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: other or unspecified
169 reports, newest first. Show all
Other or unspecified, Jul 28, 2026
While driving down a county road at approx 40mph, the glass of the sunroof of my 2019 RAV4 suddenly cracked, with shards falling down into the vehicle. There was no apparent cause or impact. After moving to a safe location to further inspect, I noticed the following details; - the rectangular glass of the sunroof is cracked through at multiple points along the edges of the pane, and a "web" pattern of partially shattered glass extends across the whole pane. - there is no pattern that I would associate with an impact spot and no evidence of impact from any falling object. At the time, I was driving under open skies in a rural area, not under any trees, overpasses, etc. - the glass appears to be buckled outwards, as though internal cabin pressure was a factor - the car had been parked outside my office all day, the day was overcast with a high in the 80s. There was no rain/hail/etc. Overall, the lack of apparent impact and outward-buckling pattern raise concern for a material or manufacturing defect. While no one was hurt in this incident, a similar failure could have been a significant problem if it occurred on an interstate or other location the operator could not pull over, or during adverse weather. The vehicle is being taken for inspection at Stapp interstate Toyota, Frederick CO on 29 July 2026.
Other or unspecified, Jun 2, 2026
I am having issues with my 2019 RAV 4 rear hatch. The struts/hinges issue is not allowing my rear hatch to open. I feel like one issue caused the other, but warranty will only cover the struts. There is a potential class action lawsuit right now over this issue. Toyota will not do anything about it.
Other or unspecified, May 29, 2026
The infotainment system of my 2019 RAV4 hybrid will randomly turn off while driving. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, May 16, 2026
The 8-speed automatic on my 2019 RAV4 (2.5L 4 Cyl) has been shifting super rough at lower speeds, to the point to where downshifts can send the revs into redline territory, but the car really doesn't move. No warning lights, passed state inspection, recently serviced. purchaced this car in Janurary with 50k miles on it and noticed it within a few weeks of driving. I am now at 57k and the issue is signifigantly worse than it was before. Will be taking it to Toyota soon. The safety issues arise when I do not know how the car is going to accelerate or respond to throttle input in traffic. I don't trust the car to handle any fast throttle input if I need to move out of the way quickly.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 25, 2026
Safety Defect: Data Communication Module (DCM) Failure Affecting Hands-Free Microphone and Safety Connect / SOS Emergency System Vehicle: 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE The DCM (which controls both the CarPlay/Bluetooth hands-free microphone and the Safety Connect SOS emergency button) suddenly failed without any warning or accident. Symptoms: - No one can hear me during CarPlay or Bluetooth calls (microphone inoperative). - Safety Connect / SOS light became intermittent or inoperative (directly impacts emergency calling, crash notification, and roadside assistance). This is a known recurring issue documented in Toyota TSBs T-SB-0112-20 and T-SB-0089-21. Toyota of Hackensack diagnosed it and quoted $1,300 for DCM replacement/update while charging me $200 for diagnosis. They did not disclose during the multipoint inspection that this is a documented safety-related DCM fault. I performed the manufacturer-recommended 12V battery disconnect reset (standard TSB procedure), which fully restored the microphone and returned the SOS light to solid green. However, this is only a temporary fix for a known defect. This failure compromises hands-free calling while driving and the emergency SOS system — both critical safety features. I request NHTSA investigation and urge Toyota to issue a recall or service campaign for all affected 2019–2025 RAV4 Hybrids.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Apr 6, 2026
While driving, the moonroof on my 2019 Toyota RAV4 XLE AWD suddenly exploded with a loud bang and the glass blew outward. There was no impact, debris, or external cause. The sound was similar to a gunshot. The remaining glass appeared to be pushed upward/outward, not inward. This created a safety hazard due to potential driver distraction and risk of injury from falling glass. This appears consistent with other reported incidents involving spontaneous sunroof shattering. No warning light. Moonroof was shut.Sunny day about 40 degrees outside. Traveling at 68 mph. Dog in crate in back
Structure, Seats, Other or unspecified, Mar 15, 2026
A recall was issued for a roof leak defect that allowed water intrusion into my vehicle. The recall repair was performed at Autonation Toyota of Weston dealership, where the roof was replaced due to water staining. However, water intrusion which led to black mold growth into the interior carpeting and floor board remained after the repair. The dealership stated that the remaining water intrusion affecting the carpeting was caused by another source. Documentation showing that the recall repair procedure was completed according to the manufacturer’s requirements was requested but has not been provided. The defect involving water entering the vehicle interior remains unresolved. I was last told by the General Manager that my requests and concerns were forwarded to legal, but I have not heard back from October of 2025.
