2007 Toyota RAV4
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 1,003 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 26 RAV4 model years with reports.
Of the 2007 reports, 53 involved a crash and 37 involved a fire. 41 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Suspension, rearAug 12, 2016
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.
Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 16V596000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, seat heater/coolerJun 2, 2016
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.
If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
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.
Campaign 16V396000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/otherFeb 19, 2016
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.
A cut seat belt may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.
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.
Campaign 16V096000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, power window devices and controlsOct 22, 2015
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 15V689000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, seat heater/coolerNov 19, 2014
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 14V743000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, driver side, inflator moduleApr 9, 2014
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 14V168000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearAug 28, 2013
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.
Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 13V383000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, power window devices and controlsOct 10, 2012
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.
If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.
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.
Campaign 12V491000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearAug 2, 2012
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.
Failure of the rear tie rod could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 12V373000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsApr 21, 2011
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.
INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE CONTAINING IMPROVED ROLL RATE SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. TOYOTA INTENDS TO SEND AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS EARLY TO MID-MAY, 2011 WHEN SUFFICIENT PARTS AND REMEDY BECOMES AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 11V245000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed control, accelerator pedalFeb 24, 2011
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 11V113000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsFeb 3, 2010
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.
A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
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.
Campaign 10V036000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsFeb 3, 2010
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.
THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
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.
Campaign 10V035000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsJun 15, 2009
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."
INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
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.
Campaign 09V223000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
236 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Jan 11, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV-4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PISTONS IN THE ENGINE FAILED AND THE ENGINE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED WITH EITHER A NEW ONE OR A REBUILT ONE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 50,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 128,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Engine, Aug 31, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV-4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER PERFORMING AN OIL CHANGE ON THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT OIL LEVEL HAD DIMINISHED DRASTICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS WORKING NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER IN ORDER TO HAVE AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST DONE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,000.
Engine, Aug 23, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV-4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND THE MOTOR BECAME INOPERABLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE WAS THAT THE MOTOR OIL WAS ABNORMALLY LOW AND DAMAGED THE ENGINE. THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND WHO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT UNDER ANY WARRANTY AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 99,000. ....UPDATED 10/11/12 *BF UPDATED 10/16/2012*JS
