2022 Toyota RAV4 Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2022 Toyota RAV4, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical3921.5%
- Engine2714.9%
- Steering2011.0%
- Driver assistance1910.5%
- Body & structure189.9%
- Powertrain (other)116.1%
- Airbags105.5%
- Fuel system95.0%
- Brakes84.4%
- Visibility63.3%
- Seat belts52.8%
- Interior & seats31.7%
- Other / unspecified21.1%
- Suspension21.1%
- Tires & wheels21.1%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
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!
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.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
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
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.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
A whining noise from a 2022 Toyota RAV4 LE transmission during acceleration often points
Driving up a slope of about 20-30 degrees gradient of a straight lane going into a private parking lot. Braked and decided to make a 3-point turn to get back out. There was no traffic in the lane. Put gear on reverse while on the slope with the vehicle pointing in the up direction of the slope. Vehicle suddenly surge backwards, accelerating. Vehicle sped down the slope and crossed a street. Could not stop. Vehicle was stopped only after placing gear into park from reverse, and after jumping curb across the street. Fortunately, there were no cross traffic in either direction on the street, otherwise vehicle could have been T-boned. Tire wall on the rear passenger side busted. AAA was called to replace tire with spare. There were no warnings on the dashboard or any symptoms anywhere else, although the vehicle had all the safety features.. The next morning, vehicle was taken to Toyota of Carlsbad. Left there for diagnosis and tires change. Vehicle is left with Toyota of Carlsbad until this issue is answered/solved. Told by service manager of Toyota of Carlsbad to call Toyota USA at [XXX] to report incident by customer, and request Toyota USA to send expert from Toyota to diagnose issue. Called the [XXX] , and given a Report Ref #XXX for further action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
We were traveling across country from Michigan to Arizona. We were 50 miles outside Tucson, AZ on [XXX]. Traveling 80 mph in a 75 mph zone, in passing lane and felt like car exploded and all airbags deployed and we came to a quick stop. No major injuries to either of us. One vehicle incident, did not collide with anything or hit any debris. It was a clear day, road conditions good, no noises, lights etc. My husband was able to keep from rolling and we came to a stop with many semi's etc flying by, very scary. When we were able to safely get out and call 911, there was significant drivers side front end damage around tire area and inside near axle. Looked like something broke inside car, sheered off bottom of tire. Police arrived and had to push vehicle on to shoulder of road. He assessed scene and thought it had to be a mechanicla failure as there was no other vehicle or debris on site. We did contact our insurance company and subsequently it was totaled. We also have Toyota investigating what the cause was if it was a faulty part or mechanical failure. We have not heard back but did receive the "recording of time of crash". I have a short video of damage but I'm unable to attach it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Truck hits a car that car lose control and drive in front of my wife wile driving she crash and the only messege apear on dash panel was air bag system malfunction my car is a Rav4 2022, before the crash lights like tps control come on and off
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was driving home in the rain for about 75 minutes and when I arrived in my driveway I saw steam coming from the front grille area. It wasn't due to a high engine coolant temperature so I decided to carefully open the hood and check for the source. I saw water inside the bottom of the engine bay behind the radiator steaming from the heat of the engine. A few seconds later, the engine stalled and the following message appeared: "Engine Stopped, Steering Power Low" which came on with a check engine light, red battery light, and steering light. I used my scan tool and obtained the code: P0171, System Too Lean. After doing research, I've come up with a conclusion to the potential cause. Starting with the 2022 model year RAV4 non-hybrid (and onwards to the 2025 model year RAV4), the air intake inlet was redesigned from the prior one in the 2019-2021 RAV4 non-hybrid models, as seen in numerous comparison images online. This new design presents a dangerous fault. When driving in rainy conditions, especially at higher speeds with mist kicked up from cars in front, the air intake will take in water. The water will flow to the air filter and then reach the Mass Air Flow sensor (MAF). The MAF sensor monitors the amount of air entering the engine and sends signals to the car's computer to help determine how much fuel to send to the engine to maintain an ideal ratio for optimal efficiency. Considering that water is getting to the MAF sensor, it thinks that the water is excess air, so less fuel is sent to the engine as a result. Since I came to a stop in my driveway, the engine is now at its idle speed and only commands a small amount of fuel to remain running. Now, when combined with the water, that lower fuel flow is practically cut off, leading to the stall. This happened to me before when driving in the rain, but in more dangerous conditions in stop-and-go traffic. Toyota must follow up on T-TT-0763-24 because it has been well over a year since their initial investigation.
