRANSMISSION INTO PARK AND TURNED OFF THE IGNITION.
Structure › Body
Filed Dec 8, 2020VA
THE PAINT ON OUR 2009 TOYOTA RAV4 COMES OF WITH THE SLIGHTEST BUMP FROM SOMETHING LIKE A BRANCH, WHICH SHOULD NOT NORMALLY CAUSE PAINT TO COME OFF. BECAUSE OF THIS WE HAVE SEVERAL BARE SPOTS WHICH ARE BEGINNING TO RUST.
Engine
Filed Oct 14, 2020IL
I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR SERVICE ON OCTOBER 12, 2020 BECAUSE THE OIL LIGHT WAS FLICKERING THOUGH I AM NOT DUE FOR ANOTHER OIL CHANGE UNTIL JANUARY. I WAS TOLD TO REPLACE THE MOTOR DUE TO EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. UPON RESEARCHING ONLINE LEARNED THAT THIS IS DUE TO DEFECTIVE PISTON RINGS AND IN 2011, TOYOTA ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN. AT THIS POINT, THEY ARE REFUSING TO CORRECT THE ERROR WITH THE DESIGN OF THE PISTONS.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 11, 202087,000 milesSC
SHEETS OF THE PAINT STARTED TO COME OFF WHILE GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY.
Engine
Filed Aug 20, 2020RI
ALL LIGHTS COME ON CHECK ENGINE,4WD,TRAC , COME AND GOES, GOING 6 TIMES ALREADY TO DEALER LAST 2 WEEKS.. RAV4 WITH LOW MILES .. TOYOTA VERY DISSATISFIED
Power Train
Filed May 13, 202091,000 milesIL
WHEN THE VEHICLE TRAVELS ABOVE 25 MPH, A LOUD WHINING NOISE CAN BE HEARD FROM THE REAR-CENTER OF THE VEHICLE. THE NOISE PROGRESSIVELY INCREASES IN VOLUME AS THE VEHICLE INCREASES ITS SPEED. ONCE THE VEHICLE TRAVELS FAST ENOUGH, OR ENOUGH POWER IS FED THROUGH, POWER OF THE VEHICLE CAN BE AFFECTED. *TR
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 6, 2020131,000 milesOH
WHINING NOISE FROM REAR AND CONTINUES TO GET LOUD WHILE DRIVEN. WAS TOLD IT MAY BE MY REAR DIFFERENTIAL THAT WAS IDENTIFIED BY TOYOTA IN 2013
Electrical System
Filed Mar 3, 202078,000 milesCA
THE POWER STEERING LIGHT CAME ON THEN THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED I JERKED IT TO THE RIGHT TO GET IT TO PULL OFF THE ROAD. I WAS DRIVING ON A CITY STREET GOING UP HILL WHEN THE CAR FINALLY DISABLED, THE MECHANIC TOLD ME HE FOUND NOTHING WRONG WHEN HE PUT IT ON THE DIAGNOSTIC I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR WITH MY CHILD I'VE PAID 140.00 FOR AND INSPECTION NOW I'M TAKING IT TO THE SF TOYOTA MECHANIC.
Engine
Filed Feb 15, 2020125,000 milesIL
AUTO BURNING EXCESSIVE OIL AND COOLANT BOX STAYS FULL TO TOP CAR IS STATIONARY
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 14, 2020137,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV-4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED THAT THE CANISTER WAS FRACTURED AND WAS LEAKING FUEL AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED TO BE ABLE TO PASS INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE CONTACT CALLED NEW COUNTRY TOYOTA OF SARATOGA SPRING DEALER, (3002 NY-50 BUILDING #1, SAGATOGA SPRINGS, NY 12866, (518) 584-7272) AND INFORMED THEM OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,000.
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Jan 7, 2020101,112 milesOH
I WAS PARALLEL PARKING THE 2009 RAV 4 IN YELLOW SPRINGS OHIO. WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE I WAS STRAIGHTENING THE CAR OUT WITH THE GEARSHIFT IN ONE WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED, JUMPED THE CURB AND HIT A VERTICAL SIGN POST THAT IDENTIFIED THE PARKING SPOT AS A HANDICAPPED SPOT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY $1800 DAMAGE TO THE CAR WHICH WAS REPAIRED AND DRIVEN UNTIL A SIMILAR ACCIDENT ON 5 JAN 2020 WHICH WILL BE FILED IN A SEPARATE COMPLAINT. A COMPLAINT WAS LODGED WITH TOYOTA WHO INVESTIGATED, READOUT THE EDR/VCH DATA, TEST DROVE THE VEHICLE AND CONCLUDED THERE WAS NO DEFECT.
