MODEL
Toyota RAV4 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Toyota RAV4 model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Toyota RAV4 we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 84 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 78. 24 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV and one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States, aimed squarely at families and commuters who want versatility without stepping into a full-size hauler. Spanning model years 2019 through 2025, it competes at the heart of a fiercely contested segment and carries a reputation for practicality and broad appeal across a wide range of buyers.
The 2021 RAV4 achieved the highest Safety Index in its generation, scoring 84 out of 100. This places its overall safety performance in the Strong band, though other model years range down to Average. While the RAV4 earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in side-impact crash testing, its frontal and rollover results were 4 out of 5, preventing a clean sweep in the crash-test ratings. The recall record for this generation is substantial, with 24 recalls issued across the 2019-2025 model years. This volume necessitates careful review of the NHTSA recall database for any specific vehicle. Owner complaints total 2,358 across these model years, including 150 alleged crashes, 15 fire-related reports, 131 reported injuries, and 2 reported deaths. The fire-related complaints, in particular, warrant scrutiny. While these are unverified allegations, their sheer number indicates a need for prospective buyers to confirm all open recalls have been addressed. The RAV4's safety performance is not poor, yet its recall frequency and complaint volume demand thorough investigation from buyers.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the RAV4 as a well-rounded compact SUV that delivers a comfortable, composed ride and a practical, spacious cabin. Most find the interior materials acceptable for the segment without calling them exceptional. Driving dynamics are described as smooth and confidence-inspiring rather than sporty. The RAV4 is broadly seen as a strong value proposition within its class.
- The RAV4 logged 24 recalls across the 2019-2025 model years. Before buying any used example, run the VIN through the NHTSA recall database to confirm all open recalls have been properly remediated.
- Side-impact crash protection is the RAV4's strongest result, earning 5 out of 5 stars, but frontal and rollover scores of 4 out of 5 mean it does not achieve a perfect federal safety sweep in its best tested years.
- Owner-reported complaints include 15 fire-related allegations across the covered model years. While these are unverified, shoppers should be aware of this cluster and check whether any relevant recall or technical service bulletin applies to a specific vehicle.
- The 2021 model year produced the highest NHTSA Safety Index in our covered range at 84 out of 100, rated Strong. Buyers who prioritize peak federal safety scoring may want to focus their search on that model year or verify the index for each specific year they are considering.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Toyota RAV4 with 7 recalls.