In a significant development, a class action lawsuit against Toyota over a defect in certain Rav4 models has been settled for an estimated $44 million. The lawsuit pertains to specific 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles, excluding hybrids, which were part of a consumer recall in the United States. It was alleged that these vehicles were equipped with a faulty battery terminal, resulting in electrical power loss, vehicle stalling, and in some cases, fire in the engine compartment. While Toyota denied these allegations, the company agreed to a settlement to avoid a trial. The settlement offers several benefits to customers, including partial reimbursement for replacing a Group 26R battery with a Group 35 battery, reimbursement for unreimbursed repairs or parts replacements of the battery hold-down assembly, and related rental/towing expenses. Compensation is also provided for damages to the vehicle or property caused by a thermal event related to the alleged defect. To qualify for a payout, claimants must own or have owned a 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicle, excluding hybrids, that was part of Recall 23V-734. Claims can be submitted on the official settlement website, with deadlines dependent on the nature of the claim.