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Jan 7, 2020104,300 milesOH
THIS COMPLAINT IS RELATED TO AND THE SAME TYPE OF COMPLAINT AS COMPLAINT #11297696. IT ALSO IS A DUPLICATE OF COMPLAINT # 11297717 WHICH I NOTICED WHEN I PRINTED IT OUT DELETED ALL BUT THE FIRST TEN WORDS OF WHAT HAPPENED. ON 5 JANUARY 2020 I WAS PARKING THE RAV 4 IN A LARGE PARKING LOT AT THE GREEN TOWN CENTER IN BEAVERCREEK, OHIO. THE PARKING LOT WAS SET UP WITH HEAD-TO-HEAD PARKING. I PULLED INTO THE SPACE AND BACKED-UP TO EVEN THE CAR OUT BETWEEN THE DESIGNATED WHITE LONES. WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND THE GEAR SHIFT IN THE LOWEST GEAR I WAS EDGING FORWARD WHEN THE RAV 4 SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND HIT THE HONDA ODYSSEY VAN IN FRONT OF US.I WAS ABLE T BACK THE CAR UP AND SINCE THE HONDA WAS UNOCCUPIED WE CALLED THE POLICE WHO FILED A REPORT IN BEAVERCREEK AND LEFT A CRD ON THE HONDA'S WINDSHIELD. THE DAMAGE TO THE VAN WAS BUMPER SCRAPES AND THE DAMAGE TO THE RAV WAS BUMPER SCRAPES AND A TEAR IN THE BUMPER. AN ESTIMATE HAS NOT BEEN MADE ON REPAIR COSTS AND TOYOTA HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED.
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Jan 7, 2020104,300 milesOH
THIS COMPLAINT IS THE SAME TYPE OF PROBLEM IDENTIFIED IN COMPLAINT #11297696. ON 5 JAN 2020 I WAS PARKING THE RAV 4 IN A LOT AT THE GREENE TOWN CENTER IN BEAVERCREEK OHIO. I PULLED INTO A SPACE WHICH WAS HEAD -TO-HEAD PARKING. I THEN BACKED UP TO STRAIGHTEN THE CAR OUT BETWEEN THE DESIGNATED WHITE LINED PARKING SPACE. WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND THE GEAR SHIFT IN ONE/LOW THE CAR WAS EDGING FORWARD WHEN IT ALL OF A SUDDEN ACCELERATED AND HIT THE FRONT BUMPER OF THE CAR IN FRONT OF IT. SINCE THAT CAR WAS UNOCCUPIED A POLICE CALL WAS MADE IN AN ATTEMPT TO FIND THE DRIVER WHICH WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DAMAGE TO THE HONDA ODYSSEY (THE CAR IN FRONT) WAS SCRAPES ON THE BUMPER. THE RESPONDING OFFICER LEFT HIS CARD ON THE WINDSHIELD OF THE HONDA. THE DAMAGE TO THE RAV 4 CONSISTS OF A TEAR IN THE FRONT BUMPER AND SOME SCRAPES AND REPAIR COSTS HAVE NOT BEEN ESTIMATED. TOYOTA HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED ABOUT THIS LATEST INCIDENT.
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Dec 10, 2019137,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A BRICK WALL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 30, 2019162,000 milesVA
DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING 65MPH ON INTERSTATE WHEN LARGE TRUCK IN FRONT OF HER DROPPED THEIR DRIVE SHAFT. SHE TRIED TO STRADDLE THE OBJECT DUE TO NO SHOULDER AND ANOTHER VEHICLE IN NEXT LANE. REPORT STATED IT RUPTURE GAS TANK AND LOSS ABILITY TO STEER VEHICLE SENDING GET INTO AND THROUGH GUARDRAIL. TOTALLED EVERYONE FRONT END OF VEHICLE. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. SHE SUFFERED SIGNIFICANT CONCUSSION AND WHIPLASH.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 23, 2019CT
FRONT PASSENGER SEATBELT LIGHT IS ALWAYS FLASHING WITHOUT ANYONE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. I SAW ON THIS WEBSITE THAT 2009-2012 TOYOTA RAV4 HAD A RECALL IN 2013 FOR OCCUPANT SENSING SYSTEM CALIBRATION. I CALLED TOYOTA AND THEY SAID HAY MY VIN NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL BUT WHY AM I HAVING THAT PROBLEM NOW?! HE DESCRIPTION IN THAT RECALL SAYS THAT THE AIRBAGS WON'T DEPLOY OR WILL DEPLOY IMPROPERLY IN THE CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. I BELIEVE THAT I'M HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM.
