2022-2024 RAV4 "Steering Power Low" Potential Problem

For those who own a 2022-2024 RAV4 (non-hybrid), there's a chance your car's engine will stall after driving in the rain for an extended period of time.

Here is what Toyota is currently investigating (first issued on 9/10/24): https://dot.report/bulletins/MC-11010061-0001.pdf

Based on the linked document, water is somehow seeping into the mass air flow sensor, leading to false readings. I'm not a mechanic, so correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the MAF sensor measures the amount of air flowing into the intake and as a result the car will send a certain amount of fuel to the engine to maintain an ideal air-fuel ratio. Because of water intrusion, it throws everything off and may lead to stalling in the rain, especially when coming to a stop or after already shifting to park and sitting for a while.

My 2022 RAV4 stalled in stop-and-go traffic (back in May 2023) after driving in the rain for about 25 minutes. It wouldn't start for another 5-7 minutes or so. In that time, I almost got hit twice after the traffic started clearing up. A solution needs to come soon regarding this. Ever since the document was released in Sep. 2024, I haven't seen any new info since then.

I'm bringing it to the dealer on May 9th to see what they think or how they'll troubleshoot the issue. I'm already bringing it in that day to deal with water getting into both rear doors due to clogged drain holes, so I'll see what happens.