Carry Handle, Shell, Base Related Problems of the 2019 Toyota RAV4

Table 1 shows one common carry handle, shell, base related problems of the 2019 Toyota RAV4.

Table 1. Carry Handle, Shell, Base related problems of Toyota RAV4

Problem Category Number of Problems
Carry Handle, Shell, Base problems
2

Carry Handle, Shell, Base problem #1

I am reporting a serious concern and safety issue regarding the slimfit3 lx car seat. We purchased it for a [xxx] old [xxx] male. After adjusting the head rest to the proper height so that the harness straps were slightly below his shoulder, we placed him in the seat and his head was unnaturally pushed forward and down so that his chin was pushed into his chest. This was caused by the headrest sitting too far forward of the back padding so there was no way for him to keep his head in natural alignment with his back. The contributing factor is the minimal back padding and its inset into the car seat. There should be more padding to move the back forward or the headrest should be retracted into the seat more. We immediately returned the two car seats we purchased because of this and went with a different manufacturer. Not only is this an ergonomic/comfort issue, but it could introduce airway obstructing breathing issues if the child fell asleep. It is an extremely unnatural position. Also, I would be concerned about long term damage to a child's posture after repeated use. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Carry Handle, Shell, Base problem #2

Maxi-cosi emme 360… major safety concern! when in the locked position with confirmed “locked” emblem visible, the car seat can easily be knocked loose and rotated. There are of course several warning labels on the side that say do not attempt to rotate the seat while in the locked position without using the appropriate release handle. The amount of light force I am apply is extremely minimal and nothing compared to the torsion that will be exerted to the car seat during a serious collision. We have already contacted the manufacturer directly, this is now the second car seat we have received with the same issue. We have been on the phone with tech support. They have no idea what’s happening and cannot resolve the issue. Again, this is a very serious safety concern with the car seat.


Carry Handle, Shell, Base related problems in other Toyota RAV4 model year vehicles:



RAV4 Service Bulletins
RAV4 Safety Recalls
RAV4 Defect Investigations