2019 Toyota RAV4
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Fuel/propulsion system is the leading concern among 879 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 26 RAV4 model years with reports.
Of the 2019 reports, 25 involved a crash and 2 involved a fire. 21 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpNov 4, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
Campaign 20V682000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, electric power assist systemJun 24, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and 2020 RAV4 Hybrid vehicles equipped with electric power steering (EPS). Water may enter through the steering gear box cover and cause a loss of electric power steering assist.
A loss of power steering assist could increase steering effort at low vehicle speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering gear box, free of charge. The recall began August 17, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB11 / 20TA11.
Campaign 20V373000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, front, control arm, lower armMay 20, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. The front lower suspension arms may have cracks, which may result in the suspension arm separating from the front wheel assembly.
If a suspension control arm breaks, it can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms, free of charge. This recall began August 10, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's interim numbers for this recall are 20TB08 / 20TA08.
Campaign 20V286000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingFeb 6, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid and Lexus ES300h and 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles equipped with 2.5L 4-Cylinder engines. Porosity in the engine castings may result in cracks than can allow coolant to leak internally and/or externally.
A coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat and cause a vehicle stall in conventional gasoline vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, for all involved vehicles, the engine may get damaged mechanically, possibly resulting in an engine oil leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the engine including the engine block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 3, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA04. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA02.
Campaign 20V064000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraAug 6, 2019
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Due to a damaged electrical connector, the back-up camera may not activate when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply to Federal Motor Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
If the backup camera system does not activate and the driver does not check his/her surroundings while reversing, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the back-up camera system and replace the audio display unit, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began September 27, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is K0N.
Campaign 19V576000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsJun 28, 2019
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Toyota Camry, Corolla, Rav4, Sienna, and Yaris iA vehicles equipped with factory-installed floor mats. The load carrying capacity modification label may be incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
SET will notify owners and provide a corrected label for placement over the inaccurate label, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. SET's number for this recall is SET19A.
Campaign 19V503000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsMar 27, 2019
Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
If the driver cannot read the label, they may unknowingly overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
GST will notify owners, and dealers will provide corrected load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2019. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 19R1.
Campaign 19V244000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
102 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Air bags, Seats, Mar 3, 2025
I have been experiencing water intrusion with my vehicle, I first noticed it by a mildew smell. Acknowledged under Toyota’s Customer Support Program 22TE05. This water leak has led to multiple secondary issues, including: Interior water damage Clogged A/C drainage system Sunroof drainage issues I reported this issue to a Toyota, but they denied repairs under 22TE05, claiming the issue was only due to a sunroof leak and clogged drains. [2/14] – Took my car to AutoNation Toyota due to a persistent water leak. The dealership diagnosed the issue as a clogged sunroof leak and clogged drains but did not provide clear documentation that they properly inspected the roof rail gasket. [2/18] – Dealership denied repair under 22TE05 but then stated they could replace the roof rail gaskets if my insurance paid for it—which contradicts their claim. [2/18] – I escalated my case to Toyota Corporate for review, but I am still waiting for a response. My car was left outside in the rain, potentially worsening the water damage. The dealership never provided me with a written repair estimate. Safety Concerns & Impact on Vehicle Use: I am worried about driving my car due to potential electrical system failure and airbag malfunctions caused by water damage. According to industry knowledge and Toyota customer experiences, a roof rail leak can directly contribute to all of the issues the dealership claims my car has: Clogged A/C Drainage System – Water leaking from the roof rails can enter the A/C system, causing drainage backup, mold, and excessive moisture buildup. Sunroof Leaks & Drainage Problems – If excess water enters through roof rail failure, it can overwhelm the sunroof drainage system, making it appear clogged when the root cause is actually the failing roof seal. Interior Water Damage – If the roof rail clips fail, water leaks into the headliner, side pillars, dashboard, and footwells, leading to electrical issues, carpet damage, and excessive moisture inside
