Plano, TX – November 27, 2023 – Toyota (NYSE:TM) is recalling 1.85 million 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 SUVs over the risk of an electrical short which may lead to a fire.
The recall comes on the heels of an ongoing U.S. government investigation and multiple fires.
Recall summary
The affected vehicles received aftermarket batteries with incorrect dimensions. This may allow them to move and contact the bracket they are in, causing an electrical short.
Recall risks
An electrical short may generate excessive heat, which may cause the components around the battery – and the car – to catch fire.
Investigation
The recall comes on the back of an investigation launched in February 2021 by the U.S. government auto safety regulator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The investigation was launched after the agency received almost a dozen complaints about fires and smoke. At least four of the fires occurred when the ignition was off.
Other Toyota recalls
The risk of a vehicle fire was also the cause of a Toyota recall from August 2023, which affected RAV4 and Lexus SUV Hybrids.
Earlier this month, the manufacturer recalled approximately 250,000 Highlander SUVs because their front bumper could detach.
The repair
Dealers will replace the battery tray and the retaining bracket with upgraded versions free of charge.
Owners should receive letters with more information between December 17, 2023 and December 31, 2023.
Is your vehicle a part of this recall?
This Toyota battery fire recall affects almost 2 million SUVs. To do a Toyota recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
