Vehicle Advice2 November 2026

Toyota RAV4 PHEV Recall South Africa: 77 Vehicles Affected

Seventy-seven Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle models sold in South Africa are being recalled because a software issue can cause the hybrid system to enter fail-safe mode or shut down, potentially resulting in loss of driving power at higher speed. Owners should contact an authorised Toyota dealer and arrange the free MG-ECU software reprogramming.

Information checked: 2 November 2026. Source: National Consumer Commission.

Motordeal Premium original recall graphic. Details sourced from the National Consumer Commission.

Which vehicles are affected?

The NCC says the recall covers 77 RAV4 PHEV vehicles built from 2 April 2026 to 3 September 2026 and sold nationally. Build dates alone do not confirm inclusion. Ask Toyota or an authorised dealer to check the 17-character vehicle identification number.

The VIN is usually shown on the licence disc, registration documents, and a plate visible near the lower windscreen. Do not post a full VIN publicly.

What is the fault?

The plug-in hybrid system uses a motor generator electronic control unit, known as the MG-ECU. The NCC says the unit may not complete motor initialisation correctly, making the control mode required at higher speeds unavailable.

Warning lights may illuminate and the vehicle may enter a reduced-performance fail-safe mode. In some cases the plug-in hybrid system can shut down. Loss of motive power at higher speed increases crash risk.

What owners should do

Locate the VIN on the licence disc or documents.
Contact an authorised Toyota dealer and request a recall check.
Book the MG-ECU reprogramming if the VIN is affected.
Keep the completed repair order with the service history.
Disclose an unresolved recall if the vehicle is sold before repair.

The NCC says the corrective work is provided at no cost to the consumer. Toyota South Africa customer care is listed as 0800 139 111. Have the VIN ready.

Safety advice if warning lights appear

Do not ignore reduced power, warning lights or unexpected hybrid-system behaviour. Remain calm, indicate, avoid abrupt steering or braking, and move to a safe stopping place as soon as traffic conditions permit.

If the vehicle loses power or cannot maintain a safe speed, do not continue the journey. Arrange recovery and tell the operator it is a plug-in hybrid. Never attempt to reprogram, disconnect or bypass the hybrid system. High-voltage and safety-critical work must be handled by an authorised workshop.

Buying a used RAV4 PHEV?

Ask the seller for the VIN and obtain written confirmation from Toyota that applicable recall campaigns are complete. A service book does not automatically prove that a newly announced recall has been performed.

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