If you searched “Toyota RAV4 battery recall,” you probably want one thing. You want to know if your RAV4 is affected and what to do next.
Yes, there is an active safety recall tied to the 12-volt battery on certain 2013 to 2018 Toyota RAV4 models. The fix is free. Your first move is a VIN check on Toyota’s recall lookup or NHTSA’s recall tool.
Toyota RAV4 Battery Recall
Quick Answer Summary
| Item | What You Need To Know |
|---|---|
| Affected Model Years | Certain 2013 to 2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles |
| Recall Numbers | NHTSA 23V734000, Toyota 23TA13, Interim Notice 23TB13 |
| Vehicles Involved | About 1,854,000 |
| What The Problem Is | The 12-volt battery can shift during forceful turns and short out if the positive terminal contacts the hold-down clamp |
| Why It Matters | Short circuit heat can raise fire risk |
| Free Fix | Dealer replaces the battery hold-down clamp, battery tray, and positive terminal cover |
| Fix Timing | Toyota rolled the remedy out by model year phase. Your VIN status is the final answer |
60-Second “What To Do Now” List
- Grab your VIN. It is on your registration, insurance card, or the lower driver-side windshield.
- Run the VIN in Toyota’s recall lookup.
- Run the VIN in the NHTSA recall tool.
- If it shows “open,” call a Toyota dealer and schedule the repair.
- If it shows “open” but parts are not ready, ask the dealer about an inspection and keep your battery receipt if you replaced it recently.
Is There A Toyota RAV4 Battery Recall Right Now?
Yes. Toyota filed a safety recall for certain 2013 to 2018 RAV4 vehicles tied to the 12-volt battery fit and hold-down setup. The defect can show up after a battery replacement, especially if the replacement battery has smaller top dimensions and the clamp torque is not correct.
What Battery Recall Usually Means On A RAV4
Most people hear “battery recall” and think hybrid battery. That is not what this one is about.
This recall focuses on the regular 12-volt battery. That is the battery that powers startups, lights, locks, and electronics. Hybrid models still have a 12-volt battery too, so the smartest move is simple: check your VIN and do not guess.
Quick Facts You Should Know Before You Call A Dealer
- Model years: 2013 to 2018 RAV4 (VIN check required)
- Recall IDs: NHTSA 23V734000, Toyota 23TA13 (interim notice 23TB13)
- What can happen: battery movement during forceful turns, then a short circuit if the positive terminal touches the hold-down clamp
- Risk: heat and potential fire risk in and around the battery area
- Free repair: replace the hold-down clamp, battery tray, and positive terminal cover
If you recently replaced your 12-volt battery, I would also pull the receipt before you call. Date, brand, and the battery group size are the three details that solve most back-and-forth with service writers.
Which RAV4 Years Are Affected By The Battery Recall?
Toyota and NHTSA list this as a 2013 to 2018 Toyota RAV4 recall. The build window is late November 2012 through mid-November 2018. The Part 573 report lists it more precisely as November 23, 2012 through November 14, 2018.
I still treat the VIN check as mandatory. Not every vehicle built in that date range was sold in the U.S. And this recall applies to RAV4s with a specific battery tray and hold-down design.
Affected Years And Production Window
| RAV4 Model Year | Build Dates Covered | NHTSA Campaign | Toyota Campaign | Approx Vehicles | Remedy Status In Toyota Remedy Notice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Nov 23, 2012 to Nov 14, 2018 build window applies | 23V734000 | 23TA13 | Included in totals | Phase 1: Available Now |
| 2014 | Nov 23, 2012 to Nov 14, 2018 build window applies | 23V734000 | 23TA13 | Included in totals | Phase 1: Available Now |
| 2015 | Nov 23, 2012 to Nov 14, 2018 build window applies | 23V734000 | 23TA13 | Included in totals | Phase 2: Estimated Late April 2025 |
| 2016 | Nov 23, 2012 to Nov 14, 2018 build window applies | 23V734000 | 23TA13 | Included in totals | Phase 2: Estimated Late April 2025 |
| 2017 | Nov 23, 2012 to Nov 14, 2018 build window applies | 23V734000 | 23TA13 | Included in totals | Phase 3: Estimated Late July 2025 |
| 2018 | Nov 23, 2012 to Nov 14, 2018 build window applies | 23V734000 | 23TA13 | Included in totals | Phase 3: Estimated Late July 2025 |
Here is the cleanest way I think about the vehicle count.
- NHTSA Part 573 report lists 1,853,568 potentially involved vehicles.
- Toyota materials commonly round it to about 1,854,000.
