Year by year
| Model year | Recall campaigns | Owner complaints | Most reported component | Best NCAP overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 4 | 305 | Electrical System | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2016 | 3 | 239 | Electrical System | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2017 | 3 | 308 | Electrical System | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2018 | 3 | 333 | Electrical System | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2019 | 7 | 886 | Fuel/Propulsion System | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2020 | 6 | 639 | Engine | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2021 | 1 | 389 | Airbags | 5 of 5 stars |
| 2022 | 1 | 150 | Electrical System | 5 of 5 stars |
What owners report most
Components named most often in owner complaints across all years on this page (3249 complaints in total). One complaint can name more than one component.
Before you buy a used Toyota RAV4 in Texas
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask the seller for proof that open recalls were repaired. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
- Check the title for salvage, rebuilt or flood brands. See how to check a Texas title.
- Get an independent pre-purchase inspection, focused on the components owners report most (above).
- If you live in an emissions county (Travis, Williamson, or Bexar since November 1, 2026), plan for the emissions test before registration renewal. See Texas inspection and emissions rules.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a used Toyota RAV4 has open recalls?
Enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. It shows recalls that have not been repaired on that exact vehicle. A recall listed on this page may already be fixed on the car you are looking at.
Are NHTSA complaints about the Toyota RAV4 verified?
No. Complaints are reports filed by owners and NHTSA does not confirm each one. They are useful to see which parts owners report most, not as proof of a defect.
Which Toyota RAV4 years are on this page?
Model years 2015 to 2022, the range most shoppers in the Austin and San Antonio used market look at. Data was pulled from the NHTSA API on 2026-11-05.
Sources
Educational content. Anthony does not sell, broker or arrange vehicle sales in Texas. Confirm fees and rules with the office named in each source before you pay anything.
