Toyota Recall 2019: Airbag Explosion Risk Forces Recall Of 928,000 Vehicles

Following the massive recall for Takata airbags that affected the automotive industry, Toyota (TM) has issued a second recall for its frontal airbag inflators that may explode, sending sharp metal fragments that could strike the driver or passengers, causing injury or even death.

The recall affects 928,203 Toyota vehicle models, including certain 2010 to 2016 4Runner, 2003 to 2006 Tundra, 2003 to 2013 Corolla, 2009 to 2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004 to 2005 RAV4, 2002 to 2007 Sequoia, 2011 to 2013 Sienna, 2008 to 2012 Scion xB, and 2007 to 2012 Yaris vehicles.

The recall also affects Lexus models, including certain 2008 to 2009 IS-F, 2007 to 2012 ES350, 2010 to 2017 GX460, 2002 to 2010 SC430, 2006 to 2012 IS250 and IS350, and 2010 to 2015 IS250C and IS350C vehicles.

The issue with the airbag stems from the previously replaced airbag inflators that used the same design that was recalled as part of the initial Takata airbag recall. The inflators may explode if the propellant degrades after long-term exposure to high humidity, temperature, and temperature cycling.

To remedy the airbag issue, Toyota dealers will replace the driver or front passenger airbag inflator or the airbag assembly with an alternate inflator at no charge to the vehicle owner.

Toyota said it will notify vehicle owners beginning on Nov. 15.

Questions about the recall can be directed to Toyota customer services at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987.

The recall numbers are J0A, J0B, and J0C for Toyota models and JLI, JLJ, and JLK for Lexus vehicles.

Shares of Toyota stock were up 0.39 percent as of 9:51 a.m. ET on Thursday.