- Toyota’s remedy notice breaks it into phases by model year:
- 2013 and 2014: about 422,000
- 2015 and 2016: about 616,000
- 2017 and 2018: about 816,000
Recall Number Decoder
These codes confuse people. I use this quick decoder.
- 23V-734: The NHTSA recall campaign.
- 23V734000: The same campaign written in the format many recall databases display.
- 23TA13: Toyota’s recall campaign code for the remedy.
- 23TB13: Toyota’s earlier interim notice code used before the final remedy rollout.
If your VIN lookup shows any of those, you are in the right place.
What’s The Actual Problem (And Why It Can Lead To A Fire)?
This recall is not about the hybrid traction battery. It is about the 12-volt battery in the engine bay.
The risk shows up when a replacement 12-volt battery does not fit the tray the way Toyota expected, and the hold-down clamp is not tightened to the correct torque. Under hard cornering, the battery can shift.
The Chain Reaction In Plain English
This is the sequence Toyota describes, translated into how it happens in real driving.
- The 12-volt battery is replaced at some point in the vehicle’s life.
- Some replacement batteries have smaller top dimensions than others, even when they are sold as the right group size.
- If the hold-down clamp is not tightened correctly, clamping force drops.
- During forceful turns that create high lateral G-force, the battery can move in the tray.
- The battery’s positive terminal can contact the hold-down bracket.
- That contact can create a short circuit.
- A short circuit can generate heat.
- Enough heat can damage nearby components and raise fire risk.
That is why this is an electrical-system recall and not just a “battery fitment tip.”
Why Replacement Batteries Matter So Much
Toyota calls out SAE Group 35 as the specified 12-volt battery size for these RAV4s. The tricky part is this.
Some aftermarket batteries marketed as Group 35 can have a smaller top case dimension than others. That can reduce how well the hold-down assembly keeps the battery from shifting. Add a clamp that is not tightened to spec, and the chance of movement goes up.
I see this most often when a battery is installed fast. Or when a shop reuses hardware and something is missing. Or when the battery is positioned slightly off in the tray.
Battery Size Terms You Will See At The Store
If you are shopping batteries, you will see “Group Size” labels. Here is what matters for this recall.
- SAE Group 35 is the key term to know.
- “Group 35” is not a single exact shape across every brand.
- Top case dimensions and terminal position can vary by brand, even within the same group label.
If your RAV4 is covered by the recall, the best move is still the recall repair. Toyota’s remedy is designed to handle real-world battery variation better by replacing the tray, the hold-down clamp, and the positive terminal cover.
How Do I Check If My RAV4 Is Part Of The Recall?
I do this in 3 minutes. I use 2 lookups. Toyota first. NHTSA second. If both agree, I treat that as the answer.
Check On The Toyota Recall Lookup (VIN Or Plate)
This is the fastest way for most owners.
- Find your VIN. It is 17 characters.
- Enter the VIN in Toyota’s recall lookup.
- If you do not have the VIN, use your license plate plus your state.
- Save the result. I take a screenshot.
If Toyota shows an open campaign like 23TA13 or 23TB13, I call the dealer next.
Check On The NHTSA Recall Tool (Step By Step)
I use this as the second confirmation. It is also quick.
- Find the VIN on the lower driver-side windshield.
- You can also find it on the driver door jamb label.
- Enter the VIN in NHTSA’s recall lookup.
- Review the result for open safety recalls.
If NHTSA shows an open recall like 23V734000, the vehicle still needs the recall repair.
How To Read The Results
This is how I interpret what you will see.
Open Recall
The recall applies to your VIN. The repair has not been recorded as completed. Call a Toyota dealer and schedule it.
Remedy Not Available Yet
The recall applies to your VIN, but Toyota may be rolling parts out by model year. Your dealer can still confirm status in Toyota’s system and tell you if parts can be ordered.
Completed Or Closed
The recall repair is recorded as done for your VIN. I still keep the paperwork. It helps at resale.
Pro Tip
If Toyota and NHTSA results do not match, I call the dealer and ask them to check the VIN in Toyota’s internal campaign system. I also re-check the VIN for typos. One wrong digit can flip the result.
When Will The Fix Be Available? (Updated Timeline By Model Year)
Toyota published a phased rollout by model year for the remedy parts and owner letters. Those target dates were in 2024 and 2025. That is in the past now.
In 2026, most owners should be able to get the recall repair completed. Your VIN status is still the final answer. Parts availability can vary by dealer and region.