Fuel Injector failed, causing the engine to run extremely rich, misfire, and cause severe drivability issues. Issue occurred just outside vehicle base warranty. Problem was verified and confirmed by vehicle dealership. MIL was illuminated when drivability issue and malfunction started.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
I have taken vehicle to Toyota service center numerous times and showed them what the vehicle is doing and they are telling me it’s normal. Its not normal when every bump, manhole, railroad tracks you hit in the road with your foot on the brake when your trying to slow down when the abs or traction control is activated and the car skids forward and comes close to causing a crash. When that is activated sounds like a electric grinding noise is activated. I only have videos no pictures
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
APPEARS TO BE A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. SIDE DOORS BACK AND FRONT FILL WITH WATER. WINDOWS ROLLED UP AND DOWN HAVE STREAKS OF WATER(WET ALL THE TIME). WATER POURS OUT OF DOOR FRAMES. SLOSHING OF WATER IN DOORS. CAR HAS NO MORE THAN 15,000 MILES ON IT. ALWAYS KEEP COVERED IN GARAGE. CAR DOES NOT ACCUMULATE DEBRIS OR LEAVES. HAVE TAKEN INTO TOYOTA PALO ALTO TWICE NOW. NO REAL HELP. CANNOT SEE WELL FROM WINDOWS - SAFETY ISSUE AS SIDE WINDOWS STAY STREAKED OBSCURING VIEW AND MOLD CONCERNS WITH WET INTERIOR DOORS.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
The drivers side front seat belt buckle will not latch. There is no dirt or other debris in the latch to stop it from functioning.
The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, and the front driver's and rear passenger's seat belt buckles and the other rear seat belt buckle, where a child was seated, failed to latch securely, causing his grandchild's rear passenger's side car seat to become loose. No warning light was illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that a diagnostic test was needed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
We were traveling across country from Michigan to Arizona. We were 50 miles outside Tucson, AZ on [XXX]. Traveling 80 mph in a 75 mph zone, in passing lane and felt like car exploded and all airbags deployed and we came to a quick stop. No major injuries to either of us. One vehicle incident, did not collide with anything or hit any debris. It was a clear day, road conditions good, no noises, lights etc. My husband was able to keep from rolling and we came to a stop with many semi's etc flying by, very scary. When we were able to safely get out and call 911, there was significant drivers side front end damage around tire area and inside near axle. Looked like something broke inside car, sheered off bottom of tire. Police arrived and had to push vehicle on to shoulder of road. He assessed scene and thought it had to be a mechanicla failure as there was no other vehicle or debris on site. We did contact our insurance company and subsequently it was totaled. We also have Toyota investigating what the cause was if it was a faulty part or mechanical failure. We have not heard back but did receive the "recording of time of crash". I have a short video of damage but I'm unable to attach it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
My steering wheel has been peeling/flaking off and it’s only 3 years old and my USB plug in inconsistent and turns off or doesn’t work will cords.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Loud clunk over bumps, suspension sounds loose and dangerous. Vehicle was purchased new and has 24,443 miles, this sound is NOT normal for a new vehicle.
6/15/23 @ 18,357 miles the car was given a four wheel alignment at the owners request. Due to loud tire noise and visible cupping on the right rear inside edge, it was clear the car's wheel alignment was wrong. The dealer's before and after alignment is attached. When presented the before and after, I noted RR Camber was.-2.3 vs. a range of -1.8 to -0.3 degrees. The reading was unchanged from initial. They advised me the camber cannot be adjusted and is "fixed" from the Factory. The form also read "One of more value are not within specification. Tire wear, handling and safety problems may result". But they had no remedy. I escalated at Dealer. Dealer opened a ticket with Toyota to look at my car. Of note, my Sister in Law's RAV4car has the same issue. I felt I had made my concerns clear and Toyota Corp would address. 2/1/24 At 30,345 the problem is still unresolved and dealer gave me Toyota Corp number and I opened case 240201000061. 4 calls later I am told to bring my car to dealer 2/20/24. Research shows TSB 0042-14 for earlier RAV4. My safety problem is not new to Toyota, it is just a later model. When I told Toyota Corp their response from 6/15/23 to 2/1/24 is unacceptable, they took no ownership. When I asked if I should drive an unsafe car they said it is my choice. When I advised them of the language from the dealer said the tires were unsafe, they said the Dealer is independent from Toyota. In short, the dealer is "Independent". Toyota has a problem with their design using a static camber strut which causes premature wear which can lead to a blow out as shown by forums. Toyota is only interested in getting the car to 36,000 miles and little focus on safe design. I was surprised not to see this already listed. Perhaps it exists under another year? A company Hard Race has made adjustable rear Toe Arms for the RAV4. The dealer confirmed same.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Tire split on the inside of the tire wall about 1 inch up. Less than 20,000 miles on them. I do not believe this is normal. 225/60 R18. Car was serviced by Toyota on March 21st.
Tire size:225 65/17 While driving the side of a brand new tire blew out. We had three passengers in the vehicle that could have been in danger if we were going at a greater speed. We took the new tire in and was told by the auto shop that it could not be repaired. We had to purchase a new one and I have the invoice. I try to resolve this with Firestone but according to them, the tire was not under warranty. The new tire only had 5000 miles and it is a tread of at least 60,000 miles.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .