Toyota RAV4 hit with fresh stop-sale order and supply issues

Toyota has issued a fresh stop-sale order for its petrol-powered RAV4 SUV and confirmed waiting times of up to six months on popular hybrid variants.

While no-one can second-guess its popularity, the fifth-generation RAV4 has been hit with minor setbacks since launching in Australia in May.

First, Toyota Australia underestimated demand for hybrid variants, causing an initial supply shortage; then, the car-maker was forced to implement a stop-sale order on hybrid variants over a mysterious braking issue which culminated in 2200 vehicles requiring assessment.

The latest setback comes in the form of a stop-sale on a “small number” of two-wheel-drive RAV4 petrol Cruiser variants, a Toyota Australia spokesman confirmed. The number is believed to be less than 1000 vehicles.

“A small number of RAV4 2WD petrol Cruiser vehicles were incorrectly fitted with 18-inch wheels instead of 19-inch wheels. Toyota is aware of the situation, and we are working with all impacted customers to rectify the situation.”

It is understood Toyota is offering a $1500 voucher to affected customers as a means of them keeping their existing 18-inch wheels rather than opting for the correct 19-inch examples.

Another such remedy is a new pilot car loan program being undertaken by Toyota Australia. The spokesman said the initiative was “heavily subsidised” by Toyota Australia, offering affected customers the option of a long-term loan vehicle.

The same measure is also being targeted at those on increasing waiting lists for hybrid RAV4, which have now stretched “up to six months” in the case of some variants.

“Customers who ordered a RAV4 Hybrid Cruiser, our most popular RAV4 model, can currently expect wait times up to six months from the date of purchase.  Other RAV4 Hybrid models currently have different wait times and we urge customers to contact their dealer to discuss options,” the spokesman said.

“The supply situation can change month-to-month and guests can rest assured that Toyota Australia is working closely with our global head office in Japan to try to increase supply and reduce wait times as much as possible.

“Toyota Australia will continue to update dealers with the most current information as is available. We apologise or any inconvenience caused and thank customers for their patience.”

Editors note: the original story cited a waiting period of "longer than six months" based on information from Toyota Australia. The car-maker has since adjusted the waiting time to "up to six months".