Date: 2021-02-25
Toyota
Motor Corporation
NHTSA Action Number: PE21005
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Subject: Battery Hold Down Bracket Thermal Events
Opened From: 2021-02-25 - 2024-08-12
NHTSA Recall Number: 23V734
Summary
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to understand the contributing factors and frequency of vehicle fires originating from the battery region of the engine compartment in Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles on 25 February 2021. At the time of opening, ODI attributed eleven allegations and additional EWR events to this PE. PE21005 focused on replacement batteries installed in the subject vehicles. No reported fire event identified in PE21005 involved the originally supplied 12V battery. The reported fires took place in vehicles known to contain aftermarket batteries or whose age exceeded the expected life of the original equipment battery. ODI identified battery dimensioning as it relates to the battery retention system (hold down bracket, radiator support bolt, J-hook, and battery tray) as the main factor set in the contact between the battery hold down bracket contacting the positive terminal of the 12V battery. The subject vehicles carried over the same battery tray and retention system from the prior generation (MY2006 ' MY2012) of RAV4 vehicles. However, the subject vehicles were equipped with a dimensionally smaller battery (Group 35) than the prior generation (Group 24F). The smaller- length measurement in the Group 35 battery size in a battery tray originally designed to fit a Group 24F battery contributed to increased potential for battery movement which was exacerbated by the diversity in aftermarket battery configuration and irregularities intrinsic to battery replacement procedures. Battery movement coupled with the proximity of the B+ terminal on the battery and the grounded electrically conductive hold down bracket set the stage for a short to ground leading to an engine stall (if in operation) followed by a vehicle fire. This investigation was not able to classify the installation status, battery size, or cause of every allegation due to the fire event causing damage to the area, inaccessible vehicle, modification to the battery retention system after the event, and/or inconclusive photographic evidence. Toyota's investigation of the issue identified aftermarket battery catalogs that listed an improper battery replacement size (Group 26R) that would nevertheless fit into the subject vehicles whose battery retention system is incapable of reliably restraining a Group 26R battery. On 18 November 2021, Toyota initiated a consumer advisory campaign (21TG01) to the subject vehicle owners, notifying them of the correct size battery and offering a free inspection of the battery and retention hardware, a caution label to affix to the hold down bracket, and a discounted replacement 12V battery. This investigation with Toyota established three broad categories to characterize the battery retention system state of a given vehicle: "correct", "minor mis-installation", and "major mis-installation". - The "correct" terminology references the front bolt, bracket, and J-hook installed in a position not in contact with the positive battery terminal and the front bolt torqued to 17 Nm and the J-hook engaged with the tray hole and torqued to 4.9 Nm. - A "minor mis-installation" would describe the three retention components installed in the prescribed location, however not to the correct torque values. - The "major mis-installation" condition would constitute a retention component missing or disconnected from the system. Toyota's own testing used five exemplar batteries installed on a subject vehicle in each battery categorization resulted in: - Contact between the B+ terminal and hold down bracket in "major mis-installations" - Movement of the battery in "minor mis-installations" - No observable motion in "correct" installations. ODI conducted its own evaluation of the Toyota- specified replacement battery and 5 aftermarket Group 35 batteries. The six batteries tested conformed to the Group 35 Battery Council International (BCI) standard on overall dimensional tolerance and terminal location. That standard does not define the edge shape or material of battery casing. Physical interaction between the hold down bracket and the battery case and the friction between the casing material and the battery tray resulted in a large variability in movement forces required to incite movement when the battery was installed in the "correct" condition. Resulting in movement at an induced lateral load between 0.6 G and 1.91 G equivalent force across each battery. This force is higher than a typical vehicle could exert in a steady state turn and would only experience loads through brief shock or impulses. Multiple shock or impulse loads across time would contribute to a delay between the replacement battery installation and the fire event. Likelihood of a fire event increases as the installation method degraded from the "correct", to "minor mis-installation", and then to "major mis-installation". Protruding vent caps atop some of the batteries tested aided in restricting battery movement relative to the hold down. An absence of vent caps permitted additional movement. Following several discussions and vehicle inspections with ODI during this investigation, on 01 November 2023, Toyota filed a safety recall (NHTSA 23V-734) of 1,853,568 MY 2013 through MY 2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles to reduce the risk of a vehicle fire with redesigned battery retention components. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
For Documents Related to this Investigation go to NHTSA Website
Click on the (+) Plus Sign
Then Click on Associated Document(s)
More Info on this Investigation on the NHTSA WebsiteSearch NHTSA Database for Recalls
Search NHTSA Database for (TSB's) Technical Service Bulletins
View Latest (TSB's) Technical Service Bulletins
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Complaints
View Latest Vehicle Complaints
- 【HIGH COST-EFFECTIVE SCANNER FOR CAR】The VD70S OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool offers top-tier features and hardware for accurate, fast diagnostics. Enjoy 30X faster wireless WiFi connectivity, bi-directional control, 36+ hot services, OE all system diagnostics with 8-in-nne data graph, ECU coding, and PMI. With advanced functions like V.A.G Guided Function, CAN FD & DoIP, and FCA AutoAuth, this escaner automotriz supports 100,000+ vehicles. The Android 10.0 OS, 2+64GB and a long-lasting 18.25Wh battery make it perfect for professionals and DIY mechanics. Get 3 years of f*ree updates and 15 languages for worldwide use!