Engine, Aug 17, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE DEALER REQUESTED A TOYOTA ENGINEER COME TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE IN AN ATTEMPT TO FIND THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000. UPDATED 08/29/12*LJ
Air bags, Engine, Aug 7, 2012, crash, fire
MY WIFE WAS DRIVING A 2007 RVA 4 LIMITED WHEN THE CAR AHEAD OF HER SUDDENLY STOPPED. SPEED WAS 25 TO 30 MPH IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC. SHE BRAKED AND COLLIDED WITH THE CAR AHEAD OF HER. MY WIFE WAS ABLE TO CATCH HERSELF AND WAS SITTING UP RIGHT WHEN THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THERE WAS A DELAY IN THE AIRBAGS BY SEVERAL SECONDS AFTER THE FRONT COLLISION. SOON AFTER THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, THICK BLACK SMOKE CAME UP THROUGH THE STEERING COLUMN. MY WIFE EVACUATED THE CAR AND WITHIN FIVE MINUTES THE CAR WAS TOTALLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. I AM CONCERNED ON THE DELAY IN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND THE FIRE AND SPEED AT WHICH IT SPREAD. WE LOVED OUR RAV BUT HAVE A CONCERN ABOUT BUYING ANY TOYOTA PRODUCT. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, May 2, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV 4. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN OVER 1,000 MILES, THE ENGINE WOULD CONSUME ONE-HALF A QUART OF ENGINE OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ISSUE WAS NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 75,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 19, 2012
WITHIN 4000 MILES OF OIL & FILTER CHANGE THE OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT COMES ON. THERE HAS BEEN NO EVIDENCE OF LEAKAGE (DROPS ON GROUND OR BUILD UP ON ENGINE COMPONENTS) AND NO EVIDENCE OF BURNING UP OIL (SMOKE OR SMELL). ONLINE RESEARCH REVEALS A TOYOTA TECHNICAL BULLETIN SB0094-11 ENTITLED EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION WHICH DETAILS AN ACCEPTABLE OIL USAGE LEVEL OF 1 QUART EVERY 1200 MILES. THIS MAY HAVE BEEN ACCEPTABLE IN A CAR BUILT IN 1940, BUT IT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE IN A CAR DESIGNED TO GO 5000 MILES BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION CAN LEAD TO EXCESSIVE ENGINE HEAT AND WEAR CAUSING FAILURE AT HIGH SPEED WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. AS TOYOTA IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE YET NOT DOING ENOUGH TO REMEDY IT, I AM REPORTING IT HERE TO HOPEFULLY BE INVESTIGATED. *JS
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 26, 2012, fire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE CONTACT SMELLED A BURNING ODOR AND MANEUVERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE FLOORBOARD CARPET AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE SEAT WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE AND A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THERE WAS NO PERSONAL INJURY. THE CONTACT STATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, A LOUD NOISE AND A LEAK EMITTED FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A SAVAGE FACILITY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000. UPDATED 5/11/12 *CN THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE MUFFLER OR THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER OVERHEATED AND SET THE BACK RUNNER MAT ON FIRE, AS IT WAS DIRECTLY UNDER THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE VEHICLE BECAME FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES IN A MATTER OF MINUTES. UPDATED 05/31/12
Steering, Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Electrical system, Visibility, Feb 14, 2012, fire
I PURCHASED A NEW 2007 RAV4 FROM TOYOTA OF BRAINTREE IN 2007. 1. IN 2009 I COULD HEAR WIND IN THE DRIVER'S WINDOW; I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO BE CHECKED, TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT SAID I WAS HEARING THINGS. 2.THE DRIVER'S DOOR CAUGHT FIRE (I HAD THE KEYS WITH ME) I HAD TO SPEND $606.01 TO FIX IT, TOYOTA SAID THERE WAS WATER INTRUSION (I THOUGHT, IT PROBABLY WAS, BECAUSE OF THE AIR LEAK PREVIOUSLY REPORTED IN 2009) 3. THE STEERING WHEEL FELT STRANGE WHEN I DROVE, I TOOK IT BACK FOR SERVICE, THE DIAGNOSIS WAS STEERING SHAFT INTERNAL FAILURE WHICH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED; I FOUGHT TO GET THAT FIXED OUT OF WARRANTY. 5. ON NOVEMBER 25, 2011 I WAS DRIVING, THE WINDOW FELL IN ON ME AND ON NOVEMBER 26, 2011, I HAD TO HAVE THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW REGULATOR REPLACED FOR $338.30 7. NOW, OIL IS LEAKING INTO THE MUFFLER. (I PURCHASE OIL FREQUENTLY) THIS VEHICLE IS ONLY 4.5 YEARS OLD AND SHOULD NOT HAVE ANY OF THESE MAJOR PROBLEMS, WHEN I PURCHASED THIS RAV4, IT WAS GOING TO BE MY LAST VEHICLE PURCHASE BECAUSE TOYOTA ADVERTISES LONGEVITY OF THEIR PRODUCTS. I ALSO KNOW PEOPLE WHO DRIVE 1990 AND 1995 TOYOTA PRODUCTS WHO HAVE NEVER HAD ANY OF THESE PROBLEMS. I WAS ALSO TREATED VERY POORLY DURING SOME OF MY REPAIR VISITS. AFTER THE DOOR CAUGHT ON FIRE, I HAD A MEETING WITH THE OWNER OF TOYOTA OF BRAINTREE, [XXX] BUT HIS RESOLUTION WAS GIVING ME $13,000.00 FOR MY VEHICLE (WHICH I OWN) AND ME PURCHASING A BRAND NEW VEHICLE, WHICH MEANT I WOULD HAVE A MONTHLY PAYMENT. I DID CONTACT TOYOTA HEADQUARTERS IN CALIFORNIA AND FILED A COMPLAINT AND NEVER RECEIVED ANY RESOLUTION. SINCE THEN I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR DISPUTE SETTLEMENT STATING THEY CAN'T HELP ME. THANK YOU FOR ANY ASSISTANCE, SINCERELY, TOYOTA RAV4 OWNER. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).*TR
