NHTSA complaint #11733025

Owner complaint summary

I have a 2021 TYTA RAV4 HYBRID XLE PREMIUM AWD, the driver seat is very slow moving forward and backwards twisting and preventing to fully go forward and backwards. I need to get out and in of my vehicle. So I have to move in back and forth to get out and move it forward to see over the dash board. I am concerned it makes a load noise. What if it fails to move. This is a critical danger to me the driver. I have passengers to consider. This is absolutely unsafe. This is allowed? Where is the recall? This is unlike Toyota to do nothing. I have platinum coverage purchased at time of purchase of this brand new vehicle on 12/31/2021. Apparently, it causes it other damage to other components and parts. There is alot of other components and parts under the front driver seat. I went it to have it looked at on March 30, 2026. Service advisor states: They ordered the parts its a seat frame sub assembly with motor. $1785.92 Covered by platinum Coverage, not all the parts are covered that are damaged. it will cost me: $448.87 for components and parts damaged but are not covered plus labor for Shield (71812-0R140-C0) and Holder (7181B-0R010) After further investigation it is a symptom of a failed internal component within this assembly—most commonly a stripped plastic gear or a bent drive shaft. So looking it up many Toyota Brand owners are experiencing the same thing and are having to replace other parts caused by this. This is a dangerous situation for me and others. What if it fails to move forward or reverse or motor stops? A partial repair is unacceptable. Leaving damaged trim and holders creates a risk of wire-chaffing and further mechanical stress on the new assembly. For the safety of the driver and the longevity of the vehicle, the repair must be 100% complete. This would be out of pocket monies families don't have. $2,234.79 total repair cost acts as a "safety tax" that prevents families from fixing this critical defect. I can not afford: $448.