Two problems related to door latch have been reported for the 1996 Toyota RAV4. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
In cold weather, below 30 degrees, both front door lock mechanisms are prone to freezing. This sometimes makes it impossible to open the vehicle. Other times, the door opens, but then will not shut because the lock mechanism is frozen. The door just bounces against the frame and does not latch. This has occurred on six separate occasions since late December of 1998. On a few of the occasions I was forced to drive while manually holding the door shut, and then tie the door shut from the inside upon arrival to my destination.
Door lock failed.
| Door Latch problems | |
| Tailgate Latch problems | |
| Latches/locks/linkage problems |