MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2023 Toyota RAV4

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

3Recalls
135Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE TOYOTA RAV4

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.

VERDICT

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 82 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers 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.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 15.5%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18599

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record11/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION25V744000

Risk: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.

Reported 2025-10-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL25V595000

Risk: An instrument panel display that does not show critical information can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument panel software over-the-air (OTA) for non-PHEV vehicles, free of charge. For PHEV vehicles, dealers will inspect the instrument panel assembly, and either replace it, or update the software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 5, 2025. Additional letters will be sent, anticipated in May 2026. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Toyota's cus

Reported 2025-09-11

TIRES:VALVE23V485000

Risk: A damaged or improperly installed valve stem may allow air to leak and/or the tires to be underinflated, increasing the risk of tire failure and a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the wheel valve stems and replace the load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 18, 2023. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 23R1.

Reported 2023-07-11

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

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

18reported crash
1reported fire
13reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsUnknown Or Other 39Electrical System 35Steering 25Engine 22Service Brakes 15Forward Collision Avoidance 12

Other RAV4 years

Rivals in SUV (2023)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 18599), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Toyota Rav4 2023. Class rank 99 of 139 in SUV 2023. Methodology · Disclosure