Service Brakes
Filed Aug 5, 2019140,000 milesOH
BRAKE PEDAL GOES VERY LOW TO THE FLOOR BEFORE ENGAGING. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM THAT I HAVE HEARD LOTS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT FOR THIS MODEL. IN OTHER SIMILAR CASES TOYOTA HAS TOLD CUSTOMERS IS NORMAL. SINCE THIS HAS STARTED THE BRAKES HAVE BEEN BLED WITH NO IMPROVEMENT. ALSO (PROBABLY A SEPARATE PROBLEM) BOTH THE BACK BRAKE CALIPERS HAD TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE OF LEAKING, FIRST THE RIGHT REAR AND LATER THE LEFT REAR. BRAKES WERE AGAIN BLED EACH TIME, LEAK WAS GONE BUT STILL A VERY LOW PEDAL.
Steering
Filed Jun 13, 2019140,000 milesAL
STEERING COLUMN CREAKS AND STICKS. AT TIMES IT DOES NOT RETURN TO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. ONE OF THE PEOPLE WHO SERVICED MY CAR FOR TIRES TODAY ALMOST HIT A RETAINING POST DUE TO THIS ISSUE. I HAVE ALSO EXPERIENCED THE STICKING OF THE STEERING IN ONE POSITION AND HAD TO FORCIBLY RETURN THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. I AM NOT FEELING SAFE IN THIS VEHICLE AND KNOW THAT THIS ISSUE IS IMPACTING THE VALUE OF THE VEHICLE.
Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit
Filed May 15, 2019112,000 milesID
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD ABNORMAL NOISES COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THAT THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,000.
Seat BeltsCrash2 injured
Filed Apr 2, 2019KY
ON MAY 26, 2016, MY MOTHER WAS TRAVELING NORTH ON I-69 NEAR EDDYVILLE, KENTUCKY IN HER 2009 TOYOTA RAV4 WITH MY SON IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. A DRIVER TRAVELING SOUTH ON I-69 CROSSED THE MEDIAN INTO THE NORTHBOUND LANE, AND COLLIDED WITH MY MOTHER'S VEHICLE HEAD-ON. AT THE TIME OF THE COLLISION, BOTH MY MOTHER AND SON WERE WEARING THEIR SEAT BELTS, HOWEVER, THE SEAT BELTS DID NOT WORK PROPERLY AND CONTRIBUTED TO MY MOTHER AND SON'S SERIOUS INJURIES. DURING THE COLLISION, THE LAP BELT ON BOTH SEAT BELTS TIGHTENED SUBSTANTIALLY, WHILE THE SHOULDER RESTRAINT NEVER TIGHTENED OR LOCKED. AS A RESULT OF THE SEAT BELT ISSUE, MY SON AND MOTHER SUSTAINED SIGNIFICANT ABDOMINAL INJURIES DUE TO THE EXTREME TIGHTENING OF THE LAP BELT, AND HEAD INJURIES AS A RESULT OF THE FAILURE OF THE SHOULDER RESTRAINT TO PROPERLY LOCK. SPECIFICALLY, MY SON SUSTAINED A LIVER LACERATION, PULMONARY CONTUSION, AND SUPERIOR MESENTERIC ARTERY THROMBOSIS AS A RESULT OF THE EXTREME TIGHTENING OF THE LAP BELT WITHOUT TIGHTENING OF THE SHOULDER RESTRAINT. ADDITIONALLY, BECAUSE THE SHOULDER RESTRAINT FAILED TO WORK PROPERLY, IT DID NOT STOP HIS FORWARD MOMENTUM, CAUSING HIM TO STRIKE HIS HEAD ON THE DASHBOARD OR WINDSHIELD AND SUSTAIN A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY. MY MOTHER SUSTAINED MULTIPLE RIB FRACTURES, A LEFT PNEUMOTHORAX, SMALL BOWEL ENTEROTOMY, MESENTERIC TEAR, AVULSION OF THE SIGMOID COLON, AND TEARING OF HER ABDOMINAL MUSCULATURE AS A RESULT OF THE SEAT BELT. *DT*JB
Power Train
Filed Dec 11, 2018105,000 milesWI
HAVE A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. HAD GROWLING NOISE IN REAR IN 2017. HAD REAR DIFFERENTIAL COUPLER SUB ASSEMBLY REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT. NOW 20000 MILES LATER IN NOVEMBER 2018 HAVE GROWLING NOISE AGAIN AND LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SAYS COUPLER WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT EXPIRED OCTOBER 2018. TOYOTA WON'T STAND BY NEW PART AND DEALER SAYS WOULD COST ABOUT $1900 INCLUDING LABOR.