Remedy Timing By Model Year (Toyota’s Phased Plan)
| RAV4 Model Year | Remedy Phase | Toyota Timing In Remedy Notice |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Phase 1 | Available Now, Owner Letters Started December 27, 2024 |
| 2014 | Phase 1 | Available Now, Owner Letters Started December 27, 2024 |
| 2015 | Phase 2 | Available Late April 2025 (Estimated) |
| 2016 | Phase 2 | Available Late April 2025 (Estimated) |
| 2017 | Phase 3 | Available Late July 2025 (Estimated) |
| 2018 | Phase 3 | Available Late July 2025 (Estimated) |
If your VIN shows the recall is open today, I assume one of two things is happening.
- The dealer has not completed it yet.
- The system has not recorded it yet.
Either way, I treat it as a schedule-now task.
What I Do If The Dealer Says “Parts Aren’t Available”
This happens. Here is how I keep it moving.
- I ask them to confirm the campaign is open for my VIN in their Toyota campaign system.
- I ask if they can order the recall parts kit for my VIN.
- I ask for the next available appointment date after parts arrive.
- I ask for a record of the call. A repair order note or a case number helps.
- If I recently replaced the 12-volt battery, I bring the receipt. Date, brand, and group size are the key details.
If you are buying a used RAV4 with this recall open, I ask the seller to complete the recall before delivery. If they will not, I negotiate the price using the open recall as leverage.
What Will Toyota Replace For Free?
Toyota’s recall repair focuses on the parts that keep the 12-volt battery from shifting and the parts that shield the positive terminal.
Here is what the dealer replaces at no cost.
Parts Toyota Replaces In The Recall Repair
- Battery hold-down clamp assembly
- Battery tray
- Positive terminal cover
In the repair instructions, Toyota also calls out supporting items that get installed or applied as part of the fix.
- New J-hook hardware for the hold-down
- Repair tape applied around the terminal metal area
- A caution label added to the hold-down clamp (if it is not already there)
What The Appointment Is Like
This is what I expect when I book this recall.
- The service advisor verifies the recall is open on my VIN.
- The parts department confirms the recall kit is in stock or can be ordered.
- The tech removes the battery, swaps the tray and hold-down parts, then installs the updated positive terminal cover.
- The tech torques the positive terminal nut to spec. Toyota lists 7.6 N·m, which is 67 in-lbf.
- The tech checks the battery for movement by pushing in multiple directions.
- The dealer closes the campaign in Toyota’s system.
Pro Tip
Before I drive over, I ask one direct question on the phone.
Do you have the 23TA13 recall parts on hand for my VIN today?
That saves wasted trips.
What Should I Do Right Now If My RAV4 Is Recalled?
I keep this simple. I follow the VIN status. Then I act.
Decision Tree: What I Do Based On My VIN Status
If My VIN Shows The Remedy Is Available
- I schedule the repair with a Toyota dealer.
- I ask them to confirm they can complete it the same day.
- I keep the repair order when I pick up the vehicle.
If My VIN Shows Open Recall But The Dealer Says They Cannot Complete It Yet
- I ask the dealer to confirm the campaign is open in their Toyota system.
- I ask if they can order the parts kit for my VIN.
- I ask for the next appointment date after parts arrive.
- I keep a record of the call. A repair order note or a case number helps.
If I Recently Replaced The 12-Volt Battery
This is the info I gather before I call the dealer.
- Battery receipt with the date
- Battery brand and model number
- Battery group size shown on the label (Group 35 is the key spec Toyota references)
- Who installed it (DIY, dealer, independent shop, parts store)
- A quick photo of the battery area with the hold-down visible
That set of details solves most delays.
Battery Safety Do And Don’t Basics
I keep this conservative. I do not try to “engineer” a fix myself.
Do
- Get the recall repair scheduled if your VIN is open.
- If you see a missing hold-down piece or a loose battery, get it checked the same day.
- Keep the positive terminal covered. That cover exists for a reason.
Don’t
- Don’t drive around with a battery that can move by hand.
- Don’t ignore burning plastic smell, smoke, or visible sparking near the battery.
- Don’t improvise with spacers, zip ties, or mixed hardware.
- Don’t assume “new battery” means “safe.” Fit and clamp torque matter.
If anything looks wrong in that battery area, I stop the trip and call for help. A short circuit is not something I gamble with.
Can I Get Reimbursed If I Paid Out Of Pocket?
Yes, in a lot of cases you can.
Toyota’s owner letter for this recall says you may be eligible for reimbursement if you paid for repairs for this specific condition before you received the recall notice.
I treat this like a paperwork job. If you have clean receipts, it usually goes smoother.
The Toyota Reimbursement Path I Use
Option 1: Toyota Owners Portal
- Log in to your Toyota Owners account.
- Go to the Resources tab.
- Open Safety Recalls And Service Campaigns.
- Select Submit Reimbursement Request.
- Upload your documents.
