Toyota recalls 550,007 vehicles in US over seat-back defect, NHTSA says Toyota Motor Corp is recalling 550,007 vehicles in the United States due to a potential defect in the seat-back mechanism. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recall, citing the risk of injury if the second-row seat backs fail to lock properly during adjustment. The affected models include certain 2021-2024 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The defect involves the seat-back recliner assemblies, where the return springs may not function correctly. This could prevent the seat backs from securing in place, increasing the likelihood of injury in the event of a collision. Toyota has stated that dealers will replace the faulty return springs at no cost to vehicle owners. The recall is part of ongoing efforts to address safety concerns related to vehicle design and manufacturing. The NHTSA emphasized that the issue stems from a potential failure in the seat-back locking mechanism, which is critical for occupant safety. While the exact cause of the defect has not been disclosed, the recall underscores the importance of regular safety inspections and manufacturer accountability. Toyota has not provided further details on the scope of the issue or the number of vehicles affected beyond the 550,007 figure. Consumers are advised to contact their local dealers to schedule a free repair. The recall highlights the automotive industry’s commitment to addressing safety risks, even when they arise from complex mechanical systems. As part of the process, Toyota will work with NHTSA to ensure all affected vehicles are repaired promptly. This incident reflects broader challenges in vehicle safety, particularly in older models where design flaws may not become apparent until widespread use.#nhtsa #highlander #highlander_hybrid #toyota_motor_corp #seat_back
Toyota recalls 550,000 vehicles over seat-back safety issue Toyota is recalling 550,007 vehicles due to a defect in the second-row seat-back locking mechanism, according to federal regulators. The affected models include 420,771 Highlander SUVs and 129,236 Highlander Hybrid vehicles from model years 2021 through 2024. The issue involves seat backs that may fail to lock into position during adjustment, potentially compromising occupant safety in the event of a crash at high speeds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated that seat backs not properly secured could fail to restrain passengers, increasing injury risks. Toyota dealers will replace the return springs in recliner assemblies with improved components at no cost to owners. Affected vehicle owners will receive notification letters expected to be mailed in April, prompting them to schedule repairs. This recall follows a separate incident in February when Toyota recalled approximately 141,000 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles due to rear doors that could unexpectedly open while the vehicle was in motion. The company has not yet issued additional comments on the latest recall, though Fox Business contacted Toyota for clarification. The defect highlights ongoing safety concerns in automotive manufacturing, with regulators emphasizing the importance of addressing mechanical failures that could endanger drivers and passengers. Toyota’s recall underscores the need for rigorous quality control in vehicle design and production processes.#toyota #nhtsa #national_highway_traffic_safety_administration #highlander_hybrid #highlander_suv
Toyota Recall Includes Highlander, Highlander Hybrid Models More than 550,000 Toyota vehicles are being recalled due to a defect in the second-row seat backs that could compromise occupant safety during collisions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall notice on March 5, highlighting that the seat backs may fail to lock into position during adjustment. This issue could prevent passengers from being properly restrained in high-speed crashes, increasing the risk of injury. The affected models include all 2021-2024 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The recall is assigned numbers 26TB06 and 26TA06. Toyota has stated that dealers will replace the faulty return springs in the recliner assemblies free of charge. Owners are advised to contact their local dealership once notified. NHTSA recommends that affected vehicle owners wait for notification letters, which will be sent out in April. Alternatively, customers can reach Toyota’s customer service line at 1-800-331-4331 for assistance. The recall underscores the importance of addressing mechanical flaws that could impact safety, even if the defect is not immediately apparent under normal conditions. Toyota’s recall aligns with broader industry efforts to address potential safety risks in vehicle design. While the defect in question is specific to seat back mechanisms, it highlights the ongoing need for manufacturers to monitor and rectify issues that could affect occupant protection. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about recall notices and take prompt action to ensure their vehicles are safe and compliant.#toyota #nhtsa #national_highway_traffic_safety_administration #highlander #highlander_hybrid
