MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // SAFETY RECORD

2021 Toyota Rav4 Prime

Recall and complaint safety record from NHTSA. This configuration has not been crash-tested.

4Recalls
98Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE TOYOTA RAV4 PRIME

The Toyota RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid SUV occupying one of the most competitive segments in the American market. It targets practical-minded buyers who want the everyday utility of a midsize crossover combined with an electrified powertrain. With seating for five and all-wheel drive standard, it appeals to families and commuters who want to cut fuel costs without giving up cargo space or all-weather capability.

VERDICT

The 2021 Toyota Rav4 Prime has not been crash-tested by NHTSA, so it carries no Safety Index. Its safety record here is built from 4 recalls and 98 owner complaints on file, giving it a moderate recall and complaint burden.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • shoppers who want the full federal safety picture in one place
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally praise the RAV4 Prime for its strong real-world electric range, brisk acceleration relative to its class, and the practical versatility that has made the RAV4 nameplate a consistent bestseller. Most consider it one of the more compelling plug-in hybrid crossovers available, though some note that interior refinement and ride quality fall short of premium-segment rivals.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:DC/DC CONVERTER23V478000

Risk: A short circuit can cause the DC-DC converter to overheat, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles when the ambient air temperature is below or expected to drop below 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius). Dealers will replace the DC-DC converter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB07/23LB01.

Reported 2023-07-12

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:HYBRID MANAGEMENT:POWER CONTROL UNIT/MODULE (HPCU)23V041000

Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the HEV ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 27, 2023. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TA01.

Reported 2023-02-02

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE22V239000

Risk: Driving with a deactivated stability control system increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the Skid Control ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TA03. Lexus' number for this recall is 22LA01.

Reported 2022-04-13

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS20V698000

Risk: Adjusting the horizontal headlight beam can increase glare, reducing the visibility of an oncoming driver or the vehicle operator, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will close the aiming caps on the headlights, free of charge. The recall began January 6, 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA15.

Reported 2020-11-12

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

98 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

12reported crash
1reported fire
5reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsElectrical System 37Unknown Or Other 23Fuel/Propulsion System 18Service Brakes 16Forward Collision Avoidance 10Power Train 5

Other Rav4 Prime years

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings, recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Toyota Rav4 Prime 2021. Methodology · Disclosure