2019–2020 Toyota RAV4: Loss of power steering assist (steering gear water intrusion recall)
Likely causes, ranked
- Water entering the steering gear box$0–$0Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: Heavier steering at low speed, an EPS warning, or a sudden loss of power steering assist.
Likely causes
- Water entering the steering gear box. Toyota replaces the power steering gear box.
DIY or shop?
Dealer. Recall repairs are free.
Useful steps
- Check your VIN for 20V373 (Toyota 20TB11 / 20TA11).
- If assist cuts out, get it towed to a dealer rather than fighting the wheel in traffic.
Vehicle focus: 2019–2020 Toyota RAV4.
Safety / mechanic note
Loss of power steering assist raises crash risk, especially at parking-lot speeds. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.
Recalls & service bulletins
Recalls
- 20V373000 2019–2020 RAV4 and 2020 RAV4 Hybrid with electric power steering: water can enter through the steering gear box cover and cause a loss of assist. Dealers replace the power steering gear box. Details
NHTSA complaints: 270 keyword-matched complaints (of 1,539 unique complaints filed under NHTSA model names RAV4, RAV4 HYBRID, 2019–2020; NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-16).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.