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Aug 27, 201832,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION AND THE ENGINE RPMS SUDDENLY INCREASED. THE DRIVER QUICKLY SWITCHED THE TRANSMISSION INTO THE NEUTRAL POSITION IN ORDER TO SLOW DOWN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER (PAGE TOYOTA, 21262 TELEGRAPH RD, SOUTHFIELD, MI) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 32,000.
Electrical System
Filed Aug 25, 2018CA
BACK DOOR CANNOT UNLOCK, NO MANUAL ACCESSIBILITY TO OPEN DOOR FROM INSIDE, NO KEY ENTRY FROM OUTSIDE, LATCH ACTUATOR FAILED, IF STUCK IN TRUNK AFTER ACCIDENT DOOR CANNOT BE OPENED DUE TO NO HANDLE/NO MANUAL FUNCTION TO OPEN DOOR DUE TO NO OPERATING LATCH.
Engine
Filed Aug 2, 201834,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WATER PUMP LEAKED FLUID WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TOYOTA OF ORANGE (1400 N TUSTIN ST, ORANGE, CA 92867, 714-639-6750) WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE WATER PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 34,000.
Power Train
Filed Jun 4, 2018140,000 milesVA
GROWLING NOISE FROM REAR DIFFERENTIAL WHILE DRIVING. 4 MONTHS PAST ENHANCED WARRANTY PERIOD. RECALL IS NEEDED. UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND VERY EXPENSIVE REPAIR.
Unknown or Other
Filed May 20, 2018150,000 milesMI
2009 TOYOTA RAV 4, 2.5L V4, 4WD. A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, I WAS DRIVING LIKE NORMAL, AND WHEN I PRESSED THE GAS, THE CAR DIDN'T MOVE. I TURNED IT OFF AND STARTED IT UP AGAIN AND PUT MY FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL AND IT MOVED AND THEN I HIT THE BRAKE AND IT DIDN'T MOVE WHEN I HIT THE GAS. THE RPM INCREASES BUT THE CAR DOES NOT MOVE FORWARD OR IN REVERSE. THE CAR STARTS JUST FINE AND IT WILL MOVE FOR ABOUT 30 SECONDS - BASICALLY BEFORE IT'S WARMED UP. THEN AFTER 30 SECONDS, IF I HIT THE GAS, REGARDLESS OF PUTTING IT IN REVERSE, DRIVE, IT WON'T BUDGE. THIS IS A BIG SAFETY CONCERN, AS THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING AND THERE WERE SEVERAL CARS BEHIND ME. I IMMEDIATELY TURNED ON MY HAZARD LIGHTS.
Suspension
Filed May 16, 2018350 milesFL
SUSP RECAL 13V-383, MY VEH HAS TEMP REAR SUSP ARMS, DEALER NOT WILLING TO PERFOM PERMANENT REPAIR AND REPLACE CAUTION STICKERS STILL ON REAR TIEROD/CNTRL ARMS, KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE PLEASE HELP MY # [XXX] NOTICED UPON INSPECTION NO INCIDENT YET. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Power Train
Filed Apr 10, 2018110,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED BEFORE AND DURING THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AUTONATION TOYOTA WINTER PARK (225 N SEMORAN BLVD, WINTER PARK, FL 32792) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL OR WARRANTY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
Steering
Filed Mar 30, 201898,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. WHEN THE CONTACT TURNED THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT, THE STEERING WHEEL EMITTED A LOUD THUMPING NOISE AND FELT LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000.
Suspension
Filed Feb 12, 201882,540 milesVA
THE REAR SUSPENSION ARM BOLTS ON MY RAV 4 RUSTED OUT AND FAILED. THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO BE REPLACED AS PART OF A RECALL, BUT THE DEALERSHIP FAILED TO DO THAT. BECAUSE THE BOLTS FAILED, I AM BEING ASKED TO PAY FOR NEW REAR LOWER SUSPENSION ARMS AND AN ALIGNMENT.
