Photo: KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI / AFP / Getty Images
Toyota is recalling over 550,000 vehicles due to a defect in the seat-back locking mechanism, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash. The recall affects 420,771 Highlander and 129,236 Highlander Hybrid models from 2021 to 2024. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the second-row seat backs in these vehicles may fail to lock during adjustment, potentially compromising occupant safety.
The recall, identified by numbers 26TB06 and 26TA06, requires Toyota dealers to replace the return springs in the seat-back recliner assemblies at no cost to the owners. Notification letters will be sent to affected vehicle owners in April. Toyota has advised owners to contact their dealers for the free repair or reach out to Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331 for more information.
This recall follows a recent recall of approximately 141,000 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles due to a separate issue with rear doors unexpectedly opening while driving. For more details, see the full notice on the NHTSA website.