Toyota Recalls 1.9 Million RAV4 SUVs Over Fire Risk, Advises Outdoor Parking

Toyota has announced a recall of 1.9 million RAV4 SUVs in the U.S. due to potential engine fires caused by battery problems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received reports of fires, loss of electrical power, and engine stalling related to the 12-volt batteries in the vehicles. Despite four reports of "thermal events" occurring with the ignition off, Toyota is not advising owners to park their vehicles outdoors. Instead, the company is urging owners to have their vehicles inspected and repaired at a dealer to ensure proper installation of replacement batteries and tight holding clamps. Toyota is currently working on a fix and plans to notify owners by late December.