Toyota Recalls 1 Million Vehicles Over Airbag Sensor Glitch
In response to a potential safety concern, Toyota has issued a recall affecting approximately 1 million cars and SUVs in the United States. The recall is prompted by a defect that could lead to the failure of the passenger airbag to deploy in the event of a crash.
The recall encompasses 15 different models from the 2020 and 2021 model years, spanning both Toyota and Lexus brands. Among the affected models are popular vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Rav4, and Sienna, as well as the Lexus RX350 and ES350 from Toyota’s luxury vehicle line.
The specific issue revolves around the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, responsible for detecting the presence of an individual in the front passenger seat. In certain instances, the sensor may experience a short circuit, a problem linked to improper manufacturing in some vehicles.
The OCS sensor plays a crucial role in determining the weight of the front seat passenger, providing an indication of whether the occupant is an adult or child. In scenarios where a child is identified, the airbag might not deploy during a crash to prevent potential harm to a smaller individual due to the force of the airbag.
According to Toyota’s announcement, a short circuit in the OCS sensor could result in the airbag failing to deploy when necessary. The automaker, however, has not disclosed whether any injuries related to this issue have been reported.
Affected vehicle owners will receive notifications from Toyota by mid-February 2024, outlining the necessary steps for resolution. Toyota and Lexus dealerships will conduct inspections of the OCS sensor, and if required, replace the sensor at no cost to the vehicle owner. This proactive recall underscores Toyota’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its customers.
