2021 Toyota RAV4 recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 and 387 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are air bags (125), unknown or other (75), electrical system (47). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 28–30 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2021 ranks #12 of 14 RAV4 model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (313). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.4 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Toyota RAV4. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Air bags · sensor · occupant classification
Problem: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
While changing lanes in my 2021 Toyota RAV4 with my turn signal activated, the Lane Departure Alert / Lane Tracing Assist system applied an unexpected steering input that pulled my vehicle directly into a Jersey barrier, resulting in physical contact with the barrier. I was intentionally and safely moving into the adjacent lane when the system intervened abruptly and steered my…
Coolant bypass valve but toyota of richardson said the csp does not cover it. My engine maintenance required pop up on my dashboard
I am reporting a serious safety concern involving the sunroof glass on my 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD. On July 3, 2026, at approximately 37,350 miles, I was driving the vehicle when the entire sunroof glass suddenly and catastrophically shattered. There was no traffic around me, there was no debris in the roadway, I was not traveling under an overpass, and I am not awar…
Safety ratings
2021 Toyota RAV4 SUV AWD
2021 Toyota RAV4 SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Toyota RAV4.
RAV4
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start
Regular
RAV4
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start
Regular
RAV4 AWD
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start
Regular
RAV4 AWD
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · SIDI & PFI
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, most recently for air bags · sensor · occupant classification (12/20/2023). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Toyota RAV4?
Based on 387 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are air bags (125), unknown or other (75), electrical system (47).
Is the 2021 Toyota RAV4 safe?
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Toyota RAV4?
The 2021 ranks #12 of 14 RAV4 model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (313). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Toyota RAV4 get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 range from 28 to 30 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2021 Toyota RAV4 in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: RAV4.