2021 Toyota RAV4 recalls and problems

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 has 1 safety recall and 390 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Toyota dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

390

Crashes / fires

47 / 7

Injuries / deaths

49 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2021 Toyota RAV4 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2021 Toyota RAV4 recalls

Recall 23V-865: Air Bags

Reported Dec 20, 2023 · 999,901 vehicles affected · Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Problem: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.

Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.

2021 Toyota RAV4 problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Air Bags	125
Unknown or Other	75
Electrical System	47
Engine	41
Power Train	23
Steering	23
Forward Collision Avoidance	22
Fuel/Propulsion System	21
Structure	21
Service Brakes	21
Visibility/Wiper	19
Seats	18

Most reported parts

Structure › Body — 15
Lane Departure › Assist — 9
Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 9
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 8
Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 5
Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices › Exterior — 5
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 3
Lane Departure › Warning — 3

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 16,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2021 Toyota RAV4 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Steering · reported Nov 9, 2026

While traveling along an interstate highway, at 65 mph, my vehicle began to drift side to side and the overall steering feeling was loose.

Service Brakes · reported Oct 22, 2026

I have had several intermittent occasions over the past 3-4 years where the brakes do not stop the vehicle when depressed. I can feel something through the brakes pedal, but cannot explain what it is. So far, I have been able to avoid any accidents, but the infrequency makes it impossible to determine if it is going to happen.

Power Train · at 89,000 miles · reported Oct 21, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the transmission failed to function properly. The contact stated that there was an abnormal sound coming from the transmission while shifting from fourth to fifth gear. The transmission was whining while accelerating and decelerating. The contact was concerned about metal flakes inside the engine. The contact called a service center to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.

Lane Departure · reported Sep 25, 2026

While changing lanes in my 2021 Toyota RAV4 with my turn signal activated, the Lane Departure Alert / Lane Tracing Assist system applied an unexpected steering input that pulled my vehicle directly into a Jersey barrier, resulting in physical contact with the barrier. I was intentionally and safely moving into the adjacent lane when the system intervened abruptly and steered my vehicle toward the barrier. My speed was approximately 55 - 60 mph. The weather was rainy off and on but not raining at the time. The road surface was damp. The lane markings were clear and no dashboard warnings…

Unknown or Other · reported Sep 23, 2026

Coolant bypass valve but toyota of richardson said the csp does not cover it. My engine maintenance required pop up on my dashboard

Other Toyota RAV4 years

2025 2024 2023 202220212020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

Compare all Toyota RAV4 years · All Toyota models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Toyota RAV4: 23V-865 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2021 Toyota RAV4?

Owners report air bags problems most often (125 reports), followed by unknown or other (75). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 16,000 miles.

Are Toyota recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Toyota dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.