In a recent development, Toyota has announced a recall of approximately 1.9 million RAV4 SUVs in the United States due to potential engine fire risks. However, despite four complaints of engine fires occurring with the vehicles' ignitions turned off, the automaker is not advising owners to park their recalled vehicles outdoors.

The recall comes in the midst of an ongoing investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) into engine fires caused by replacement battery issues in RAV4s. This model, known for its popularity as the top-selling vehicle in the U.S. that isn't a pickup truck, has garnered attention for safety concerns.

According to NHTSA documents, the agency has received a total of nine reports suggesting that the 12-volt batteries may have led to fires, electrical power loss, or engine stalling. Additionally, there have been eight reports of fires originating from the driver's side of the engine compartment, where the battery is located.

Alarming reports indicate that four of these incidents occurred with the ignition turned off, raising concerns about the safety of continued vehicle use. However, Toyota spokesperson Aaron Fowles stated that the company is not advising owners to park their RAV4 SUVs outdoors. Instead, they are urging owners who have not yet had their vehicles inspected to visit a dealer promptly. These inspections will verify that replacement batteries have been installed correctly and that holding clamps are securely fastened. Once the recall repairs become available, owners are advised to have them completed as soon as possible.

In response to the recall, Toyota issued a consumer advisory in 2021, urging owners to take their RAV4s to a dealer for a thorough inspection at no cost. The automaker is committed to rectifying the issue and is working towards a fix. When ready, authorized dealers will replace the hold-down clamp, battery tray, and positive terminal cover with improved components. Toyota aims to notify affected owners by late December.

Furthermore, Toyota has discovered 22 "field technical reports" in the U.S., although it did not clarify whether these reports involved fires. The company explained that these reports were generated by Toyota staff and documented the inspection of owner allegations related to the recall issue.

The investigation into the RAV4 engine fire risks began in February 2021, following 11 complaints received by NHTSA. These complaints detailed thermal events such as fires, melting, or smoke related to the RAV4 model. Of these incidents, four took place with the ignition turned off. Additionally, half of the cases involved instances of stalling before the thermal event occurred, with the 12-volt battery identified as the point of origin in most incidents.

Owners of RAV4 SUVs can determine if their vehicles are included in the recall by visiting the official NHTSA website and entering their vehicle identification number.

As the recall progresses and investigations continue, Toyota faces mounting pressure to address the potential risks associated with their popular RAV4 SUVs. The safety of the vehicles and the wellbeing of their owners remain paramount, prompting the company to prioritize swift resolutions and effective communication regarding repair measures.