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Feb 9, 2025
On 01/29/2025 at around 5:30pm I was driving home from work when suddenly the car stalled. I was going about 45 mph on a secondary to Lane Highway that was completely black because there are no street lights in that area. There were all kinds of warning lights flashing on the dash. I let my car drift to the shoulder was able to break and put it in park. I tried turning the vehicle back on but it would not start. My cell phone showed no Wi-Fi connection but I know the area very well and I knew I could walk several feet to a connection. Therefore spite concerns for my safety I had to leave my vehicle in order to call for help. I walked about 30 ft in the pitch black on this highway dressed in dark clothing on a shoulder that was very narrow. There was a pickup truck coming my way who flashed his high beams in my face but did not stop to see if he could help. Actually I was grateful for this because it's a pretty secluded area and I was very frightened for my safety. I was able to get a connection about 30 ft away from the vehicle and called my husband who said he would be on his way. I walked back to the vehicle got in and tried to start it. It would not start but all the warning lights were flashing on the dash. I decided I should take pictures of the warning lights in case we needed that for the dealer. After a couple of minutes I decided to try to start the car again and it did start. I was able to drive down the road to a Wi-Fi connection called my husband to let him know I was on my way. Once I got home the car seemed to be in order but there was one warning light telling us to take it to the dealer because there was something wrong with the hybrid system. We made an appointment to go in on January 31st. They inspected the vehicle to the tune of almost $200 and diagnosed the problem as follows: hybrid EV battery voltage system isolation internal internal electronic failure rear motor corrosion on both hybrid harnesses. Cost to repair $5,500.00
Electrical system, Structure, Other or unspecified, Dec 28, 2024, fire
The vehicle suddenly started to smoke and burn by itself when driving on the super crowded highway. I immediately stopped the vehicle and found that the burning site was the bottom of the front-left head of the vehicle (please see the images attached). The mechanician I visited after judged that the fire may due to failed electrical parts or system. He suggested to visit a Toyota dealer for recall. However, the Toyota dealer (Crown Toyota, 1201 Kettering Dr, Ontario, CA91761) declined my request with the reason that my vehicle has passed warranty time. The vehicle was just inspected in the Toyota dealer a few days ago. The dealer's inspection report shows that the vehicle does not have any problems besides suggesting to replace tires and front brakes.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Dec 21, 2024
The Data Communication Module has failed in my vehicle. This causes several major distractions and increases the risk of an accident. The media screen in the center of the dashboard will send an alert message every 15 seconds saying that ‘the connected device is not compatible’. At night, this alert message is especially bright and distracting. The lights on the SOS button are constantly blinking. More significantly, the SOS button does not work anymore. The only known solution to this problem is either to disconnect the DCM, or to pay more than $1300 to replace it.
Electrical system, Air bags, Structure, Dec 7, 2024
I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding a manufacturing defect in my vehicle and the refusal by Toyota to honor its responsibilities for repair despite clear acknowledgment of the issue. In October 2024, I discovered a small water leak from the roof of my vehicle. I attempted to schedule an appointment with the nearest Toyota dealer, but the timing of their available appointments conflicted with my work schedule, and it was not possible for me to get a timely appointment. In an effort to mitigate the leak, I tried to fix it myself until I could get the vehicle to the dealership. Upon visiting the dealership, I was informed that the issue was a manufacturing defect, but they refused to repair my vehicle because I had attempted to fix the issue myself. This worsened the leak, as they did not return my vehicle to its original condition. I was then informed that I would have to bear the full cost of repairs. I had no prior knowledge of any recall associated with my vehicle. After conducting my own research, I discovered that Toyota had acknowledged the manufacturing defect affecting my vehicle model but had not notified me or issued a recall. I reached out to Toyota’s customer service, and they assured me that they would approve the repair through the dealership. However, after approximately a month of waiting, Toyota informed me that they would not cover the costs of the repair, and they declined to take any further responsibility.