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Feb 10, 2012
TRANSMISSION DEVELOPED AN ANNOYING WHINE FROM 40 TO 60 MPH. VERY DISTRACTING WHILE DRIVING BECAUSE OF THE HIGH PITCH NOISE IT MAKES INSIDE THE CABIN. BIG DISAPPOINTMENT! *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 30, 2011
VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT NEW AND HAD 148MILES ON IT WHEN DELIVERED AS IT WAS DELIVERED TO ME FROM ANOTHER DEALERSHIP. FOR THE PAST 20,000 MILES IT HAS BEEN USING 3-4 QUARTS OF OIL BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. TOYOTA KNOWS THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH THESE VEHICLES AND HAS A TSB 0094-11 TO FIX THE DESIGN FLAW. THIS "FIX" BASICALLY REBUILDS THE ENGINE WITH NEW PISTONS, RINGS AND CRANKS. CALLED THE DEALER WHEN I SAW THIS TSB AND TOLD THEM I HAD 59923 MILES ON VEHICLE SO I'LL BE OVER THE WARRANTY BY THE TIME I BRING IT IN AND WAS TOLD IT WAS NO PROBLEM. DROPPED OFF VEHICLE WITH 60114 MILES ON IT AND THEY STARTED AN OIL CONSUMPTION TEST BY FIRST FILLING THE OIL. IT TOOK 3 1/2 QUARTS JUST TO TOP IT OFF. NEED TO GO BACK IN 1200 MILES TO CONFIRM THAT IT IS USING OIL BUT THEY TOLD ME THE WARRANTY WILL NOT BE VALID AND I WOULD NEED TO PAY FOR ANY REPAIRS OUT OF POCKET. TOYOTA USES THIS ENGINE IN MANY DIFFERENT VEHICLES AND A SEARCH ONLINE FINDS THAT THERE ARE QUITE A FEW PEOPLE WITH THIS PROBLEM BUT TOYOTA WILL DO NOTHING ABOUT IT. *KB
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Electronic stability control (ESC), Dec 5, 2011
2007 RAV 4 HAD 3 LIGHTS TURNED ON (CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT AND 4 WHEEL DRIVE LIGHT), SHORTLY AFTER THE LIGHTS CAME ON, THE BRAKES FAILED. RAV4 WAS TAKEN TO TOYOTA DELEARSHIP FOR REPAIR AND AFTER THE TECHNICIANS BEING CONFUSED BY THE LIGHTS, THEY DETERMINED THAT THE BRAKE BOOSTER HAD FAILED. THIS ISSUE IS SIMILAR TO THE RECENT HIGHLINDER RECALL AND I FEEL PEOPLE'S SAFETY IS AT STAKE WITH THE BRAKES FAILING. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 27, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV-4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF SMOKE WAS RELEASED FROM THE TAIL PIPE WHEN FIRST STARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS BURNING 1.1 QUARTS OF OIL EVERY 2,300 MILES. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THE FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO A MANUFACTURING DEFECT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS RECOMMENDED TO HAVE AN OIL CHANGE PERFORMED EVERY 5,000 MILES AND THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD DESTROY THE ENGINE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THAT THE OIL CONSUMPTION WAS NORMAL AND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED TO BURN 1 QUART OF OIL EVERY 1,200 MILES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 40,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Service brakes, Sep 19, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV 4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE POSTERIOR OXYGEN SENSOR WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. TWO DAYS LATER, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED AGAIN AND THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED BRAKE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE BOOSTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 27,000. UPDATED 11/03/11 *BF UPDATED 05/12/2012 *JS
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 30, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH THE INSTRUMENTAL PANEL LIGHTS ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE MIGHT HAVE CAUSED THE FAILURE, BUT THEY WILL FURTHER DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER TOOK REPORT 1008300034 AND WILL CHECK WITH THE DEALERSHIP. THE CURRENT AND THE FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 44,000.
Engine and engine cooling, May 6, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS OF 30 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN UNUSUAL NOISE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT THEN ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER ADVISED THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT CONFIRMED THAT THE LOW OIL LEVEL WARNING LIGHT NEVER ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER THEN INFORMED HER THAT THEY WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO REPAIR HER VEHICLE AND THAT SHE SHOULD RETRIEVE IT FROM THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT WOULD NOT PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 49,411.