Option 2: Mail Or Fax
Toyota’s owner letter lists a mailing address and fax number for reimbursement submissions.
- Toyota Brand Engagement Center – TSR
- Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
- c/o Toyota Motor North America, Inc.
- P O Box 259001, SSC/CSP Reimbursements
- Plano, Texas 75025-9001
- Fax: 310-381-7756
The Documents That Usually Matter
This is what I gather before I submit anything.
- Repair details. A repair order or invoice is best.
- Proof-of-payment. Credit card receipt, paid invoice, or bank record.
- Ownership information. Anything that ties the VIN to you during the time of repair.
- VIN. I include it on every page.
- Dates. Repair date and payment date.
If the repair happened at a Toyota dealer, I also ask that dealer for a duplicate repair order. Dealers can often reprint it.
A Quick Note About The Class Action Settlement Sites
There is also a class action settlement website tied to 2013 to 2018 RAV4 vehicles associated with Recall 23V-734.
Two things matter if you are researching this in 2026.
- The settlement site states hybrid vehicles are not included in the recall or the settlement.
- The settlement site states the deadlines to submit claim forms passed in 2025.
That means a lot of people reading this now will not be able to file a new reimbursement claim through that settlement process. The same site also describes an inspection program, so I would still check the latest settlement updates if you think you qualify for any remaining benefits.
For most owners today, the recall repair itself is the main win. It is free.
Should I Buy A Used RAV4 With An Open Battery Recall?
Yes, I would buy it, but only if I control the next steps.
In the U.S., there is no blanket federal rule that stops a dealer from selling a used car with an open recall. New cars are different. Used cars can slip through. So I treat this as a buyer diligence item.
My Used RAV4 Recall Checklist
- Run the VIN on Toyota’s recall lookup.
- Run the VIN on NHTSA’s recall lookup.
- Ask the seller for the repair order if they say it was fixed.
- Call a Toyota dealer and ask them to confirm recall status on that VIN.
- If the recall is open, ask the dealer if they can schedule it now.
If I am buying from a Toyota store, I push hard for recall completion before delivery. If they want the sale, they can usually make that happen.
The Negotiation Leverage I Use
If the recall is open, I use these terms.
- Complete the recall before I pick up the vehicle.
- Provide a printed repair order showing the campaign was closed.
- If parts are not available that day, I want it in writing as a “we owe.”
If the seller will not do any of that, I discount the offer. I treat an open safety recall as a time cost.
How I Confirm The Recall Repair Was Really Completed
I do not rely on a verbal “it’s done.”
I want 2 items.
- The dealer repair order that lists the recall campaign code.
- The VIN lookup status showing the recall is closed.
I check again a few days after the repair. Databases can lag.
FAQs
Q: Is this a hybrid battery recall or a 12V battery recall?
A: This one is about the 12-volt battery area and the hold-down parts. It is not the hybrid traction battery recall. I still tell every hybrid owner to check the VIN, because hybrids also have a 12-volt battery.
Q: Is it safe to drive my RAV4 with an open battery recall?
A: I drive based on what I see under the hood. If the battery is solid and the terminal is covered, I schedule the recall and keep driving normally. If the battery can move by hand, I stop and get it inspected the same day.
Q: What if my dealer says parts aren’t available?
A: I ask them to confirm the campaign is open for my VIN, then I ask them to order the parts kit and set an appointment date for when it arrives. I also ask for a repair order note or a case number.
Q: What battery group size does the RAV4 use?
A: Toyota references SAE Group Size 35 for the vehicles covered by this recall. I still match the exact spec for my trim and engine, because labeling can vary by brand.
Q: How long does the recall repair take?
A: The owner letter says about 45 minutes for the remedy work. Dealer scheduling can add time.
Q: Can I replace the battery myself while the recall is open?
A: You can replace a 12-volt battery, but this recall exists because fit and clamp torque matter. If you replace it, I would use the correct group size, keep the terminal covered, and schedule the recall repair anyway.
Q: How do I know the recall repair was completed?
A: I look for a closed recall status on the VIN lookup and I keep the dealer repair order that lists the recall campaign.
Sources
- NHTSA Part 573 Safety Recall Report (23V-734)
- Toyota Remedy Notice (23V-734 / 23TA13)
- RAV4 Battery Assembly Settlement Site
- Consumer Reports Recall Guide
Hey there,
How is it going?
I’m Meraj Sarker. I am a Car Mechanic and a student of Automobile Restoration here in Florida, USA. I’ve been studying automotive for around 9 years now. So you can rely on my recommendation. For me, studying and getting knowledge about automobile it’s really fun and entertaining. I will help you to get solutions for your car through this website. If you need any help let me know.