The problem
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2018 RAV4 vehicles. Certain replacement 12-volt batteries may not fit properly in the battery tray, allowing the battery to move and contact the hold-down bracket, possibly causing a short circuit.
The risk
A battery short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
The fix
Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 27, 2024, to 2013-2014 RAV4 owners. Additional owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, phase 2 will begin on May 14, 2025, and phase 3 in late July 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 23TB13 and 23TA13.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 23V-734 (23V734000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 23TB13 / 23TA13 |
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Electrical system › 12V/24V/48V battery |
| Report date | November 1, 2023 |
| Owners notified | December 27, 2024 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,853,568 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 23V-734 repair free?
Yes. Toyota dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the battery clamp sub-assembly, battery tray, and positive terminal cover, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 27, 2024, to 2013-2014 RAV4 owners.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,853,568 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.