2020 Toyota RAV4
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 635 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 4th highest complaint count among 26 RAV4 model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 17 involved a crash and 5 involved a fire. 14 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Air bags, sensor, occupant classificationDec 20, 2023
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
Campaign 23V865000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontalNov 25, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
Campaign 20V734000 on NHTSA.gov
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
Representative owner complaints: engine
193 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Sep 5, 2024
The engine coolant bypass valve requires replacement. This could result in engine failure.
Engine, Sep 5, 2024
The failed item was the coolant bypass valve, message came on of " engine service required" It has been replaced by the dealer Mileage at failure 40643
Engine, Sep 4, 2024
2020 RAV 4 little under 34,000 miles. Coolant bypass valve needs to be replaced. “Engine maintenance required visit your dealer” takes place on dash and cannot be cleared.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 3, 2024
Air coolant bypass valve malfunction. Engine maintenance error message pops up, does not cool properly. Leaking ac fluid. Confirmed by dealership. Costs around 800 to 900 dollars to repair. Parts must be ordered ahead of time. No warning, just message showed up and will not go away. Doesn't let me see the speed I am going on the display since error message keeps popping up every minute.
Engine, Aug 12, 2024
The problem starts with a service notice for the engine. when they check it at the dealer they say it is the coolant bypass valve and they charge 1000 dollars to fix the problem. a new car is not supposed to have these types of problems. they are making a lot of money by changing this part because there are many cars of the same year and with few miles that come to the Toyota dealer for the same problem.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 12, 2024
I have had a Service Engine message on my dash that would return within seconds of my hitting the button to signal I received the message. When I took the vehicle to the dealership I was told it was a leaking coolant bypass valve and would need to be replaced. I was told the cost would be $215 plus three hours of labor. The final cost was $240 for the parts and $709 for the labor. The vehicle only has 31,209 miles on it. As I have researched the part, I have found numerous people have had the same issue within a similar range of mileage.
Engine, Aug 8, 2024
Engine Coolant Bypass Valve Failed expecting close to $1000 for repair. This is not a normal failing part. 2019-2023 rav4 and corollas have this faulty valve that fails prematurely. It is well documented throughout the internet and forums of people having the same issue. 3 dealerships I have spoken with list this as a well known issue that is common with the car. It throws engine maintenance required sign non stop.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 31, 2024
I bought the 2020 Rav4 XLE back in 2019 and had driven for four and half years now. I went to the dealership to get my routine oil change just this Monday July 29th 2024. As usual, the dealership did multi-inspection on my Rav4 and didn't find any problem that requires immediate attention. Two days later, a warning message popped up on the MID screen right after I started the car and read "Engine Maintenance Required". After searching online, calling both local mechanic and Toyota dealership, it happens to be a well-known issue for many 2019-2023 Toyota models including Rav4, Camry, Corolla that the faulty coolant bypass valve has to be replaced. I'm not a car person and I don't know much about cars but I have had the radiator broken while I was driving on my old car due to coolant related issue and almost got me into an accident so I know I shouldn't overlook any issues related to coolant. That being said, Toyota dealership knew about the issue, my local mechanic heard about the issue, an overwhelming number of users had reported the issue on online forums, and with no surprise, a class action lawsuit was filed regarding this issue on June 2024. For a solid car brand that advertises reliability and accountability for its vehicles, not informing or recalling for affected customers is extremely disappointing and unacceptable. After all, I had to pay $785 out of pocket for a repair that should never be done in less 5 years/45000 miles.
Engine, Jul 29, 2024
A code for the coolant bypass valve appeared through an independent service center. Warning message shows "Engine Maintenance Required", when air conditioning is turned on and does not go away. Warning message does not show when air conditioning is turned off. I had a independent service center check any damages to the coolant bypass valve, show that the part was faulty. Through various testimonials Toyota Rav4 owners, they also had the same issue. Warning message started at approximately 55,000 miles and has not gone away even after service. Quote for repair goes above $700, although part has been claimed to be faulty and not disclosed.
Electrical system, Engine, Jul 29, 2024
52,000 miles, and was just informed the coolant bypass valve has failed. This is apparently an issue with ALL 2019~2022 Toyota Rav4 vehicles. It was a known issue to Toyota, using substandard parts. It results in an error message that cant be turned off, masking all other messages, and can only be fixed by a dealer for over $1,000 in costs.
