2022 Toyota RAV4 Owner Complaints

Re: Formal complaint — dealer billed for unperformed work, uncompleted Special Service Campaign 26TC03, $6,000 transmission quote with zero diagnostic codes, lifetime powertrain warranty not honored On RAV4 stalled while I was driving. I brought it to the above dealer. The service advisor told me a sensor was replaced. It was not: the mass air flow sensor in the vehicle is dust-covered with inspection paint marks and is clearly not new (photo attached). Worse, the advisor's own TIS screenshot shows Special Service Campaign 26TC03 — Incorrect Mass Air Flow Sensor Reading — with Completion Status: NOT COMPLETED on my VIN. The campaign was never performed, yet work was represented as done. The dealer is now pushing a $6,000 transmission replacement, which I declined. Their own diagnostic scan shows 0 engine codes and 0 transmission codes — there is no diagnostic basis for this recommendation. The vehicle carries a lifetime powertrain warranty; the dealer has not filed a warranty claim and has provided no written denial citing a specific exclusion. I am requesting that Toyota: 1. Open a case and assign a regional case manager; 2. Investigate this dealer's representation of completed campaign/warranty work versus the TIS record and photographic evidence; 3. Ensure the [XXX] remedy is properly completed on my VIN at no charge; 4. Confirm how the lifetime powertrain warranty claim is being handled. Attachments: repair order / $6,000 estimate, sensor photograph, advisor's TIS screenshot, advisor's scan results, warranty contract. I expect a written [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11774811

Incident

Jul 16, 2026

The high-voltage rear traction motor cable floor wire harness on my 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has experienced severe corrosion, which has severely degraded the high-voltage electrical shielding. This defect has created immediate electromagnetic interference (EMI), causing violent, deafening static noise on the AM radio ONLY when the vehicle is in motion (accelerating/driving). Toyota National Headquarters is well aware of this systemic defect under Customer Support Program (CSP 22TE09) and Limited Service Campaign (25TD01). However, the authorized dealership, Empire Toyota of [XXX], has repeatedly denied warranty coverage using unscientific diagnosis ("FM radio is fine, so the cable is fine") and refused to perform a proper road test or insulation resistance test. Furthermore, Toyota Brand Engagement Center (Corporate Case #XXX) has neglected my safety concerns and failed to enforce corporate policy on the uncooperative dealership INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11770661

Incident

Aug 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that the infotainment system continuously rebooted at startup and while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera image was brief and intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for a diagnostic test; however, the error message "System Access Denied" was retrieved. The dealer determined that the infotainment system needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and confirmed the assessment of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 53,800.

NHTSA ID

11769562

Incident

Sep 28, 2026

Mileage

53,800 mi

Sunroof shattered after a loud bang noise. No vehicles around.

NHTSA ID

11769219

Incident

Oct 6, 2026

The contact’s uncle owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. While the uncle was driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle suddenly stalled. During the failure, the instrument panel remained illuminated, but the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was later towed to the local mechanic who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. While with the local mechanic the vehicle was restarted and operated normally. The vehicle was immediately driven to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The failure mileage was 10,000.

NHTSA ID

11769099

Incident

Oct 2, 2026

Mileage

10,000 mi

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota RAV4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front driver's side door. The contact inspected the vehicle and became aware that there was water in the door panel. In addition, the contact later became aware that there was water inside the passenger's side front door panel. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but it was not inspected. The contact was informed that the failure was not covered under warranty.

NHTSA ID

11766084

Incident

Aug 22, 2026

Idling, received a warning of "engine stopped. steering power low". Trying to restart the car - it would start up then immediately shut down w/ the same error. Letting it sit for 15 minutes allowed it to reset and start again. It was raining at the time, wind shield wipers were on if that matters.

