I would try to replace the seat belt buckle instead of the ECU. The cost is around $40. I seen a thread with pictures replacing the seat belt buckle.

 

Just replace the seat belt buckle and ignor the ECU mentioned. The seat belt buckle cost is less than a ECU and it is rare for the ECU to fail.

I actually tried replacing the seat belt buckle ($30) and the lights were still on. Any other leads I should explore? Thank you!

 

I would try a piece of black tape. Works for all warning light.

 

My first thought for this would be to inspect the harness under the seat and look for any damage/corrosion to the connector or harness. Also check the harness/connector for the airbag module which I think is in the centre console area (hope someone can confirm this)

 

I was under the impression that the Passive Restraint System was warrantied for the life of the vehicle. At least when I took my '03 Odyssey to Honda with a seat belt error light on they fixed it for free even with 200,000 miles on the van.

 

I think on Toyota it's just 60-month/ 60,000-mile. Maybe the Honda folks were just nice to you? Or you have their shop supplemental warranty because you bought it there?

Toyota Warranty Overview (2024)

Learn more about what Toyota warranties cover, what they don’t cover, when they’ll expire, and how to keep yourself covered for as long as possible.

www.carchex.com

 

Just an update, the sensor under the seat fixed the problem! I found it for $24 on eBay. It’s called computer occupant detection. Part number 89952-35011. Didn’t even have to take the seat out of the car, just replaced the old sensor by pulling it out, and then plugged the two switches into the new sensor.

 

I’m very glad to hear that you fixed it! And happy that my suggestion worked! Even though I’ve had my training on airbag handling, I still don’t like working with those things. $24 is a lot better than I thought it might have been. Once the report mentions Occupant Detection, that usually means the weight sensor.


2012 RAV4 Base FWD.
Upgraded to large front brakes and 3rd row rear springs.

 

That is good news

 

Good news. Price for that sensor here in Canada cost $398 (online discounted) and list for $419. Good thing buying a used one on Ebay is much cheaper.
So anyone taking the car to dealer would pay a hefty price if they want that replaced with a dealer part.

 

As always we get totally screwed on parts prices, although this is the worst disparity I’ve yet seen.


2012 RAV4 Base FWD.
Upgraded to large front brakes and 3rd row rear springs.

 

I thought I’d post a pic of what the sensor looked like after it was pulled it out/replaced.

 

Did you need to do anything else to remove the lights? Was changing the sensor enough? Can you share a link to the sensor you bought? Are these exclusive from RAV4 or can be found on other Toyota models? Thanks in advance. I have the exact same symptoms you did.

 

That looks like a bad sensor indeed

 

Kinda looks like somethin got spilled on it ??

 

Is that grease or corrosion on the sensor? If it's corrosion then how did it get wet?