The 2009 Toyota RAV4 has 6 recalls, the most serious involving rear suspension tie rods with lock nuts that can loosen and cause a sudden loss of steering control, raising the risk of a crash.
There are two potential fire risks: a power window switch that can overheat and melt if moisture and debris enter and cause a short circuit, and aftermarket seat heaters on equipped vehicles where a damaged heating element can short and start a fire. On the occupant safety side, the rear outboard seat belts can be cut by the seat cushion frame in a frontal collision, leaving rear passengers without effective restraint. Two related structural issues involve water drainage under the cowl at the base of the windshield: a deformed water channel can block proper drainage, and water that reaches the wiper linkage joint can corrode and wear it to the point where the linkage separates from the wiper motor, causing wiper failure.
At a glance
What can fail
Rear suspension arms have lock nuts that may be loose after service. This can damage threads, cause rust, and lead to arm failure, making the vehicle's alignment suddenly change.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace both rear suspension arms and seal the lock nuts at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
At a glance
What can fail
The electrical wiring in aftermarket seat heaters with copper strand heating elements can be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed, potentially causing electrical issues.
What the fix does
Dealers will disconnect the seat heaters at no charge and refund the purchase price of the accessory.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
In a frontal collision, the rear outboard seat belts may be cut by the seat cushion frame.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a protector over both rear seat cushion frames at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The power window master switch may have inconsistent grease lubrication on its sliding electrical contacts, potentially causing the switch to malfunction.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the switch and apply lubricant if needed, or replace the circuit board if abnormalities are found.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Water can drip onto the connection between the wiper linkage and wiper motor, potentially causing the wiper system to malfunction.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the water diverter channel and install a new wiper linkage with motor crank arm, protective cover, and retainer ring.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The water channel under the windshield may deform during manufacturing, blocking drainage. Water collects and drips onto the wiper motor joint, causing corrosion and wear that can separate the wiper link from the motor arm, making wipers stop working.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the water channel, wiper link, and wiper motor crank arm with improved parts.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