NHTSA ID

11761876

Incident

Sep 3, 2026

While driving at highway speeds, the moonroof suddenly and spontaneously exploded without being struck by any visible road debris or external objects. After safely pulling over and shutting the vehicle off to assess the damage, the car now refuses to start or crank. The electrical system and interior/dashboard lights still power on normally, but the ignition will not engage to drive the vehicle.

NHTSA ID

11761754

Incident

Sep 2, 2026

A whining noise from a 2022 Toyota RAV4 LE transmission during acceleration often points

NHTSA ID

11760812

Incident

May 8, 2026

had parking brake malfunction. The wheels locked up could not move my care either forward or backward this was the second time within 8 month period. the failure was due to the parking break actuator. First time was in January 2026 second time was August 28, 2026 the wheels locked both times and I need to tow the car for service. Each time It cost me arount $1750 to replace the actuator. My concern was that I could not move my car. Found out this is a recurring problem with Toyota. Not only is this a safety problem but an expensive repair. I also found out recently that the car cant be towed unless the rear times are lifted in the air. I am looking for a recall on these system.

NHTSA ID

11760796

Incident

Aug 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power, and the "Low Steering" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The check engine warning light was illuminated, the vehicle shuddered, and then stalled as the contact pulled into a parking lot. The failure had occurred on several different occasions. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to return to normal operation. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed with an inoperable port fuel injector. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to another dealer and was diagnosed with inoperable port fuel injectors. The contact was informed that the port fuel injectors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA ID

11758310

Incident

Jul 25, 2026

Mileage

50,000 mi

The car is Rav4 2022 fuel: gas. Dashboard showing Headlight System malfunction, Pre-Collision System malfunction and RSA System Malfunction. The alarm beep and sign of malfunction keep popping up on dashboard. I took it to Toyota dealership to be inspected and they notified me that "The Front Recognition camera Watchdog/Safety MCU Failure." This front camera is connecting to headlight system, Pre-Collision system and RSA system that causing them to be malfunction while I am driving. With all those system malfunction in the car, I am driving with a huge risk. I am certain that not only I have those problems but some owner of RAV4 2022 or perhaps other year that has the same microcomputer for Front Recognition camera for Safety have the same failure that would trickle down to safety of others on the road. The car is only 4 years old. The Microcomputer in the front camera should have been functioning with no problem, unless the factory didn't calibrate well or install malfunction microcomputer for the car. The dealership estimated the price to change the microcomputer $ 2000 and labor $ 400 something. Toyota should have recall and reimburse this service to customers since these problems are factory problems.

NHTSA ID

11756791

Incident

Aug 5, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor outside the vehicle. The contact inspected the vehicle and became aware that there was smoke coming from the battery, and there was battery fluid leaking from the battery. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with battery failure. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The contact stated that in May 2026, the vehicle was serviced for electrical issues with the Start/Stop feature, parking brake error message, and the AC display unit was replaced. The contact stated that other electrical issues occurred intermittently. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 71,800.

NHTSA ID

11756571

Incident

May 13, 2026

Mileage

71,800 mi

Within the 1st year I purchased it new, I would get a warning that the RSA is malfunctioning. It seems to happen when I park in the sun and the windshield is very hot. The warning in my dash prevents me from seeing my other readings; mph, fuel, and I can't use my other safety features; LDA, PCS or cruise control. I've taken it in but then it does a reset and the technicians say there's nothing wrong. The warnings happen every month, weekly. I just got tired of taking it in to hear they don't see anything wrong!