Electrical system, Structure, Other or unspecified, Dec 6, 2024
My car frame floods every time it rains. This flooding includes my sunroof drain clogging. As a result of the water retention in my car’s frame, my cars safety system controller units are being corroded and thus I DO NOT have any reliable safety monitoring system. I have looked into this and this a COMMON complaint for Toyota 2019-2021 Rav4 sunroof cars. I have had the sunroof drain cleared multiple times but the issue remains. So far it has impacted my tire pressure safety monitoring systems. This is a MAJOR safety issue as the electrical safety monitoring system controller units are NOT properly functioning as a result of poor water drainage.
Electrical system, Nov 15, 2024
I have been told by the Toyota Arapahoe dealer that the DCM in the car is bad. All the services the DCM supposedly provides have NEVER worked on the car, leading me to believe it has been faulty from day one. These include all safety assistance features.
Electrical system, Structure, Forward collision avoidance, Nov 13, 2024
Initially thought a seal on the windshield was faulty, so contacted the business who replaced the windshield. Business owner came to owner’s house Mon, Nov 4, 2024. He did a thorough inspection of all areas where water was identified by owner (dash, under the dash, on the driver side floor) and confirmed it was not the windshield. He then inspected the roof rack and determined the roof rack was defective and leaking water from the ceiling of the vehicle, down into the dash, and ultimately onto the floor. He recommended contacting Toyota because this was a known issue. By 12pm on Mon, Nov 4, 2024 owner contacted Toyota alerting them to the issue. An appointment was made to bring the vehicle in for inspection on Mon, Nov 11, 2024. Owners do not have a garage or carport, so a canopy was pitched over the car in an effort to prevent any further water damage and moisture absorbing canisters were placed in the car. The vehicle was not driven in the rain during the period after first noticing the leak and bringing it in to the dealership. Evidence of Electrical Damage: On Friday, November 1, 2024 the driver side seat became extremely hot, to the point of needing to pull over and turn the car off. The seat heater was not turned on at any point during this time. On Saturday, Nov 9, 2024 and Nov 11, 2024 while driving on the highway, the car (normally driven in Eco Mode) unexpectedly switched into Mud&Sand mode and all safety features switched off. Owner was unable to manually override this occurrence. The “Normal” button did not work. After a few minutes, the vehicle switched into the default setting and owner was able to put it back into Eco Mode. On Nov 11, 2024 owner brought vehicle into Toyota for diagnostics. Owner requested that the electrical components also be inspected and was told it was not covered under the Customer Support Program.
Electrical system, Oct 19, 2024
A distracting message “a connected device is not supported” flashes on my console screen every 10 seconds. This occurs when there are no device or cable connected. It blocks the clock and driving directions if I am projecting them through CarPlay. The SOS emergency system lights flash back and forth from red to green.
Electrical system, Engine, Sep 7, 2024
Defective coolant bypass valves on my 2019 Toyota RAV 4 have caused coolant to leak out of my vehicle’s closed-loop coolant system, harming its ability to properly regulate engine temperature. Eventually the message “Engine Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer” appeared on my dashboard indicating an issue with the engine. An internet search of this error message on the 2019-2023 Toyota RAV4 and Corolla models shows this is a widespread defect, affecting hundreds of Toyota owners. A class action lawsuit has been filed against Toyota regarding defective coolant bypass valves in the 2019-2023 Toyota RAV4 and Corolla models [XXX] et al. v. Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc) but Toyota has still not addressed this defect with a recall. Attached is a copy of the mechanic invoice I just paid to replace the defective coolant bypass valves on my 2019 RAV4 as the engine was not maintaining temperatures appropriately and in risk of total engine failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Jun 14, 2024
SUV showed on the display that there was a Hybrid System Malfunction. SUV is in a Toyota dealership shop in Aberdeen, WA. I called the shop immediately when the notification came up. Was advised that it was OK to drive until check engine light came on, which it didn't. I only drove to work amd back after the notification and call to shop. The cruise control would turn off and I'd be notified on the screen. Again was told ok to drive until check engine light came on. Approx a week after calling shop, SUV would not start before going to work. Had to be towed to shop. Potential safety issue if this happened while driving on highway or while in a rural/wooded/off main road area with no cell phone service. I was told my the shop that another SUV had recently had the same issue. Shop says that the wiring harness is exposed to the elements as built by Toyota. Has not been inspected by anyone but the Toyota dealership service dept. No warning ahead of time, just a notification while driving that there was a Hybrid System Malfunction amd then a Cruise Control Malfunction.
