In a recent development, Toyota has announced a second recall for approximately 12,575 Corolla Cross models in the United States, adding to the 110,000 vehicles recalled in late May last year due to concerns related to the front passenger airbag. The latest recall stems from a realization that a flaw in the inspection process may have resulted in some vehicles not being correctly identified for the necessary fix.
Toyota Motor North America issued a notice acknowledging the problem with the inspection process specified by the automaker, indicating that certain vehicles, manufactured between September 7, 2021, and May 4, 2023, may require a remedy. Toyota estimates that around 1.77% of the initially recalled 109,806 vehicles could potentially have the identified fault.
Owners of the affected 2022-2023 Corolla Cross models will receive notifications via first-class mail, instructing them to take their vehicles to a dealership for inspection. If deemed necessary, the dealer will replace the instrument panel at no cost to the owner.
Toyota clarifies that the Corolla Cross features a dashboard panel design with a perforation designed to open when the front passenger airbag deploys. However, a deviation in the instrument panel milling process may have occurred, leading to the possibility that the panel was manufactured without the required preformation. Such a scenario could impact the deployment of the airbag, elevating the risk of injury to the front passenger.
This marks the second recall affecting the Corolla Cross within the past 12 months. In July of the previous year, the model was part of a broader recall involving various Toyota and Lexus models. The recall was prompted by concerns about poor welding in the flexible flat cable, which had the potential to cause the driver-side airbag to disconnect, emphasizing the ongoing commitment of automakers to address and rectify safety issues promptly.