NHTSA ID

11755543

Incident

Aug 6, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota RAV4. The contact stated that while driving through a trench at 5 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed to avoid scraping the bottom of the vehicle however, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated and failed to stop. Additionally, the steering wheel failed to turn as needed, and the vehicle crashed into a picnic table and ran over the chairs. The vehicle came to a stop after crashing into a rock. The contact stated that the bumper and doors were damaged and had scratches from the crash. There was no injury sustained. A Police report was not filed. The dealer was contacted and performed an investigation and determined that the accelerator pedal was depressed during the crash and the vehicle was driving 25 MPH; however, the contact stated that the brake pedal was depressed during the crash. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

NHTSA ID

11755323

Incident

May 21, 2026

Mileage

62,000 mi

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that the economy feature disengaged while driving. While the lane assist was activated, the vehicle drifted over into another lane. The engine was revving and backfired. The vehicle lost motive power while driving at undisclosed speeds. The driver's side windshield had a glaze or wax on the outside. While idling, the vehicle surged forward. The driver hovered a foot over the brake pedal. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to several dealers, AutoNation Toyota Winter Park Service Center (225 N Semoran Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32792); Claremont Toyota (601 Auto Center Dr, Claremont, CA 91711); and Miracle Toyota (37048 US-27, Haines City, FL 33844); but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

NHTSA ID

11751482

Incident

May 23, 2026

Mileage

52,000 mi

COMPONENT: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM / TELEMATICS (DCM)The vehicle suffers from a documented manufacturing defect involving the Data Communication Module (DCM/Telematics system, Calibration N01D14B4644). The module enters an infinite transmission loop when the vehicle is turned off, causing a severe parasitic battery drain that repeatedly drops the 12V auxiliary battery below operational voltage.This creates a severe safety hazard, causing total electrical failure and leaving the driver unexpectedly stranded without warning, presenting an immediate safety risk in extreme weather or unsafe locations.An official Toyota Techstream diagnostic scan on 07/08/2026 confirmed 7 active DTC faults in the telematics system. Authorized dealerships are refusing to perform the mandatory firmware updates outlined in manufacturer service bulletins (T-SB-0089-21), opting instead to clear error logs temporarily without repairing the underlying defect. The manufacturer has failed to issue a safety recall despite widespread knowledge of this safety defect.

NHTSA ID

11749469

Incident

Jul 8, 2026

My 2022 Toyota RAV4 has experienced failures of the power door lock actuators on both front doors. Neither the driver's side nor the front passenger door consistently locks or unlocks using the key fob, interior power lock switch, or automatic locking system. This creates a significant safety concern because the doors may remain unlocked when the vehicle is parked, creating a security risk, or they may fail to unlock quickly during an emergency. In addition, occupants may believe the doors are secured when they are not. The problem has occurred on both front doors, indicating this is not an isolated component failure. The issue developed under normal use and was not caused by an accident, abuse, or modification to the vehicle. Multiple Toyota owners have reported similar failures involving door lock actuators in the same generation of vehicles, and there is pending litigation alleging Toyota has long been aware of this defect but has not issued a recall. I am submitting this complaint because I believe this defect presents a safety risk and warrants investigation by NHTSA

NHTSA ID

11748820

Incident

May 22, 2024

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota RAV4. The contact stated that the infotainment system was not functioning as designed. The system continued to reboot and flash, the screen went blank, and it failed to stay connected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was concerned about breaking the law by using her phone while driving. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the infotainment system needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired.The vehicle was then taken to another local dealer, Rohrich Toyota Parts & Toyota Service (2020 W Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15226), where the vehicle was test-driven, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the infotainment system was replaced. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.

NHTSA ID

11748707

Incident

Jun 1, 2023

Mileage

36,000 mi

The automatic locking system stopped working for 2 of my doors. Front passenger and back driver sides no longer lock or unlock. This poses a serious risk considering I live near the ghetto and my car has already been broken into.

