While car recalls are common occurrences, sometimes the issues are minor inconveniences like missing stickers or adjustable headlights. However, this latest recall from Toyota and Lexus raises a serious safety concern.
Approximately 70 vehicles in the US market are being recalled, encompassing both the 2024 Toyota RAV4 and the 2025 Lexus NX models manufactured in September 2024. The reason for the recall is as alarming as it sounds: the potential for both the wheels and brakes to detach from the vehicles.
Toyota states that "certain bolts may not have been properly tightened during manufacturing and can loosen over time, potentially causing the front brake calipers or front wheels to detach." This highlights a critical safety risk. While both the RAV4 and NX utilize separate bolts for the wheels and brakes, the potential for both components to detach is highly concerning.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hasn't yet provided detailed information about the issue. However, Toyota hints at the problem during the repair process. Technicians will be checking the torque on both the hub axle nut and the caliper bracket bolts. These are separate components, making it unusual to experience loose fasteners on both within the same vehicle from the factory.
Typically, the failure of one component wouldn't immediately impact the other. However, there's a possibility that a faulty axle nut could eventually lead to the loosening of the caliper bracket bolts. Until further information from the NHTSA clarifies the issue, definitive answers remain elusive.
Toyota plans to notify owners by February 2025. Currently, there's no information on warranty claims, accidents, or injuries linked to this problem. Owners who are concerned can visit the official websites of Toyota, Lexus, or nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter their vehicle's VIN or license plate number to determine if their car is included in the recall.
This incident serves as a critical reminder to prioritize car maintenance and regularly check for potential issues. In the meantime, owners of the affected RAV4 and NX models should be extra cautious and avoid driving until the necessary repairs are completed.