Toyota Highlander Recalls: 550,000 Vehicles Affected by Seat Defect
Toyota is recalling approximately 550,000 Highlander vehicles due to a defect in the second-row seats that may not fully lock after adjustment. This recall affects certain 2021-2024 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models, raising concerns about passenger safety in the event of a crash.
The defect involves recliner assemblies in the second-row seats, which may fail to secure properly. According to Toyota’s defect report, “A seat back that has not been secured in a locked position may fail to properly restrain occupants, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash at higher speeds.” This issue was discovered during a routine quality inspection at the factory in October 2023.
The recall specifically affects 420,771 standard Highlanders and 129,236 Highlander Hybrids. Toyota estimates that about 1 percent of the affected vehicles actually have the issue, which was traced back to an unannounced design change by a supplier in April 2021. During testing, five out of 343 vehicles field tested exhibited the failure.
Owner notification letters are scheduled to begin mailing in early May 2026. In the meantime, Toyota has emphasized that the recall is precautionary and urged owners to schedule the free repair promptly once notifications arrive. Dealers will replace the return springs in the recliner assemblies free of charge.
As of now, no crashes, injuries, or fatalities have been reported in connection with this specific defect. However, the potential for increased risk in the event of an accident has prompted the company to take swift action to address the issue.
Customers with questions regarding the recall can contact Toyota’s Brand Engagement Center at 1-800-331-4331. The company is committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers, particularly as the Highlander has long been a bestseller for families seeking reliability, space, and efficiency.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the defect’s impact on vehicle performance and safety. Observers expect that further investigations may provide additional insights into the issue as the recall process unfolds.