NHTSA ID

11746924

Incident

Jun 27, 2026

Our 3 yrs old + Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SUV with barely over 30,000 miles on it had 2 safety issues within 2 months of each other! First was the driver's side mirror- it was rattling, feeling like it might fall off! Seems common issue, perhaps due to cheap plastic parts inside. We had it fixed- Toyota Brand Engagement Center gave a 'Goodwill' gesture to cover us replacing it at Dealership, though it should never have happened on such a newer vehicle in the first place! Then not even 2 months later, a Warning flashed- "Pre Collision System Malfunction!" Also "Headlights" with same warning- "SEE DEALER NOW!" Toyota Dealer. They said Forward Recognition Camera had 'INTERNAL MALFUNCTION' and needed to be replaced. It was going to be quite expensive, but the camera part is not even available in foreseeable future as there's back order for hundreds and they're still in production! It seems this too is a common safety problem~ We can't understand why there's not a RECALL on this. Toyota took no responsibility for this issue, which is APPALLING as, like the first 'side driver's side mirror failure' was also a safety issue! The whole reason we bought this vehicle was for its safety features! Without the front facing camera that comes with the car in same compartment as rear view mirror resides, we now have NO Pre-Collision Warnings, NO Headlight safety feature, NO RSA (Road Sign Assist System). It's infuriating that Toyota, who obviously is making inferior safety products, does not offer to help out in any way. We're both [XXX] and entitled to these safety features as we bought the car both new and paid top dollar! Our service advisor at the Toyota Dealership agrees this is 'not normal', the car is too young to have this happen! He will attest to this & we have paperwork. It stated 'No immediate remedy'. (replacement camera not available) I believe this is happening to hundreds of other RAV4 owners. It's outrageous! Please help! These electronics for safety should not fail! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFOR

NHTSA ID

11746585

Incident

May 27, 2026

After driving for approximately 30-minutes in a heavy rain i pulled over and the automatic engine shutoff feature activated while i was waiting to go inside for an appointment. When attempting to restart the car, the engine would start but then shut off showing a "low power steering" warning message on my dash. The problem persisted for approximately 15-20 minutes. Eventually after about 10 attempts to restart the engine, the car started back up and drove fine the rest of the day. I have heard of this happening to many other rav4s on the Autosafety.org website and it causes me concern, especially if this problems causes the car to stall in high speed traffic in the rain. It is my understanding that this maybe a problem with the Mass Airflow Sensor getting wet in heavy rainfall.

NHTSA ID

11746188

Incident

Jun 23, 2026

The panoramic moonroof on my 2022 Toyota RAV4 spontaneously shattered and exploded outward at approximately 2:09 PM on June 21, 2026 while my wife was driving and exiting the freeway. There was a loud bang, followed by glass shards ejecting primarily outward onto the roof with a pattern showing the glass failed/bent from the inside out. The outer glass panel broke into multiple large sections with a clean perimeter failure and no visible external impact point or road debris damage. This created an immediate safety hazard: loud distraction while driving at highway speeds, flying glass, and sudden exposure through the roof opening. No warning lights, messages, noises, or prior symptoms appeared. The moonroof had been used normally with no issues. The component (panoramic moonroof glass assembly) is available for inspection. I have a dealer appointment scheduled for tomorrow, June 22, 2026 at 9:45 AM for inspection. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the dealer, manufacturer, insurance, or police. This matches numerous similar reports of spontaneous panoramic sunroof failures on RAV4 models.

NHTSA ID

11745498

Incident

Jun 21, 2026

TSB T-SB-0010-24 P0303 code 163,000 miles Toyota denied goodwill assistance Cost: $2,549.65 Check engine light came on with vehicle hesitation on acceleration almost caused to stall with reduced power while driving , the dealership diagnosed the issue as TSB T-SB-0010-24 with cylinder #3 misfire requiring exhaust valve lash adjuster to be replaced. Contacted Toyota corporate to request help with goodwill or discount , was denied , was told they couldn't help no reason given .This issue is a well know Toyota RAV4 defect and even though they claim it only happens when is cold this happened to my SUV at 60*F. Please help.

NHTSA ID

11740904

Incident

May 29, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota RAV4. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds during rainy weather conditions, water would leak inside the front driver-side door and puddle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a deteriorated sealant. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds during rainy weather conditions, water would intrude into the rear driver-side door and would accumulate inside. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to costs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

NHTSA ID

11740660

Incident

Feb 15, 2026

Mileage

40,000 mi