- 【WIRELESS WiFi & WIRED DUAL CONNECTION】Compared with traditional BT connection, VD70S car scanner diagnostic tool makes innovative use of the 2025 latest ✔30X faster WiFi wireless connection technology. The VD70S offers both wireless and wired connections, with a diagnostic range of 66ft or further while maintaining a stable connection. Enjoy the freedom to move around during repairs for added convenience and flexibility. ✔NOTE: No extra WiFi needed. Just plug the VCI into the OBD2 port, and the scanner will connect automatically.
- 【4000+ BI-DIRECTIONAL CONTROL】VD70S bidirectional scan tool allows sending commands to the ECU to perform active tests, such as A/C Clutch Test, Fuel Injector Test, window, sunroof test etc. Significantly reduce diagnostic time and boost 5X faster efficiency. It is a must have tool for every auto technicians and mechanics. ✔Note: Active tests available vary across vehicles, please provide VIN for compatibility check.
- 【36+ SERVICES & RESETS, RELEARNS, CALIBRATIONS, ADAPTATIONS, INITIALIZATIONS】VD70S scan tool offers 36+ commonly used maintenance reset functions to meet the needs of every mechanic, including ✔Crank Sensor Relearn, ✔Oil Reset, ✔EPB, ✔SAS, ✔BMS, ✔Throttle, ✔Injector Coding, ✔ABS Bleed, ✔TPMS, ✔ABS Initialization, ✔Fuel Trim Reset, ✔SWS Calibration, ✔Idle Relearn etc. ✔For more advanced hidden functions, please check your diagnostic tool menu: Diagnose>Select Specific System>Special Functions. Note: Functions vary by vehicles. Please check compatibility with VIN & functions via ✔vdiagtool2 @ outlook . c o m before purchase.
- 【OE All SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICS & 8-IN-ONE GRAPHING】Perform full system diagnostics on your vehicle with the VD70S car scanner to ✔Read ECU Info, ✔Read/Clear Codes, ✔View Freeze-Frame, ✔View Live Data Stream, ✔Export Data as CSV, and ✔Perform 8-In-1 Graphing for a comprehensive view of your car’s performance. ✔Perform Active Tests and Special Functions to keep your vehicle running at peak performance. ✔V2.0 Diagnostic Reports allow you to add logos, customer info, and attachments, providing dealership-level diagnostics and accurate, in-depth reports.
- Your Efficient Solution for Car Maintenance: The 2025 VD70 OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool is designed by a professionals for automotive technicians, workshops, and DIY enthusiasts, ensuring no unnecessary costs are added to the price. It provides OE All Systems Diagnostics, 36+ Reset Functions, Bi-Directional Control, and ECU Coding, etc. With 2+64GB storage, an 18.25Wh battery, and 3 years of free updates, it’s built for both immediate and long-term use, offering dependable support for a wide range of vehicle maintenance tasks.
- Why You Need a OBD2 Scanner with Bidirectional: With the VD70, you get a full bidirectional scan tool capable of performing 4000+ active tests. It can command car modules and receive data from the ECU to test components like EVAP, ABS pumps, windows, and more—all with one tool. This helps you pinpoint faults accurately, saving time and money by reducing trips to the shop and the need for multiple scanners. Whether you're a pro or a DIYer, this diagnostic tool simplifies complex diagnostics. Pro Tip: Send us your VIN before purchase to confirm compatibility.
- 36+ Special Functions & Vehicle-Specific Features: The VD70 OBD2 scanner offers 36+ services, including Oil Reset, EPB, BMS, Throttle Adaptation, Injector Coding, ABS Bleed, Crank Sensor Relearn and TPMS Reset. It also provides vehicle-specific functions include reset, adaptation, initialization, and calibration. These capabilities help you perform comprehensive tasks like system reset with ease. Note: Features vary by vehicle make and model. Please check compatibility with your VIN by contacting us at vdiagtool2 @ outlook . c o m before purchase.
- Advanced ECU Coding & PMI for Specific Brands: This auto diagnostic scanner supports advanced ECU coding for specific european vehicles for VW, for Audi, for Skoda, for Mercedes-Benz, for Mitsubishi. It also enables ecu coding for BMW, for Volkswagen, for Jaguar, and for Land Rover. From coding and component matching to adaptive data resets, this scan tool helps you flash hidden features and match components after repairs or replacements. Note: ECU coding functionality varies by vehicle and module, please check the compatibility before order.
