Toyota has recently announced a safety recall affecting around 145,000 units of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX models due to concerns about the deployment of the driver-side curtain airbag. This issue could potentially lead to an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident. The recall specifically targets vehicles from the 2024 model year, which includes most of the examples produced so far since both models were introduced in 2024.
The driver-side curtain airbag in these vehicles may not deploy correctly in certain crash scenarios, particularly if the driver’s window is open. This not only poses a safety risk to the driver but also renders the affected Grand Highlander and TX models non-compliant with federal safety standards. While Toyota has not specified the exact cause of the airbag deployment problem, engineers are actively working on developing a solution.
Owners of the impacted SUVs can expect to receive notification by mail regarding the recall by mid-August 2024. In the meantime, both Toyota and Lexus have implemented a stop-sale order for the 2024 Grand Highlander and TX models. Production of these vehicles has been halted until the manufacturer addresses the safety issue and ensures that the problem is resolved.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has disclosed one customer complaint related to a non-deploying airbag, which occurred in May 2024. The complaint involved a motorist from Georgia whose side airbags failed to deploy after their Grand Highlander was involved in a T-bone collision. While no similar complaints have been reported for the Lexus TX, the NHTSA is closely monitoring the situation and working with Toyota to address the safety concerns promptly.
It is crucial for affected vehicle owners to take the necessary steps outlined in the recall notification to ensure the safety and well-being of both themselves and their passengers. By acting promptly and following the instructions provided by Toyota and Lexus, drivers can help prevent potential injuries and ensure that their vehicles meet the required safety standards.