The recall affects 30,978 units of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the US federal agency responsible for vehicle safety oversight.
The defect involves software in the vehicle’s motor generator electronic control unit (ECU), which could encounter an error and trigger a reduction in power or a shutdown of the plug-in hybrid system under certain driving conditions.
"The motor generator ECU may encounter an error, causing the plug-in-hybrid system to reduce power or shut down when driven at higher speeds," the NHTSA said in its recall notice.
The agency warned that the malfunction could leave drivers unexpectedly without power, potentially increasing the likelihood of an accident, particularly when travelling at high speeds or navigating busy roads.
"An unexpected powertrain shutdown can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash," the recall notice stated.
Software update to address the defect
Toyota dealers will correct the problem by updating the affected vehicle software at no cost to owners. The remedy is intended to prevent the control unit error that could lead to the loss of propulsion.
According to the NHTSA, notification letters informing vehicle owners of the recall are expected to begin arriving on November 22. Toyota said affected customers would be notified by early December.
The recall highlights the growing importance of software reliability in modern vehicles, particularly plug-in hybrids that depend on coordinated electronic systems to manage their electric motors and other powertrain components.
Owners of affected 2026 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid vehicles should look out for official recall notifications and arrange the free software update through an authorised Toyota dealership.
The NHTSA advises motorists to take vehicle recalls seriously, as defects affecting power delivery can create potentially dangerous situations on the road. Owners can also check their vehicle identification number (VIN) through the agency’s official recall website to determine whether their vehicle is affected.