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 21, 2010
THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM THAT HAS EXISTED SINCE I OWNED THE VEHICLE. MORE THEN HALF THE TIME WHEN I STEP DOWN ON THE GAS HARD, MY VEHICLE NEARLY STALLS, SEVERE HESITATION, THEN SLOWLY RECOVERS AND APPLIES POWER. THIS WOULD BE WHEN YOU HAVE TO PASS A CAR ON A TWO LANE ROAD OR MERGE INTO HEAVY TRAFFIC. IT IS HARD TO KNOW IF IT WILL BE THERE WHEN I NEED IT OR IF I WILL HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE ENGINE TO CATCH UP. I HAVE REPORTED IT TO THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT MULTIPLE TIMES; THEY HAVE TEST DROVE IT, HAD A FACTORY REP. LOOK AT IT AND AT COMPUTER PRINTOUTS. THEY ADMIT THERE IS A PROBLEM BUT DON'T SEEM TO KNOW HOW OR WANT TO FIX IT. I THOUGHT I SHOULD REPORT IT, SINCE THE INFORMATION COMING OUT NOW IS TOYOTA SEEMS TO LIKE TO HIDE THE SAFETY PROBLEMS WITH THEIR VEHICLES. I FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE SINCE I CAN'T DEPEND ON THE VEHICLE WHEN I MIGHT MOST NEED IT TO GET OUT OF THE WAY. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Vehicle speed control, Mar 10, 2010, crash
UNCONTROLLED AND UNCOMMANDED AUTO ACCELERATION OF TOYOTA 2007 RAV4 WITH SUBSEQUENT IMPACT INTO RETAINING WALL, DAMAGES IN EXCESS OF $3000.00. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 2, 2010
ENGINE OIL LEAK OVER SEVERAL WEEKS. UPON OPENING THE OIL FILL CAP, THE REST OF THE OIL CAME OUT THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR. I WAS FORCED TO HAVE IT CARRIED TO THE DEALER BECAUSE OF THAT. THE DEALER INFORMED ME THAT IT IS V V T I HOSE ON ENGINE BANK 1 THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, THAT TOYOTA KNEW OF THE PROBLEM BUT THEY NEVER RECALLED TO FIX THE CARS, THEY FIXED THEM AS CUSTOMERS BROUGHT THEM IN (ACCORDING TO BULLETIN). IT TOOK ABOUT 10 DAYS TO FIX. A MECHANIC I KNOW WHO SAW THE INVOICE TOLD ME THAT TOYOTA REPLACED ALMOST HALF THE BOTTOM OF THE ENGINE( REPLACED BANK VTI HOSE, BOTH V V T I GEARS, CAM SHAFTS AND HOUSING A TOTAL OF 31 PARTS. I DID NOT HAVE TO PAY , BUT I WAS VERY UPSET AT TOYOTA FOR KNOWING THAT A PROBLEM EXISTED BUT DID NOT ALERTED CUSTOMERS. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Vehicle speed control, Feb 25, 2010
UNINTENDED RAPID ACCELERATION. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 25, 2010
2007 TOYOTA RAV4. CONSUMER STATES DISSATISFACTION RELATED TO THE REPLACEMENT OF A DEFECTIVE OIL LINE. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED SHE DID NOT EXPERIENCE A FAILURE BUT WANTED THE OIL LINE REPLACED FOR SAFETY REASONS, BECAUSE IT COULD CAUSE CATASTROPHIC DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE AND SHE DRIVES MANY MILES EACH DAY WEEK FOR WORK. THE CONSUMER PAID THE DEALER TO REPLACE THE PART, BUT THEY DECIDED TO REPLACE IT WITH ANOTHER RUBBER OIL LINE INSTEAD OF THE ALL METAL LINE WHICH SHE HAD REQUESTED. *JB
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 10, 2010
