While automakers strive to produce safe, reliable vehicles that owners can rely on, there can still be issues. In most situations, problems that arise are not identified until the vehicles have been on the road for some time. In this case, a recall is issued, where the manufacturer sends out a notice to all owners of affected models.
How many recalls have been issued for the 2018 RAV4?
The good news is that there have only been two, and they are regarding the same issue, incorrect data on a load-carrying capacity label. The more recent one simply expands the model years for the original recall.
The good news is that this article will tell you all you need to know about these recalls. You can then follow the proper steps to have the problem corrected.
Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Label
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V503000
Toyota recalled some 2017–2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles that may be equipped with incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels. This could lead to owners inadvertently overloading the RAV4 with too much cargo, which can overload it and create a safety risk.
The maximum load capacity of the 2018 RAV4 is, reportedly, 1,070 lbs.
Also, the incorrect label means these RAV4s no longer comply with the requirements set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) regarding number 110, “Tire Selection and Rims.”
This recall was issued on January 23, 2018. Toyota has notified owners and provided them with the easy fix — corrected labels at no cost. Owners are instructed to put the correct labels over the top of the incorrect ones.
Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Label – Expanded Model Years
NHTSA Recall ID: 17V831000
Toyota more recently issued a recall expansion impacting certain 2017–19 Toyota RAV4 vehicles equipped with factory-installed floor mats.
Again, the concern is that an incorrect label could lead to unintentional overloading of the vehicle, which has the potential to increase the risk of a crash. It also means these vehicles no longer comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, “Tire Selection and Rims.”
How Should You Handle an Open Recall on a 2018 Toyota RAV4?
Not sure if your Toyota RAV4 has an open recall? Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) site to find out. Once there, enter the VIN or the year, make and model into the form and hit “Submit.” If your vehicle has an open recall that has not yet been serviced, the system will alert you.
If a recall does pop up, take note of whether it is pending and contact the Toyota customer service line at 1-888-270-9371. They will let you know what you need to do and where you need to go for recall service.