Toyota has announced a recall of over 43,000 Sequoia hybrid SUVs due to a potential safety hazard involving the tow hitch cover.
According to Breitbart, the automaker is concerned that the tow hitch cover could detach while the vehicle is in motion, posing a risk to other drivers on the road.
The recall affects Sequoia hybrid models from 2023 and 2024 that are equipped with a tow hitch cover. Toyota has identified an issue with the attachment structure between the tow hitch cover and the rear bumper, which may result in insufficient retention of the cover. This defect could lead to the cover becoming a road hazard if it falls off while the vehicle is being driven.
Toyota plans to notify affected vehicle owners in October about the recall. The company is advising owners to bring their Sequoia hybrids to a dealership for a free repair. The fix will involve installing an updated replacement cover and modifying the rear bumper to ensure proper attachment.
In their recall report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Toyota provided more details about the issue. The company stated:
The subject vehicles are equipped with a resin tow hitch cover held in place by molded clips to the rear bumper. Due to the design of the attachment structure between the tow hitch cover and bumper, there may be insufficient retention of the cover.
Toyota has emphasized that this recall is specific to certain Sequoia hybrid models. The automaker clarified that other Toyota or Lexus vehicles sold in the United States either have a different tow hitch cover design or are not equipped with a tow hitch cover at all.
This is not the first time Toyota has faced recall issues with its vehicles. In 2022, the company recalled more than 2,000 all-electric SUVs due to concerns about wheels or axles potentially detaching from the vehicle. That recall was described as "embarrassing" and led to a drop in Toyota Motor shares.
The automotive industry as a whole has been grappling with various challenges related to vehicle safety and the transition to electric vehicles. Despite the push for greener transportation options, recent reports suggest that drivers are still showing a preference for gas-powered cars over electric ones.
A study by ISeeCars.com found that electric vehicles are being used 20% less than their gas-powered counterparts. Additionally, another study revealed that electric and hybrid cars are twice as likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents compared to petrol and diesel vehicles, particularly in urban areas.
Toyota's decision to issue this recall demonstrates the company's commitment to customer safety. By proactively addressing the tow hitch cover issue, the automaker aims to prevent potential accidents and ensure the continued reliability of its Sequoia hybrid models.
The recall process will involve collaboration between Toyota, its dealerships, and vehicle owners. Dealership staff will be responsible for installing the updated tow hitch cover and making the necessary modifications to the rear bumper. This approach ensures that the repair work is carried out by trained professionals using the correct parts and procedures.
Toyota's communication plan, which includes notifying owners in October, allows time for the company to prepare its dealership network and ensure an efficient recall process. This proactive approach to addressing safety concerns is crucial for maintaining customer trust and upholding the brand's reputation for quality and reliability.
Toyota's recall of 43,000 Sequoia hybrid SUVs addresses a potential safety issue with the tow hitch cover. The company will provide free repairs at dealerships, including an updated cover and rear bumper modifications. This recall affects 2023 and 2024 models equipped with tow hitch covers. Toyota plans to notify owners in October, demonstrating its commitment to customer safety and vehicle reliability.
