Used Toyota RAV4: Second-row seat belt webbing damage risk (2006–2012)

RAV4 Used-buyer risk

Toyota RAV4 representative vehicle image
Representative editorial illustration; not an exact year or trim photograph.

Verify with official recall databases, service records, a mechanic inspection, and local market data before relying on this summary.

Short answer

In a severe frontal crash, the webbing of either second-row outboard seat belt can contact part of the metal seat cushion frame, and may be cut or separate.

What to check

In a severe frontal crash, the webbing of either second-row outboard seat belt can contact part of the metal seat cushion frame, and may be cut or separate. This is documented in NHTSA campaign 16V096000, an official safety recall.

Before buying

  • Ask whether campaign 16V096000 was completed for this VIN
  • Inspect both second-row outboard belts for fraying or cuts along the webbing
  • Confirm both belts latch and retract smoothly through their full travel

A recall confirms an identified defect and required remedy for the covered vehicles — it does not by itself tell you whether the remedy was completed on this specific VIN. Always confirm directly.

Safety & recall notes

Confirm NHTSA campaign 16V096000 status for the specific VIN before buying; an open recall is normally repaired by the dealer at no cost.

Buyer inspection checklist

  • Ask whether campaign 16V096000 was completed for this VIN
  • Inspect both second-row outboard belts for fraying or cuts along the webbing
  • Confirm both belts latch and retract smoothly through their full travel

Red flags

  • Visible fraying or a cut edge on second-row seat belt webbing
  • No record of the recall remedy being performed

Keep going

Buyer path

Source & evidence notes

  • NHTSA campaign 16V096000, official record, source_id APPLIED. Not an owner-complaint pattern or manufacturer communication.