Massive Recall: Toyota and Lexus Recall Vehicles Due to Airbag Issue
Toyota has announced a recall affecting approximately one million Toyota and Lexus vehicles from the 2020 and 2021 model years. The reason behind this massive recall is a concerning issue with the passenger airbags. These airbags may not deploy correctly during a crash due to a faulty sensor.
Affected Vehicle Models
The list of affected vehicles is extensive and spans various models and years. Owners of the following vehicles should be aware of the recall:
- Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid SUVs, model years 2020 and 2021
- Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid sedans, model years 2020 to 2022
- Toyota Avalon and Avalon Hybrid sedans, model years 2020 and 2021
- Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid SUVs model years 2020 and 2021
- Toyota Corolla sedans and hatchbacks, model years 2020 and 2021
- 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid minivans
- Lexus RX350 and RX450h SUVs, model years 2020 and 2021
- Lexus ES300h hybrid sedans, model years 2020 to 2022
- 2021 Lexus ES250 sedans
- Lexus ES350 sedans, model years 2020 and 2021
Recall Procedure
Toyota is taking this recall seriously and has initiated a process to rectify the issue promptly. Toyota dealerships will conduct thorough inspections of the impacted vehicles, and should the need arise, they will replace the defective airbag sensors free of charge.
However, as of now, Toyota has chosen not to disclose whether any accidents or injuries have occurred due to this issue or how the problem was initially identified. This lack of information may leave some owners concerned about their potential risks.
Understanding the Airbag Issue
The heart of the issue lies in a malfunctioning occupant weight sensor known as the Occupant Classification System (OCS). This sophisticated system is designed to enhance passenger safety within a vehicle. Its primary function is determining the presence and weight of passengers seated in the front passenger seat. By doing so, it can intelligently control the airbag’s deployment during a crash, ensuring that it deploys with the right force and timing to maximize protection while minimizing the risk of injury.
However, a malfunction within the OCS has raised concerns in this particular case. When this sensor encounters a short circuit, it disrupts its ability to accurately detect and assess the presence and weight of a passenger. This disruption can have serious consequences, especially during specific crash scenarios. As a result, the airbag may not deploy as intended, and this deviation from the ideal deployment scenario poses a significant safety risk.
Risk of Injuries
The failure of the airbag to deploy correctly in such circumstances can lead to a range of potential issues. Injuries that might otherwise have been minimized or prevented with a properly functioning airbag can become more severe due to this malfunction. Passengers may experience more extensive trauma, including brain injuries, chest injuries, and whiplash, among others. Additionally, the increased risk of injuries can extend to children or smaller individuals who rely on the OCS to control airbag deployment to suit their body size and position.
How to Get Assistance
For owners of the affected vehicles, Toyota has outlined a plan to address the issue. Starting in February 2024, Toyota will notify owners of recalled vehicles about the situation. If you own one of these affected vehicles and have questions or concerns, you can contact Toyota at 800-331-4331 or Lexus at 800-255-3987. Their customer service teams will be ready to assist you.
You can also visit NHTSA’s website to ensure your vehicle is safe and has no open recalls. By entering your car’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), you can quickly check if any open recalls need your attention. If no recalls appear, it means your vehicle has no open recalls.
Northern California Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Toyota Recall Lawyer. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims in California. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. If you have been hurt in an accident, call us at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. We are here to advocate for your rights and provide the legal support you need during this challenging time. Your recovery is our priority, and we are ready to stand by your side every step of the way.
Watch the following video to learn how we can help you and your family with your legal needs.
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