Air bags, Engine, Jul 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the message "Engine Maintenance Required - See Dealer" was display on the instrument panel. No warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. In addition, the contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 25, 2024
My engine maintenance screen kept coming up. Bought it to the dealership & was told that my coolant bypass value needed to be replaced. Not covered by warranty & $700 to replace. This is a known issue with Toyota rav4.
Engine, Jul 24, 2024
A warning message saying "Warning Notification A warning light was turned on. Would you like to call an operator?". Diagnostic performed by Yark Toyota confirmed coolant bypass valve malfunction which can cause overheating. Warning comes on when I turn on the A/C. I now have no air conditioning in the hottest summer I can remember. Repair costs just under $1,000 total.
Engine, Jul 23, 2024
Recurring engine maintenance required alert due to a Heater coolant bypass valve fail issue at 58,100.
Engine, Jul 22, 2024
Engine coolant valve Malfunction
Engine, Jul 22, 2024
I got a message popup saying "Engine Maintenance Required" which is different from the oil change reminder. I cleared it thinking it was about an oil change (that isn't due yet), and it came right back. I took it to a mechanic who ran diagnostics and wasn't able to find the issue. After a few internet searches, I found that the coolant bypass valve is a known issue on certain years of this vehicle. I followed the suggested steps for resetting it (to turn on the vehicle with the heater on, then lower the AC temp without hitting the lowest temperature setting). It's currently working as a fix, but I'm concerned about any long-term situations that could arise.
Engine, Jul 18, 2024
Premature Coolant bypass hose failure at 120k Very common according to online forums $1000 cost of repair
Engine, Jul 17, 2024
Coolant bypass value failure. 2020 with 32751 miles. There are many of this failures reported on-line. Example: [XXX] At the dealer, the service manager relayed that a mechanic stated they've replaced several of these and it should be a recall. Cost was $520 and not covered by warranty. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 16, 2024
We replaced the original battery on May 27, 2024. A few weeks later, on June 15, 2024, an "Engine Maintenance Required" message appeared on the display screen. A local mechanic diagnosed the code and stated that the oil level was low so we added one quarter of motor oil. We also called the dealership, which stated that this code generally indicates a coolant bypass valve malfunction. We topped off the coolant fluid but the "Engine Maintenance Required" message still appeared (we were not able to clear it). A few days later, we took the vehicle to another mechanic, who informed us that the coolant bypass valve was broken and needed to be replaced. Given the 95-degree temperatures, we felt that we had no choice but to replace the broken valve because we did not want the engine to overheat. So we paid $570.28 for the mechanic to replace the coolant bypass hose and valve. The mechanic stated that this issue should not occur in any vehicle with only 38,000 miles, which means the valve was likely defective to begin with. It is suspicious that this issue occurred about two weeks after we replaced the battery and about 2,000 miles after we surpassed the factory warranty. Please investigate!
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 13, 2024
Bypass coolant valve needed to be replaced after engine maintenance required warning came on
Electrical system, Engine, Jul 11, 2024
Coolant bypass valve needs to be replaced. Car under 60k miles and should be covered on the powertrain warranty but is being required to be repaired out of pocket otherwise will ruin engine
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jul 9, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the "Engine Maintenance Required" message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the coolant bypass control value needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.
Electrical system, Engine, Jul 8, 2024
I currently own a 2020 Toyota Rav 4. About two weeks ago I got a notification on my car saying "Engine Maintenance Required" i had taken my car to Toyota wondering what the problem was. They informed me it it the coolant bypass valve without hesitation. This is going to cost me more money than I want to spend. To make the situation better the parts needed are on back order for almost two weeks. The fact this is a common problem right now and there is no Recall is unacceptable. You are causing thousands of customers to spend an unnecessary amount of money and wait weeks just to get the correct parts to fix the situation. There is currently a lawsuit against Toyota because of this issue. There needs to be a recall immediately.
Engine, Jun 25, 2024
Engine Maintenance Required indicator turned on at around 42K miles. My oil change was not due until 45K miles. I had my oil changed at around 43K miles and the indicator still remained on. Issue was the coolant bypass valve need to be replaced. Many other Rav4 owners have had the same issue. The faulty coolant bypass valve if failed while driving could of caused my car to overheat and possibly catch on fire depending on how sever the overheating is while I'm driving.
Engine, Jun 24, 2024
Engine maintenance required warning on dash that prevents me from seeing any dashboard information. It is not possible to turn off the warning. Dealership say it is due to faulty coolant bypass valve. There is a class action lawsuit regarding this part failing.