Electrical system, Jun 12, 2024
My rear backup camera has intermittently worked for almost 2 years now. I was not included in the recall Toyota K05 / NHTSA campaign number 19V576, but I do believe I should be included as the issue describes the issue I have been having. Dealer advised me I need a new camera but the camera works from time to time. The dealer could not replicate my issue in Oct 2023. I’m still having the issue and it has gotten worse.
Electrical system, Engine, May 23, 2024
“Engine maintenance required” maintenance light on dashboard. Very common issue within RAV4s. This message blocks the odometer on the dashboard when visible. It shows warning lights on the display as well. The part that needs replacing is a “coolant bypass valve”. My dealer wanted nearly $1000 to replace this part, and told me this part was on back order nationwide. My car begins to overheat after 1.5 hours of driving. The dealer said to pull over when operating my vehicle and it begins to overheat. This problem is an inconvenience as I commute to work in a busy city. This problem was first presented last week after my scheduled oil change with my local dealer. The next day (5/17/2024) the light came on my dashboard—unable to be removed. I first brought it into the dealer for a diagnostic on 5/20/2024, this is when they diagnosed a coolant bypass valve. I brought it back to the dealer today (5/23/2024) to have the part replaced, and was told it was on back order. I am afraid to operate my vehicle for long periods of time due to this issue. It has become a major inconvenience in my personal life this week, causing me to call out of work twice. This needs to be addressed by Toyota immediately.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 4, 2024
Coolant Bypass Valve leaking onto electrical systems. If not fixed, electrical system will fail. Toyota is aware that it's a common problem.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Dec 13, 2023, crash
The vehicle is a 2019 Hertz rental RAV4 Hertz. On October 12, 2023, when I moved the gearstick to reverse the vehicle accelerated uncontrollable at extremely high speed and crashed into a wall. Braking did not stop the vehicle.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 18, 2023
Car is shaking when turned on. Will stall if car is not shifted to gear sometimes. When AC is on, car will jump rpm. car acceleration is weak and will jump to 5-6k rpm. car also smells burnt sometimes when driving. car also smells like gasoline sometimes. car does not hold proper amount of gasoline.
Electrical system, Nov 17, 2023
My car ran a message of “ Maintenance engine required” and it turns out the COOLANT BYPASS VALVE has gone bad. When turning the AC on the message appears, but went off the message doesn’t appear.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 31, 2023
Hybrid Harness Malfunction. As reported on FaceBook by my wife to [XXX] of LIA Toyota: "Well my husband's RAV 4 wasn't safe and you knew it. And corporate knew it. You are in the business of saving lives by informing your customers when you find a defect in your cars. This faulty harness is dangerous. And the repair is costly and there aren't many of these parts available to make the repair. You put my husband and countless others in danger. Shame on you." Not only has the problem been confirmed: On May 11th, I received a letter from TOYOTA Motor Sales, USA, Inc. entitled, Certain 2019-2022 Model Year Rav4 Hybrid Vehicle (AWD Only) Coverage for High Voltage Floor Under Wire Harness and Rear Traction Motor Cable Corrosion CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM 22TE09 NOTIFICATION... There was a YouTube Video made by [XXX] about this problem A YEAR AGO entitled, "CableGate," AND an article at TorqueNews. (I have links if needed) The vehicle has been inspected and repaired by LIA Toyota in Rockland County. OVER $5,500 that I'm looking to get a FULL refund. LIA gave me back $1,000 for over-charging me. I want the FULL refund from Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. A warning lamp/message appeared on May 6. I have emails, reports to corporate & screenshots of conversations with LIA service...all lasting almost 2 months. Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. and LIA Toyota BOTH new of this problem a year ago BEFORE they sent out the letter. The letter states they would repair it for free if under 100,000 miles. I had 114,000, BUT...if I knew a year ago, I would have brought it in...UNDER the 100,000 miles, and got a FREE repair. Thank you for helping me get a full refund and for helping others with this same problem. USA Toyota owners NEED TO KNOW THIS! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Aug 26, 2023
Engine Maintenance Required light came on. Got it checked out by Toyota Dealer and the coolant bypass valve needs to be replaced. It seems to be a common problem with RAV4s.