WE BOUGHT OUR TOYOTA, A NEW 2007/4430C RAV4 (5-DOOR 4X2 SUV), ON 9/7/07, AND HAVE NOTICED SEVERAL PROBLEMS IN THE OPERATION OF THIS VEHICLE. OUR RAV4 CURRENTLY HAS AROUND 24,000 MILES ON IT, AND THE PROBLEMS HAVE NEITHER INCREASED NOR DECREASED IN FREQUENCY. BECAUSE THESE PROBLEMS ARE INTERMITTENT, OUR DEALER, DUNNING TOYOTA OF ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN, WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE WHAT WE EXPERIENCE. HOWEVER, WE BELIEVE THAT DOCUMENTING THIS SITUATION IS IMPORTANT AS PROBLEMS'SOME OF WHICH SOUND SIMILAR TO WHAT WE HAVE EXPERIENCED'ARE CURRENTLY SURFACING ON OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES. PROBLEMS WE HAVE EXPERIENCED EVER SINCE WE HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE INCLUDE: (1) INTERMITTENT ENGINE SURGES. THESE OCCUR WHEN ACCELERATING, BRAKING, OR SIMPLY COASTING. THE RPM NEEDLE VISIBLY FLUCTUATES, AND PASSENGERS CAN FEEL THE SURGING AND 'CHOKING' OF THE ENGINE. (2) THE GAS PEDAL SOMETIMES DOES NOT SMOOTHLY ENGAGE, AND THE CAR 'JUMPS' AHEAD WHEN THE PEDAL SEEMS TO FINALLY ENGAGE. (3) OCCASIONALLY THE CAR DOES NOT SEEM TO SLOW WHEN THE BRAKE IS APPLIED. IN THE WINTER OF 2008, I WAS TRAVELING AT A LOW SPEED (BEGINNING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP) ON SLICK PAVEMENT WHEN THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME UNEXPECTEDLY STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION. I IMMEDIATELY APPLIED THE BRAKE BUT THE CAR DID NOT SEEM TO SLOW DOWN. THE RESULTING COLLISION RESULTED IN $615.63 IN DAMAGE TO OUR VEHICLE. I DO NOT KNOW THE EXACT DATE OF THE ACCIDENT. THE POLICE WERE NOTIFIED BUT NO TICKETS WERE ISSUED. I JUST PUT AN ARBITRARY MONTH AND DATE BELOW SO I COULD CONTINUE TO THE NEXT PAGE OF THIS REPORT. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 1, 2010
I BOUGHT THE BRAND NEW 2007 RAV4 LIMITED V6 FROM CHICAGO GROSSINGER TOYOTA 2 AND 1/2 YEARS AGO. THERE WAS SOME BOILING WATER NOISE COMING OUT FROM THE ENGINE AT AROUND 28K MILES. I TOOK THE RAV4 TO THE CGT DEALER FOR REPAIR SINCE IT WAS STILL UNDER THE WARRANTY. THE CUSTOMER SERVICE REP. TOLD ME THAT THE REASON WHY THE ENGINE HAD SOME BOILING WATER NOISE BECAUSE THE CAMSHAFT WAS BENDED. HE LIED! HE DIDN'T EVEN TELL ME THAT THE OIL HOSE WAS THE CAUSE OF THE DAMAGE. THE NOISE PROBLEM WAS FIXED (HOPEFULLY) BUT I DON'T KNOW IF THE ACTUAL PROBLEM IS STILL GOING OR NOT BECAUSE I FOUND THERE WERE A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM THAT I HAD ONLINE. MOST COMPLAINTS SAID THAT THE PROBLEM WAS BECAUSE THE OIL PIPE WAS MADE WITH HALF RUBBER/METAL. THE RUBBER PART WILL SOON BE CRACKED DUE TO THE WEATHER OR SOMETHING. I CALLED THE CGT CUSTOMER REP TO VERIFY THIS PROBLEM AND THEN HE TOLD ME THAT MY CAR MIGHT HAVE THAT PROBLEM AND HE WAS AWARE OF THAT SO HE TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD SWITCHED OIL PIPE TO METAL. HE LIED AGAIN! I CHECKED IT AND THE OIL PIPE IS STILL MADE WITH HALF RUBBER AND METAL. HE SEEMS LIKE COVERING SOMETHING. I BELIEVE THIS PROBLEM HAS HAD BEEN EXISTING FOR A LONG TIME BUT TOYOTA NEVER DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE. TOYOTA HAS TO BE LIABLE OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS SAFETY IF THEIR PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 23, 2009
