Toyota has announced a significant recall of 43,395 vehicles in the United States. The affected models include the 2023-2024 Sequoia Hybrid. The automaker announced the recall for the identified defect on the tow hitch cover that is likely to become dangerous while on the wheel. Here is a detailed outlook on the recall, the models, and what this means for the respective owners of the cars.
Information regarding the recall
The principal issue of concern in the subject vehicles is the tow hitch cover that is secured to the rear bumper with molded clips. The problem is that Toyota has determined this attachment may not be sufficiently robust to adequately retain the cover and could detach while driving the vehicle. This is a serious road hazard defect, as a loose hitch cover may drop onto and obstruct the path of other traffic, thus creating a high risk of accident involvement.
Impacted units will be proactively retrieved by Toyota in its commitment to the safety of its customers. The affected units will have its owners notified by the end of October 2024. An invitation in the notification will be done to encourage the owners to take the vehicle to the nearest dealership for a free service by technicians, which will replace the problematic tow hitch cover and modify the rear bumper securing.
Impacted models
The recall is specifically for the following vehicles:
- 2023-2024 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid
The recall comes in light of Toyota’s commitment to the safety of their vehicles and customer satisfaction levels. The owners of these Sequoia models will have to be very attentive as official notification via a letter is expected; further instructions can be garnered from it.
Previous recalls and safety concerns
Actually, this is not the first time it has happened to Toyota. Early this year, 2024, the car maker issued multiple recalls involving hundreds of thousands of vehicles with various forms of safety concerns. The more serious ones involved:
- February 2024: Toyota recalled almost 280,000 vehicles, including Tundra and Lexus LX600, due to transmission problems that may cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly while in neutral position.
- June 2024: Over 100,000 Tundra and Lexus vehicles were recalled due to possible contamination of the engine from manufacturing debris that can cause engine failure.
These recalls signify that safety evaluations never get old and that there is a need for timely attention by manufacturers on defects to keep consumers out of harm’s way.
What to do if you’re an affected owner
The owners of the recalled 2023-2024 Sequoia Hybrid are encouraged to do the following:
- Watch out for recall notices: Look out for an official recall notification letter from Toyota; it would include the details of the recall and what further action is expected.
- Contact local dealerships: Contact a local Toyota dealership immediately after the notification letter and arrange for an appointment to get its replacement with a new tow hitch cover and modify the rear bumper.
- Recall status check: Owners who are unsure whether their vehicle is involved in this recall, should check their status on NHTSA’s website by VIN.
- Stay informed: Contact the Toyota official website or the NHTSA site for all recall and safety info updates.
The recall of over 43,000 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid vehicles was an indication of the safety of vehicles and the responsibility of the manufacturer in being proactive over potential risks.