Electrical system, Jul 16, 2023
The DATA COMMUNICATION MODULE - the DCM does not work properly. At first the Mic for the phone did not work when using the phone , then my clock and information page on the screen went in and out. I went to a dealership and they charged me $150 for diagnostic and now $1300 to fix. This is a vital piece of equipment for using communication devices hands-free. There is already a campaign to 21-22 RAV 4 models, and I believe this is the same issue only to the 2019 and 2020 also. Here is the link to the campaign. Please help me. https://www.toyoheadquarters.com/threads/2021%E2%80%932022-toyota-vehicles-dcm-data-communication-module-reprogramming-special-service-campaign-ssc-22tc01.2566/
Electrical system, Structure, Other or unspecified, Jun 16, 2023
Vehicle is switching to mud and sand mode on its own, which according to a quick google search is a common electrical problem. Possible cause listed by other drivers is a roof rail leak. Upon inspection I see water stains on the inside of my headliner where the roof rails sit. So confirmed roof rail leak. I have not yet had this looked at to learn the full extent of the damage.
Electrical system, Lane departure, Back over prevention, May 7, 2023
Received multiple malfunction alerts. BSM & RCTW. Other safety features also inop. Dealership told me it was due to non-factory installed Cross Bars, faulty gasket allowed water into vehicle and flowed down onto the Engine Control Module. There was no way the amount of water said to have been in vehicle could have come from that 1 gasket, over 1" above roof. After $825+ and removal of cross bars water still leaking into car. Concerned issue will re-occur making safety features worthless, as well as damage side air-bags. These issues would all need to be corrected via out-of-pocket expense. Believe the issue is design flaw from Toyota.
Electrical system, Air bags, Structure, Apr 7, 2023
Roof rack design and grommet failure allows for water to flow into cabin headliner and down a-pillars and other areas where curtain airbag and other electrical components are housed. This can cause malfunction and/or failure of the vehicles crucial functions at any given moment. A class action lawsuit is filed on this. You need to step in and make it a recall and hold toyota responsible.
Electrical system, Air bags, Structure, Apr 6, 2023
Outside water (rain, carwash, etc) is leaking through the roof into the A-pillar and C-pillar areas and into the interior. Water is likely entering the air bag components in the front A-pillars on both sides, potentially causing a safety issue. Also concerned that water could be entering the electrical components in the dashboard. When researching the issue, found multiple complaints of this issue and also at least one class action lawsuit. Dealer is pushing back on covering this under the "Certified Pre-owned Comprehensive Warranty". https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2023/toyota-rav4-roof-rail-leaks-class-action-lawsuit.shtml https://www.classaction.org/toyota-rav4-leaking-lawsuit https://www.motorbiscuit.com/lawsuit-alert-toyota-rav4-roof-leak-causes-water-damage-electronics-airbags/
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Mar 26, 2023
Driving home from work on 3/25/23 at 9:15 pm my dash lights starting going on and off flicking. “Power steering malfunction. Steering power low visit your dealer” “abs” also multiple dash lights came on at the same time. Brake light steering light. Got home and took video while parked to safely show the issue