Toyota and Lexus are recalling 40,922 sedans and crossovers due to potentially compromised seat belts that might not effectively restrain passengers in the event of a collision, as disclosed by the NHTSA on Monday.
The NHTSA reported that improper tooling used during the hit-knife cutting process at a certain production site may have harmed the second-row center seat belts in the affected vehicles. This damage could hinder the seat belt’s proper functioning, thus raising the risk of injury to occupants.
The recall encompasses the following models from Toyota and its luxury brand, Lexus:
Toyota informed the NHTSA that the problem was identified when a “melt mark” was observed on a second-row center seat belt during a routine parts inspection at a seat supplier’s facility. The automaker did not indicate whether it had received reports of any injuries or fatalities associated with this issue.
The corrective action involves inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the second-row center seat-belt assembly. This service will be carried out by Toyota and Lexus dealers at no cost to owners. Additionally, the companies will reimburse customers who have previously paid for related repairs themselves.
Toyota plans to inform owners via mail starting March 24. Owners can also reach out to the automaker’s customer service at 1-800-331-4331 or visit Toyota’s recall website. The company has assigned two reference numbers for this recall: 25TA03 and 25LA03.
This recall comes on the heels of another involving recent Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup trucks. Toyota is recalling 106,061 of those vehicles due to potential damage to rear brake hoses, which could lead to leaks during off-road use.
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