Sunita Somvanshi
Toyota Australia has recalled 524 units of its new-generation Land Cruiser Prado SUVs built between June 24 and October 3, 2024. The recall centers on vehicles fitted with the optional Electric Brake Controller, where a critical airbag safety issue has been identified.
The Problem: Incorrectly Installed Airbags
According to Toyota’s official recall notice, the issue stems from “an error in the fitting instructions for the optional accessory Electric Brake Controller.” During installation of this accessory, technicians must remove the Lower Driver’s Airbag Assembly, but the instructions provided incorrect torque specifications for reinstalling it.
This error means the airbag assembly may have been reinstalled with improper bolt tension, potentially causing the bolts to loosen over time. In a collision, the lower driver’s airbag might not deploy properly, “increasing the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants,” Toyota stated.
Warning Signs
Toyota advises that affected owners might notice “a rattle from the driver’s knee airbag area” if the airbag assembly was incorrectly reinstalled. However, the company advises all owners of affected vehicles to arrange for an inspection regardless of whether this symptom has manifested.
The Fix
Toyota dealers will inspect affected vehicles to determine if the Electric Brake Controller has been installed. If present, technicians will check the airbag assembly installation and fix any issues.
The repair is being offered at no cost to owners and will take approximately one hour to complete, though Toyota notes that “depending on the Dealer’s work schedule, owners may be required to make the vehicle available for a longer period of time.”
Similar Posts
Broader Impact
The recall isn’t limited to the Prado. Related reports indicate that Lexus GX models, which share components with the Prado, have also been recalled in Australia for the same issue, bringing the total recall to 552 vehicles.
Toyota is contacting affected owners directly. Owners can also verify if their vehicle is affected by contacting their Toyota dealer or calling the Toyota Recall Campaign Helpline at 1800 987 366 (Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 7:00pm AEDT).
Vehicle Identification
The recall affects 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado vehicles with the model code GDJ251R. Toyota has published a full list of the affected Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) which owners can access through the recall notice.
How do I know if my Toyota Prado is affected by this recall?
The recall affects 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado vehicles with model code GDJ251R produced between June 24 and October 3, 2024, and fitted with the optional Electric Brake Controller. Toyota is contacting affected owners directly. You can also check if your vehicle is affected by contacting your Toyota dealer or calling the Toyota Recall Campaign Helpline at 1800 987 366. You’ll need your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
What exactly is the safety risk with these vehicles?
Due to incorrect torque specifications in the fitting instructions for the Electric Brake Controller, the Lower Driver’s Airbag Assembly may have been reinstalled improperly. This could cause the bolts to loosen, preventing the airbag from deploying as designed in a collision, which could increase the risk of injury or death.
How will I know if my vehicle has this problem before getting it checked?
Toyota states that if the Lower Driver’s Airbag Assembly retaining bolts were not reinstalled correctly, you might hear a rattle from the driver’s knee airbag area. However, Toyota advises all owners of affected vehicles to arrange for an inspection regardless of whether this symptom is present.
How long will the repair take and will it cost me anything?
Toyota dealers will perform the inspection and repair free of charge. The repair process will take approximately one hour, though depending on the dealer’s schedule, you may need to leave your vehicle for a longer period of time.
Can I still drive my vehicle until it’s repaired?
Yes, Toyota confirms you can continue to drive your vehicle. However, they request that owners contact their Toyota dealership to arrange recall completion as a priority.
Is this recall only affecting vehicles in Australia?
Based on the information provided, the recall has been issued in Australia for Toyota Land Cruiser Prado vehicles and Lexus GX vehicles, with a total of 552 vehicles affected. The recall notices do not specify if this is a global recall or limited to the Australian market.
