The 2009 Toyota RAV4 has 6 recalls, the most serious being fire risks from two separate sources: an aftermarket seat heater that can short circuit and ignite, and a power window switch that can overheat and melt.
On the chassis side, rear suspension tie rods have adjusting lock nuts that may not be properly secured, allowing the tie rod to fail and cause a sudden loss of steering control. The rear outboard seatbelts are also a concern: in a frontal crash, the seat cushion frame can cut through the belt webbing, leaving rear passengers without effective restraint.
Two related issues affect the windshield drainage and wiper system. A deformed water channel beneath the cowl louver at the base of the windshield can block drainage, allowing water to pool and drip onto the wiper linkage joint. Over time, that moisture causes corrosion and wear at the joint where the linkage connects to the wiper motor, and the linkage can eventually separate, leaving the wipers unable to clear the windshield.
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.
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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.
