Toyota Recalls 1 Million Cars For Airbag Glitch
Discover the latest on Toyota recalls 1 million cars for airbag glitch, impacting a range of models due to a defect in the Occupant Classification System sensor. Learn more about the affected vehicles and Toyota's response.
Author:Rhyley CarneyReviewer:Paula M. GrahamDec 22, 202313K Shares203.6K Views
One of the world's leading automakers, Toyota recalls 1 million cars for airbag glitch. They announced a significant recall affecting approximately 1 million cars and SUVs in the United States. This recall is due to a potential defect that might prevent the passenger airbag from deploying in a crash. The recall includes a variety of 2020 and 2021 model year vehicles from both Toyota and its luxury brand, Lexus.
The Defect And Affected Models
The root of the issue lies in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, crucial for detecting the presence of a person in the front passenger seat. In certain 2020 and 2021 models, including the Toyota Camry, Rav4, Sienna, and the Lexus RX350 and ES350, this sensor might short circuit due to improper manufacturing. The OCS sensor's primary function is to gauge the passenger's weight to determine whether it's an adult or a child, adjusting airbag deployment accordingly. A malfunction in this system could lead to the airbag not deploying in situations where it is necessary.
A Toyota spokesperson, addressing this concern, stated, "A short circuit in the OCS sensor could cause the airbag to fail to deploy in incidents when it should." However, they declined to comment on any injuries related to this issue.
Recall Procedure And Owner Notification
Toyota plans to notify owners of the affected vehicles by mid-February 2024. Vehicle owners will be instructed to bring their cars to a Toyota or Lexus dealer, where the service department will inspect and, if necessary, replace the OCS sensor free of charge.
In their announcement, Toyota elaborated on the recall, "Toyota is recalling roughly 1 million cars in the U.S. because the front passenger airbags may not deploy properly in a crash, posing additional risk of injury to riders."
The recall encompasses various models, including:
- Toyota - Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Sienna Hybrid
- Lexus -ES250, ES300H, ES350, RX350, RX450H
Next Steps For Vehicle Owners
Toyota and Lexus dealerships are prepared to inspect and replace the OCS sensors at no cost. Owners can check if their vehicle is part of this recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate information on Toyota's or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) official recall websites.
For further assistance, Toyota has provided contact details for its Brand Engagement Center, as well as for Lexus.
Toyota's Recent Recall History
This recall is part of a series of recent safety measures taken by Toyota. In late 2023, the company recalled 1.9 million RAV4 SUVs due to a risk of battery displacement that could lead to fires. Additionally, approximately 751,000 Toyota Highlander SUVs were recalled to address a problem with the tabs securing the front lower bumper covers.
In August, about 168,000 Toyota Tundra and Tundra Hybrid vehicles were recalled due to a potential fuel leak caused by a plastic fuel tube rubbing against a brake line.
Conclusion
These recalls highlight Toyota's commitment to customer safety and the ongoing challenges automakers face in ensuring the reliability and safety of their vehicles in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Vehicle owners affected by this latest recall are encouraged to take prompt action to ensure their safety and the proper functioning of their vehicles' safety systems.
Rhyley Carney
Author
Paula M. Graham
Reviewer
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