- OE All-System Diagnostics & 8-in-One Data Graphing: With full system diagnostics, the VD70 automotive diagnostic scanner covers essential vehicle systems such as Engine, Transmission, ABS, Airbags, Brake, Chassis, and more. It allows you to read/clear codes, access ECU information, view live data streams. You can export data as CSV, record/playback data, view freeze-frame data, and perform active tests and services-all with one car computer diagnostic tool. This comprehensive analysis helps pinpoint issues quickly, leading to more accurate repairs.
- 【A MUST-HAVE TOOL FOR DIYERS】- VDIAGTOOL VD10 car code reader is an incredibly useful obd scanner for each car owner or hobbyist, even for those with little to no experience when it comes to vehicle mechanics! Using this car diagnostic scanner is extremely easy. All you have to do is attach it to your car OBDII port and you can diagnose car problems in seconds! Read Codes (DTCs); Clear Codes; Live Data; View Freeze Frame; I/M Readiness; Vehicle Information.
- 【KEEP ENGINE IN GOOD STATUS】- VDIAGTOOL check engine code reader brings a fast access to scan, read the car fault code, show its definition on the screen instantly, troubleshooting to find the root causes of problems, erase the engine fault code and turn off the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light).car code reader
- 【READ/CLEAR CODES & DTC LOOKUP】- No search online & saving your time, this vehicle car code reader retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, pending codes and displays DTC definitions based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes) on the TFT screen, find out the root causes and clear the codes after fixed.
- 【LIVE DATA & RETRIEVE FREEZE FRAME】- This diagnostic scan tool for accurate diagnosis enables you to retrieve data from vehicle sensors, such as Engine RPM, Intake air temperature, Short/Long term fuel, Misfire data and etc. The freeze frame is stored in the PCM together with the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the fault. VD10 car code reader car scanner can be a valuable & practical diagnostic aid and also greatly help when diagnosing intermittent problems.
- 【I/M READINESS for THE S-nn-0-g CHECK】- OBDII vehicle may not pass the annual inspection unless the required monitors since reset are complete. So you should at least read the readiness monitors and make sure they are ready. This car obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with I/M readiness function to check the operations of the e-m-issi0n system on OBD2 compliant vehicles, run I/M monitor readiness test, checking if the pass vehicle s-m-0-g inspection.
- 【ENHANCED OBDII SCANNER DIAGNOSTIC TOOL】VDIAGTOOL VD30 Pro performs all 10 OBD2 tests: Turn off Check Engine Light(CEL) , Read/Clear Fault Codes , Live Data(4-In-1 Graphing) , Freeze Frame , One-Click I/M Readin_ess(Smo_g Check) , On-Board Monitor Test(Mode 06) , Component Test , O2 Sensor Test , Vehicle Info , Module Present and useful features like , Voltage Test , DTC Lookup , Data Playback & Printing. Get this car code reader today and save your time and costly trip to a dealership!
- 【EASY TO USE】The VDIAGTOOL VD30 Pro obd2 scanner is specifically designed for car owners, providing an intuitive and user-friendly interface that caters to individuals with limited automotive knowledge. It effectively diagnoses the cause of the check engine light, retrieves and clears engine fault codes, deactivates the check engine light (MIL), and resets monitors.
- 【RELIABLE PERFORMANCE LASTS FOR YEARS】The VDIAGTOOL VD30 Pro car code reader and reset tool is meticulously crafted using the latest upgraded chip, and high-quality wear-resistant and drop-resistant materials to withstand the most challenging conditions, offering longevity and reliability in every diagnostic session. Continuously updated to ensure compatibility with the latest vehicle models and technologies, it promises reliable performance for years to come.
- 【ONE-CLICK SMO_G CHECK】 VDIAGTOOL VD30 Pro OBD2 scanner code reader features One-Click I/M Readiness hot key that shows various sensors ready status on a single screen and help you keep the engin_e in good conditions, and get the vehicle ready for the annual smo_g check.
- 【DTC LOOKUP+VOLTAGE TEST+DATA REVIEW, PLAYBACK & PRINTING】VDIAGTOOL VD30 Pro auto scanner comes with 98563+ built-in DTC library that shows brief fault code definitions right on the display. This scanner for car comes with voltage test feature to check real-time battery voltage and no more voltage too low to start the car again. Data Review & Playback and Printing features allow you to review the recorded live data, play it back or print it out to share with your mechanic or customers.
- 【Why VDIAGTOOL VD70 Lite is A Game Changer?】VDIAGTOOL VD70 Lite offers essential car inspection and repair features at a more affordable price(Under $300), including Full Bidirectional Controls, OE Factory Level All Systems Diagnostics, 31+ Hot Services, CAN FD & DoIP, Comprehensive Data Streaming Capabilities (Export as CSV, Recording, Playback, 8-in-One), 3-Year Software Update, etc. Perfect choice for DIYers, Car Owners, Technicians and Mechanics!
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
