Recalls · problems · safety

2016 Toyota RAV4: recalls and problems

3 recalls and 256 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is electrical system.

3recalls
256complaints
37crashes reported
12fires reported
27injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Electrical System59 · 23%
  • Service Brakes48 · 19%
  • Unknown Or Other38 · 15%
  • Exterior Lighting28 · 11%
  • Engine26 · 10%
  • Structure19 · 7%
  • Air Bags19 · 7%
  • Visibility/Wiper15 · 6%
  • Vehicle Speed Control13 · 5%
  • Steering11 · 4%

What owners report

Suspension

Mechanic said he thought rear lower rearward; non-adjustable control arms, lateral arms were a recall. they were falling apart. i've been complaining about a clunky noise for a year or so. thank you for your help [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6)

Electrical System,Structure,Lane Departure Fire

I was driving 9/3 and my left blinker light came on solid. i was not using my blinker. within a few seconds my check engine light came on and another light. then within 2 minutes the front left engine/tire caught fire.

Air Bags

​"the red master warning triangle and an 'srs airbag system malfunction' message illuminated unexpectedly on the dashboard of my 2016 toyota rav4 xle under normal driving conditions. i contacted a certified toyota dealership, and they confirmed that this dashboard warning indicates the vehicle's airbag system is completely disabled, leaving the occupants without airbag protection in the event of a collision. however,

Electrical System

The repair shop i was able to pull into as i was experiencing the issue with my vehicle reported: "battery is unstable and is arcing off of the positive terminal. battery tray, battery hold down tie, and battery j hook hold down were missing upon arrival." the issue was fixed by a brakes plus location, given i was able to pull in there - it was around the corner from where i was driving. the issue has been fixed, and

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2016 Toyota Rav4 SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2016 Toyota Rav4 SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering RAV4 HYBRID, RAV4. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.