2015 Toyota RAV4
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 304 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 14th highest complaint count among 26 RAV4 model years with reports.
Of the 2015 reports, 37 involved a crash and 41 involved a fire. 30 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Electrical system, 12v/24v/48v batteryNov 1, 2023
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 27, 2024, to 2013-2014 RAV4 owners. Additional owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, phase 2 will begin on May 14, 2025, and phase 3 in late July 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
Campaign 23V734000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, electric power assist systemMar 13, 2015
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2015 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid, and 2014-2015 Rav4 vehicles. A component of the electric power steering (EPS) electronic control unit (ECU) may have been damaged during the manufacturing process. Over time, this damage may result in failure of the electric power steering system.
An unexpected loss of power steering increases the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the serial number of the EPS ECU or steering column assembly. If the number is within the affected range, the EPS ECU will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 15V144000 on NHTSA.gov
Trailer hitchesJan 16, 2015
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Toyota Rav4 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2013, to December 29, 2014, and equipped with an accessory trailer light module. The software within the module may incorrectly detect an electrical short and preventively turn off the electrical current and the trailer lights.
If the system incorrectly detects an electrical short and turns off the trailer lights while the trailer is being towed at night, there is an increased risk of a crash.
SET will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer light module with a new unit with corrected software, free of charge. The recall began on March 17, 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET-15A.
Campaign 15V011000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentDec 30, 2014
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, RAV4, Scion FRS, and XB vehicles. The affected vehicles may have accessories installed by SET, such as running boards or other items, that were incorrectly installed. The accessory attaching fasteners were not tightened with the proper torque, possibly causing the accessory to detach from the vehicle.
Accessories that detach from a vehicle may result in a vehicle crash and/or personal injury.
SET will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and tighten the affected bolts, free of charge. The recall began February 23, 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET-14B.
Campaign 14V828000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: structure
31 reports, newest first. Show all
Structure, Aug 19, 2026
In July 2026, the rear power liftgate on my Toyota RAV4 suddenly stopped operating properly and would not close. I was unable to push the hatch down normally and then noticed that one of the hinges appeared bent and the liftgate was misaligned. Because I needed to close the vehicle, I tried to lower the hatch very slowly, moving it down only a small amount at a time so I would not put additional pressure on the damaged hinge. While I was doing this, the hatch suddenly sprang back upward and struck me in the shoulder. It took approximately 15 minutes of carefully working with the hatch before I was finally able to get it closed. One hinge was replaced for $400, but after the liftgate was opened only about three times, the hinge became bent again and the hatch was once again visibly misaligned. I have since received an estimate of approximately $3,000 because I was told that multiple components may need to be replaced. At this point I am not opening the liftgate for fear that the broken parts will become worse. The problem has not been successfully repaired and no one has been able to explain why the replacement hinge failed almost immediately. I am concerned that the liftgate may unexpectedly move, fail to close or latch properly, or strike someone while they are attempting to operate it. This appears to be a recurring failure rather than normal wear and tear.
Structure, May 19, 2026
Purchased less than 2 months ago from Performance Mitsubishi in Delray Beach FL. Lift gate was not opening and closing properly. Yesterday the hinges broke and lift gate won't shut. It appears there is a class action lawsuit for this issue. I am now responsible for fixing this because the dealership won't.
Structure, Jul 23, 2025
Request for Resolution -Peeling Paint on 2025 Toyota RAV 4 I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding a paint peeling issue with my 2025 Toyota RAV 4 and Toyota's refusal to address the defect, despite timely reporting and documentation. The paint on my vehicle began peeling around February 2024 and significantly worsened by January 2025. I promptly filed two complaints with Toyota, and case numbers were opened. Per Toyota's request, I obtained a repair estimate from Toyota of Katy (attached) and submitted it through their system. However, Toyota has since closed both cases without resolving the issue, stating that the paint repair program expired in November 2024. This is particularly troubling because the issue was reported while the paint damage was progressing, I believe this reflects a serious quality defect that affects the appearance, durability, and resale value of the vehicle, and Toyota is failing to take appropriate responsibility. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this matter and consider whether similar complaints exist from other Toyota owners experiencing premature paint peeling. Thank you for your attention to this matter
Structure, Sep 22, 2024
Paint on the top my car is peeling.
Structure, Jun 13, 2023
Paint is flaking at the upper doors
Electrical system, Structure, Aug 4, 2022
The power hatch door liftgate support rods problems. The hatch door won't close. This is the third times. First two times were under warranty, this time is after warranty. The liftgate must have mechanical or design problem when manufacturing. If the hatch back door suddenly drop, it will hurt my head or body when I try to reach my trunks.
Structure, May 21, 2022
About three months ago the liftgate on my 2015 Toyota RAV4 SUV, suddenly started not wanting to close properly as if the door shock absorbers had slipped out of place. I clarify that at no time has my vehicle been impacted, forced or stolen. The moment I opened the door with the button, once I went to close it, it stayed open, causing my vehicle to get wet inside every time it rains. I can not park it in open places because they can force the door that is left open and they can steal it. There are times when the door opens but doesn't want to close, and other times it just doesn't want to open. I understand that I have taken very good care of my vehicle and this is an essential part of it. I hope you can give me a quick solution on this. Thanksyou!
Structure, Apr 15, 2021
THE ROOF'S COLOR IS PEELING OFF.
Structure, Mar 20, 2021
THE PAINT IS PEELING MY 2015 BLUE RAV, I HAVE VISITED MARK JACOBSEN TOYOTA IN DURHAM NC. SPOKE TO THE BODY SHOP, THEY SAID THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE THEY ARE SEEING ON THE WHITE CARS THAT ARE BEING REPAINTED PER THE LETTER ON YOUR WEBSITE HTTPS://STATIC.NHTSA.GOV/ODI/TSBS/2019/MC-10170749-9999.PDF THEY SAID AT THIS TIME TOYOTA IS NOT FIXING MY PEELING PAINT BECAUSE IT ISN'T WHITE. HE SUGGESTED I CALL THE NATIONAL HOTLINE, WHICH I DID AND FILE A CLAIM 21031900209 BUT THEY ALSO SAID THEY ARE ONLY FIXING WHITE PEELING PAINT. I THINK THEM FOR THEIR TIME AND REQUESTED TO SPEAK TO A SUPERVISOR- THEY HAVE NOT CALLED ME BACK YET.
Structure, Mar 6, 2021
OUR MOON ROOF HAS COME LOOSE FROM ROOF ON TWO OCASIONS. DEALERSHIP HAS REPAIRED TWICE AT NO CHARGE TO US, BUT NO EXPLANATION AS TO WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. THE FIRST INDICATION BOTH TIMES WAS A RATTLE THAT SLOWLY BECOMES WORSE.
Structure, Feb 8, 2021
THE PAINT ON THE PANEL ABOVE THE CAR HAS BEGAN TO BUBBLE UP AND TEAR OFF. THE PAINT CONTINUES TO COME OFF. THE PAINT BEGAN COMING OFF IN A CHUNK THAT WAS ABOUT 2' BY 3'.
Electrical system, Air bags, Structure, Jan 10, 2021, crash
I WAS ENTERING TRAFFIC FROM A STOP SIGN AND COLLIDED WITH A BLACK CAR AT NIGHT THAT DID NOT HAVE IT'S HEADLIGHTS ON. THEIR AIR BAG DEPLOYED, - MINE DID NOT. CITY OF RALEIGH, NC. STREETS.
Electrical system, Structure, Jan 10, 2021, crash
I WAS ENTERING TRAFFIC FROM A STOP SIGN AND COLLIDED WITH A BLACK CAR AT NIGHT TIME THAT DID NO HAVE IT'S HEADLIGHTS ON. CITY OF RALEIGH, NC. STREETS.
Structure, Dec 2, 2020
THE POWER LIFTGATE OF THIS MODEL FAILS TO OPEN IN COLD WEATHER. DIFFICULT TO OPEN AND CLOSE WHEN UTILIZING THE MANUAL OVER-RIDE BUTTON.
Structure, Nov 12, 2020
LIFT GATE STRUT IS CAUSING MISALIGNMENT OF THE LIFT GATE, SO LIFT GATE SHIFTING AND UNABLE TO OPEN.
Structure, Nov 1, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 TOYOTA RAV4. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE HOOD FLEW OPEN AND SMASHED THE WINDSHIELD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE RESULTED FROM AN IMPROPER WELDING OF THE HOOD STRIKER PLATE, WHICH CAUSED THE STRIKER PLATE TO FALL OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO STEVE LANDERS TOYOTA (866-584-3934, LOCATED AT 10825 COLONEL GLENN RD, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72204) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED TO CALL THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT IT WAS NOT A KNOWN ISSUE. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1910282935. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 86,000.
Air bags, Structure, May 16, 2019, crash
FRONT END COLLISION- DIRECT HIT-2015 TOYOTO RAVE 4 -AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.CAR A HIT CAR B, CAR A GOING 50, HIT CAR B GOING 15 MPH. CAR B TOTALED
Structure, Mar 22, 2019
I TOOK THE CAR IN FOR AN OIL CHANGE. WHEN THE TECHNICIAN OPENED THE HOOD, HE DISCOVERED THAT THE STRIKER FOR THE HOOD LATCH HAD BROKEN FREE OF THE FACTORY WELDS THAT HOLD IT IN PLACE, RENDERING THE LATCH INOPERABLE. WHILE I HAVE OWNED THE CAR, THERE HAS BEEN NO DAMAGE OR BLOWS TO THE FRONT END OR HOOD. THERE ARE NO MARKS OR SIGNS OF DAMAGE AT ALL. THE STRIKER HAS SIMPLY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE HOOD. IT APPEARS THAT THE FACTORY WELDS JUST FAILED. I HAVE NO WAY OF KNOWING WHEN OR HOW IT HAPPENED.
Electrical system, Structure, Engine, Oct 7, 2018, fire
CAR STALLED SO I PULLED OVER. THERE WAS SMOKING UNDER THE HOOD. WITHIN MINUTES IT TURNED INTO A BIG FIRE. FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO BE CALLED.
Structure, Dec 26, 2017
AFTER BEING PARKED IN CARPORT OVERNIGHT ON A WINTER NIGHT IN DEC 2017, I DROVE ONLY A COUPLE OF MILES DOWN THE I-15 FREEWAY IN UTAH BETWEEN SPANISH FORK AND SPRINGVILLE NO MORE THAN 60 MPH WHEN I HEARD A LOUD 'EXPLODING SOUND' ON THE TOP OF MY CAR OUTSIDE AND THEN 'TINKLING' NOISES FROM THE FRONT OF THE ROOF AREA TO THE BACK OF THE CAR. IT HAPPENED AT 0900 ON A COLD SUNDAY MORNING AND THE TRAFFIC WAS EXTREMELY LIGHT. THE NEAREST VEHICLES TO ME WERE AT LEAST 10 CAR LENGTHS AHEAD AND BEHIND ME AND THERE WERE NO VEHICLES ON EITHER SIDE OF ME. THERE WAS NO VISIBLE ROAD HAZARD AND NO ICE FALLING FROM ANYWHERE SINCE WE HAD HAD NO WINTER WEATHER OF ANY KIND SO FAR THAT SEASON. WHEN I WAS ABLE TO STOP AND EXAMINE THE DAMAGE, THERE WAS A GIANT HOLE IN THE MIDDLE OF MY MOON/SUN ROOF. IT HAD MYSTERIOUSLY EXPLODED WITH JAGGED EDGES JETTING UPWARDS WITH SHARDS OF SHATTERED GLASS LITTERING THE TOP OF MY CAR AND INSIDE ON THE MOON/SUN ROOF SLIDER INSIDE.
Air bags, Structure, Dec 10, 2017, crash
VEHICLE WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN, WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE WENT THROUGH A 'RED' LIGHT AND HIT IT ON THE RIGHT FENDER. FENDER CAME OFF. OTHER VEHICLE HAD FRONT SMASHED IN AND AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY IN THE TOYOTA. DRIVER WAS WEARING SEATBELT, BUT LACK OF AIRBAG CAUSED DRIVERS ARM AND CHEST TO HIT STEERING WHEEL AND LEGS TO HIT OTHER COMPONENTS.
Structure, Mar 2, 2017
CPSC:THE WIRING ON THE UNDERSIDE OF MY 2015 TOYOTA RAV4 THAT CONTROLS INFORMATION SENT TO THE TRANSMISSION WAS CHEWED THROUGH BY SQUIRRELS. THE CAR WAS LOCATED IN MY DRIVEWAY. IT CAME TO MY ATTENTION THAT WRAPPINGS AROUND THESE WIRES ARE NO LONGER RUBBER. *BF
Structure, Other or unspecified, Oct 27, 2016, crash
TAKATA RECALL. I WOULD LIKE MORE INVESTIGATION REGARDING WHEN A CAR IS REPAIR PER SPECIFICATION AND STATE LAW. HOW IS THAT A COMPANY TAKE CONTROL OF THE VALUE AND HISTORY OF THE CAR. BUT IS NOT REPORTED THE CORRECT WAY WHEN THE REPAIR IS DONE. AFFECTING THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE.
Air bags, Structure, Engine, Mar 6, 2016, fire
THE CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN IN PHILADELPHIA AT A LOW SPEED WHEN THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE QUICKLY WAS OUT OF CONTROL AND DESTROYED MOST OF THE CAR, INCLUDING THE ENGINE, DASHBOARD, FRONT SEATS, WINDSHIELD, WINDOWS, FRONT TIRES WHICH EXPLODED, AND AIRBAGS.
Structure, Feb 11, 2016, crash
I HAD A VERY DANGEROUS EXPERIENCE WITH A 2015 TOYOTARV4 XLE. I WAS GOING UP AN EXIT RAMP SLOWLY WITH THE TRAFFIC GOING AND STOPPING WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN MY RIGHT FOOT WAS STUCK BETWEEN THE ACCELERATOR AND THE BRAKE PEDAL. I COULD NOT RETRACT MY FOOT TO BRAKE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO CONTINUING GOING FORWARD. I BELIEVE THAT THERE IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE BRAKING/ACCELERATION DUE TO THE SHORT SPACE BETWEEN AND OR THE HEIGHT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED BY MANY OTHER DRIVERS THAT I HAVE READ ABOUT AND I AM SURE THIS NOT NEW TO THE TOYOTA COMPANY. I HAVE BEEN IN TOUCH WITH THE TOYOTA CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CENTER AND HAVE FILED A CASE NUMBER.