2007 TOYOTA RAV 4: ENGINETYPE V6 1) DRIVING CAR ON HIGHWAY AT NIGHT, STOPPED AT LIGHT, SMELLED OIL BURNING THOUGHT SMELL WAS FROM OTHER VEHICLES. CONTINUED TO DRIVE WHEN STOPPED AT NEXT STOP LIGHT SMELLED OIL BURNING, SAW LIGHT TRAILS OF SMOKE AROUND HEAD LIGHTS. WATCHED GAUGES AND GOT THE CAR HOME. 2) SHUT OF ENGINE RAISED HOOD AND REMOVED PLASTIC ENGINE COVER. SAW OIL WAS ALL OVER THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT OF ENGINE NEAR FIRE WALL AND WHEEL ON WELL COVER. HAD WIFE START CAR, SAW OIL SQUIRTING IN A SMALL STREAM FROM A RUBBER HOSE ATTACHED TO METAL PIPE. THE PIPE THE HOSE WAS ATTACHED TO WAS ATTACHED TO ENGINES CYLINDER HEAD NEXT TO FIRE WALL AT THE FRONT OF THE CYLINDER HEAD. 3) I HAVE HAD THE CAR SINCE DEC. 2007 WHEN IT WAS BRAND NEW IT NOW HAS 80,000. MILES. I TALKED TO THE LOCAL DEALER ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC FAILURE, I WAS TOLD THERE WAS A BULLETIN FOR THIS PROBLEM. I GAVE THE DEALER MY VIN AND MILEAGE, I WAS TOLD MY VIN WAS NOT ON THE LIST AND MY MILES WERE WELL OVER THE VEHICLES WARRANTY LIMIT OF 3 YEARS OR 36,000 MILES. I WAS TOLD IF I WANTED A QUOTE I WOULD NEED TO GET IT TOWED IN AND THEY WOULD GIVE ME A QUOTE FOR THE WORK. AT THIS TIME BASED ON ALL THE INFORMATION STILL AM INVESTIGATING MY OPTIONS FOR THIS REPAIR TO ATTEMPT TO REDUCE MY COSTS. THE REPAIR OF THIS FAILED OIL LINE ENTAILS THE REMOVAL OF THE COMPLETE FAILED OIL LINE END TO END AND THE INSTALLATION OF A COMPLETE METAL PIPE ASSEMBLY. SO FAR I AM FINDING THIS FAILURE SEEMS TO BE A QUITE COMMON WITH THIS MODEL ENGINE WITH THIS OIL LINE CONFIGURATION. BASED ON THIS FAILURE AND THAT IT IS A KNOW PROBLEM WITH TOYOTA, I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT I'M STUCK WITH ALL THE COSTS. PLUS I COULD FOR SEE IN SOME FAILURES ONE MIGHT NOT DETECT THE PROBLEM THUS EXPERIENCING A FULL ENGINE FAILURE. I WOULD HAVE TO BELIEVE IF IT IS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY, YOU'LL NEVER RECEIVE A COMPLAINT ON THIS PROBLEM. FROM A CROSS SECTIONAL POINT, YOUR ONLY EXPERIENCING THOSE OF US TRAPPED WITH A DESIGN FLAW. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 25, 2009
2007 TOYOTA RAV4 V-6 MANUFACTURING DEFECT WITH THE OIL LINE OF THE VVT-I CAMSHAFT. POOR QUALITY OF RUBBER LINE HAS CAUSED MULTIPLE FAILURES WHICH HAS RESULTED IN CATASTROPHIC ENGINE DAMAGE, ENGINE FIRES. TOYOTA IS CONDUCTING VOLUNTARY RECALLS WITH CERTAIN VIN'S, HOWEVER THIS VOLUNTARY RECALL DOES NOT ADEQUATELY ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. TOYOTA KNOWS OF THIS MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND HAS REDESIGNED OIL LINE ACCORDINGLY, BUT IS NOT OFFERING THIS REDESIGNED OIL LINE TO CUSTOMERS AFFECTED BY ORIGINAL DEFECT. *TR