Toyota (TM) has recalled over a quarter million SUVs over an airbag wiring issue that could lead to an injury in the event of a crash if it is not repaired.

The recall affects about 279,000 Toyota Venza SUVs made in the U.S. from 2009 to 2015 that may have fractured wires connected to the airbag system control unit in the driver-side front door.

If the wires become fractured over time, they can cause the airbag warning lamp to illuminate and the sensor in the door to become inoperable. This may prevent the side airbag and curtain shield airbag on the driver’s side from deploying during certain types of collisions, which could increase the risk of an injury.

To remedy the problem, Toyota dealers will inspect the driver-side front door wire harness and, if required, replace it with one that has been improved.

Toyota said that Venza SUV owners will be notified by the middle of June. Questions about the recall can be directed to the Toyota Brand Engagement Center at (800) 331-4331.

The news of the recall comes as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently opened an investigation into Toyota’s 2013 to 2018 RAV4 SUVs for a possible fire risk that could stem from the 12-V battery after receiving 11 complaints and additional data.

The RAV-4 was the best-selling SUV in the U.S. in 2020, with just under 430,400 vehicles sold, USA Today reported. The investigation by the NHTSA affects over 1.86 million models of the Toyota SUV.

Shares of Toyota were trading at $156.80 as of premarket hours, up 58 cents or 0.37%.

Toyota is among the major automakers facing production slowdowns due to the semiconductor shortage
Toyota is among the major automakers facing production slowdowns due to the semiconductor shortage AFP / Philip FONG
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