Toyota recall 1.12 million cars potential air bag issue check list models

Toyota recalls 1.12 million vehicles worldwide over air bag issue. 1 million vehicles in the US affected. Owners to be notified in February.

Toyota Motor has announced a massive recall of 1.12 million vehicles worldwide due to a potential air bag issue. The recall, which covers 2020 through 2022 model year vehicles, includes various popular models such as Avalon, Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Lexus ES250, ES300H, ES350, RX350 Highlander, and Sienna Hybrid vehicles. The issue stems from a short circuit in a sensor, which could cause air bags not to deploy as designed.

In the United States alone, 1 million vehicles are affected by the recall. The problem lies with the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensors, which are designed to ensure that air bags do not deploy if a small adult or child is sitting in the front seat. This potential malfunction could have serious safety implications.

To address the issue, Toyota dealers will be inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the sensors. The automaker plans to begin notifying owners about the recall in February. This is not the first time Toyota has had to address issues with its air bag sensors. In July 2022, the company issued a recall for 3,500 RAV4 vehicles in the United States due to potential interference between internal parts that could cause the OCS sensor to incorrectly detect the occupant.

The importance of functioning air bags cannot be overstated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, frontal air bags have saved more than 50,000 lives in the United States over the past 30 years. The introduction of the new sensors is a response to the previous generation of air bags, which deployed the same way for all drivers and passengers, leading to injuries and, in rare cases, even death for children, small adults, and unbelted passengers who were too close to the air bag as it deployed.

This recall serves as a reminder of the critical role that safety features play in the automotive industry. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for manufacturers to prioritize the safety of their vehicles and address any potential issues promptly. Customers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and take necessary action to ensure their safety on the road.