Engine
Filed Feb 11, 2018108,000 milesMI
JUST OVER 100,000 MILES ON THE 2009 RAV 4. WITHOUT ISSUE. NOT ORIGINAL OWNER. THIS WEEKEND IT TRIED 3 TIMES TO ACCELERATE US INTO THE VEHICLES OR PEOPLE IN FRONT OF IS. AFTER LOOKING ONLINE I VERIFIED THAT OUR FLOORMATS ARE BOTH SECURED AND DO NOT EXTEND TO THE AREA OF THE PEDAL. INCIDENT 1. WHILE SITTING AT A COMPLETE STOP AT RED LIGHT, HEARD AND FELT ENGINE START TO REV. CAR LURCHED FORWARD, AND I APPLIED LEFT FOOT IN ADDITION TO THE RIGHT WHICH WAS ALREADY ON THE BRAKE IN ATTEMPT TO STOP IT. HAD TO HIT SHIFTER INTO NEUTRAL TO REGAIN CONTROL ONLY A FOOT OR 2 FROM THE CAR IN FRONT. MISTAKENLY THOUGHT IT WAS AN ISOLATED INCIDENT. INCIDENT 2 TODAY-- WHILE SLOWING TO A RED LIGHT BY APPLICATION OF BRAKES WITH RIGHT FOOT, ENGINE REVVED UP TO APPROX. 3000 RPM AND TRIED ACCELERATING US INTO VEHICLES IN FRONT OF US. AGAIN- ONLY SHIFTING INTO NEUTRAL BROUGHT VEHICLE UNDER CONTROL.. INCIDENT 3 - APPROX 20 MIN AFTER INCIDENT 2 ON WAY HOME ( SUNDAY AFTERNOON)WHILE BRAKING TO A STOP AT RED LIGHT. NO VEHICLES IN FRONT BY PEOPLE ENTERING THE CROSSWALK. HEARD AND FELT ENGINE START TO ACCELERATE. IMMEDIATE ADDITION OF RIGHT FOOT TO THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR AND THE ACCELERATION STOPPED WITHOUT SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL THIS TIME. VEHICLE IS PARKED AWAITING REPLY FROM TOYOTA. CHECKED TOYOTA WEBSITE AND IT SAYS THERE ARE NO OPEN RECALLS OR SERVICE CAMPAIGNS FOR THIS VIN.
Suspension
Filed Jan 4, 2018150,000 milesTX
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING 35 MPH, A LOUD WOBBLING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE ALSO SHOOK. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY AND STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL A TOYOTA DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED BY THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO TEJAS TOYOTA (19011 US-59, HUMBLE, TX 77338, (281) 446-0271) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT RELATED TO A RECALL; HOWEVER, THE SUSPENSION ARM WAS LOOSE ALONG WITH THE BOLTS. THE REAR SUSPENSION ARMS WERE REPLACED, AN ALIGNMENT WAS COMPLETED, AND THE ARMS WERE LOCKED WITH EPOXY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V383000 (SUSPENSION) ON SEPTEMBER 22, 2015. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A CASE WAS OPENED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V596000 (SUSPENSION). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000. *TT *TR
Power Train
Filed Dec 14, 201775,000 milesCA
MY VEHICLE IS LISTED AS 4 WHEEL DRIVE WHEN DRIVING IN SNOWY CONDITIONS THE CAR WILL KICK OUT OF 4 WHEEL DRIVE IF I REACH 25 MILES AN HOUR. WAS DRIVING IN HEAVY SNOW AND THE CAR WAS CONSTANTLY KICKING OUT AS MY TIRES WERE SLIPPING WHICH WERE NEW TIRES. I WAS THEN DRIVING IN LIGHT SNOW AND HAD TURNED ON THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE AS SOON AS GOT CLOSE TO 25 MPH IT KICKED OUT AGAIN.
Complaints 1-50 of 327, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the RAV4 years to avoid. Owners filed 327 complaints, against about 287 for a typical RAV4 year. The most common complaint is about the throttle and acceleration (27%).
What is the most common problem with the 2009 Toyota RAV4?
The throttle and acceleration: 88 of the 327 complaints (27%) are about it. Owners most often say it accelerates on its own (30%), drops into neutral (24%) and jerks, lurches or bucks (11%). The typical report comes at 10,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2009 Toyota RAV4 have?
15 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 12, 2016. The largest, 12V491000, covered 2,519,424 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2009 Toyota RAV4 problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 26,000 miles. For the throttle and acceleration the midpoint is 10,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2009 Toyota RAV4?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, EA12006 ("Power Window Master Switch Fire"), was opened Jun 14, 2012 and closed Feb 12, 2013.
Are there service bulletins for the 2009 Toyota RAV4?
The manufacturer filed 287 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the body and frame (49), the engine (36) 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
A high number of complaints describe fires or crashes.
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.