Other or unspecified, Dec 23, 2025
my 2019 Toyota 8 speed transmission jerking in stop and go traffic
Other or unspecified, Dec 18, 2025
Jerks during acceleration. Lurching sensation when acceleration from a stop or after slowing down for a turn. The engine control module (ECM) not communicating effectively with the transmission, leading to searching for gears, rough shifting and low speed hesitation.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 11, 2025
My 2019 Toyota RAV4 experienced a dangerous electrical and transmission failure that ultimately caused the vehicle to stall while driving and made me lose control. For several weeks before the incident, the vehicle showed subtle hesitation when accelerating but no warning lights. After the car stalled and spun out coming off the Ben Franklin Bridge onto I-76 near downtown Camden, police responded, confirmed the vehicle had unexpectedly shut off, and verified there was no crash damage. I later brought the car to the Toyota dealership, where they discovered corrosion on the battery cable, failed ABS sensors, and a weak battery. I paid $668 for a new battery, new cable, and ABS sensor repairs. At that time, the dealership did not inform me of any transmission issues and released the vehicle back to me. I made it only a short distance up the road before realizing the vehicle could not accelerate past 40 mph and was still malfunctioning, so I immediately returned it. The next day, the dealership initially claimed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle, but after I insisted they re-evaluate the car, they then informed me that the transmission was failing and needed replacement. This sequence of electrical instability, combined with the transmission malfunction, ultimately led to the earlier stall where I lost all power steering and braking assist and spun out into the median. The vehicle, diagnostic records, and replaced components are available for inspection. The sudden loss of power and control created a major safety risk to me and other drivers in a high-traffic area.
Other or unspecified, Nov 26, 2025
The design of some Rav4 grilles (particularly 2019-2024 models) allows rocks and road debris to easily pass through and damage the vulnerable A/C condenser, or radiator behind it, which leads to very expensive repairs. This is what happened to my 2019 Toyota Rav 4. Now I have to pay 1300.00 to get it repaired.
Other or unspecified, Nov 20, 2025
UNKNOWN
Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 22, 2025
Cooling System over Temperature. Message kept displaying and check engine lit up again since the first service was done by Tech at the dealership on July 15, 2025.
Other or unspecified, Sep 6, 2025
26Aug2025 I notified Maplewood Toyota MN I had not been notified of safety recalls when nhtsa site confirmed 7 safety recalls. I had absolutly no response. Now nhtsa site says there are no unrepaired recalls when Toyota of Maplewood has done No repairs.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Aug 8, 2025
I am reaching out regarding a structural issue I’ve experienced with my 2019 Toyota RAV4, specifically with the rear power liftgate. Recently, I noticed that the liftgate hinges are beginning to crack and pull away from the body of the vehicle. The alignment of the trunk has shifted slightly, and there is visible damage around the hinge area. This appears to be worsening over time and is beginning to affect the liftgate’s ability to close properly and securely.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 18, 2025
7/16/2025 Engine Maintenance Required Visit Dealer" message on a 2019 Toyota RAV4 LE came on and will not go off. Upon further research and inspection coolant bypass valve is faulty.
Other or unspecified, Jun 9, 2025
You get a message that said engine maintenance required contact the dealer, when you do the scan it's shows that there is a problem with engine coolant bypass valve. After checking online it was multiple people with the same problem.
Other or unspecified, May 20, 2025
While driving at interstate speed and cruise control set, the cruise control stopped working and Cruise Control Malfunction errors, as well as Hybrid System Malfunction errors appeared. With other cars driving so closely behind me, the quick deceleration caught me off-guard and could have easily been hit from behind. I took the car to Toyota Dealership and appears there's already a known issue for a corroded traction cable and since not under warranty (due to mileage >120,000 miles) will cost $4668 to fix. Why is this not a recall if the problem is known?
Structure, Other or unspecified, May 12, 2025
There is a water accumulation problem in the doors. This could potentially cause some rot from the inside out causing electrical to fail or metal to rust and cause the affected door(s) to not open correctly. No warning lights came on or anything on the dashboard.
Other or unspecified, Apr 26, 2025
Faulty coolant valve and Toyota says that it is not covered/part of a recall. However, many vehicles are experiencing this issue so this seems like a widespread problem that Toyota is not taking responsibility for.
Other or unspecified, Apr 7, 2025
The trunk door has been having major issues, where the hatch hinges and power liftgate strut are not operating correctly. The door is unable to close without manual assistance. Ghettel Toyota of Bradenton's service center has inspected and confirmed the malfunction. There were no warning messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure; it first appeared in December 2024, and this car is a 2019 model with 37,000 miles on it. A second opinion was provided by a local body shop, prompting me to report this issue, as they informed me that this has been happening to multiple RAV4 vehicles.
Other or unspecified, Apr 3, 2025
Engine coolant bypass valve not working vehicle has 53000 miles was charged 783.00 dollars to replace at the dealership I understand there is pending lawsuit against toyota for not doing a recall in regards to this problem with all 2019 to 2023 rav4
Other or unspecified, Mar 19, 2025
Vehicle is displaying Engine Maintenance Required. Dealership stated that it’s a Coolant Bypass Malfunction.
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
Other or unspecified, Jan 26, 2025
A warning message "Engine Maintenance Require Visit Your Dealer" appeared on my vehicle dashboard screen on approximately May 22, 2024. I googled and looked up on Facebook group and many other owners shared their experiences who encountered the exact issue with the Engine coolant bypass valve, and it requires a replacement, or else it could overheat and cause damages to the engine. Those owners who got it replaced and shared it costs about $1,000 or more at the dealership. I went to a local mechanic shop, and they diagnosed the exact issue as expected, and they were able to replace the part at a much lower cost than the dealership.