Toyota Canada Announces Major Safety Recall for Rear Door Malfunction
Toyota Motor Corporation has initiated a significant safety recall affecting nearly 20,000 vehicles across Canada. The recall addresses a critical defect that could cause the rear doors to open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, creating a severe hazard for occupants and other road users.
Details of the Safety Defect and Affected Models
The recall stems from a manufacturing issue involving the rear door latch mechanisms. According to Toyota, a specific component may fail to engage properly, allowing the doors to unlatch during operation. This malfunction could occur without warning, even at highway speeds, potentially leading to passengers falling out or objects ejecting from the vehicle.
While Toyota has not publicly disclosed the exact models involved in this Canadian recall, similar issues in other markets have affected popular SUVs and minivans. The company is expected to notify registered owners directly with instructions for remediation.
Safety Protocol and Recommended Actions
Toyota Canada advises owners of potentially affected vehicles to take immediate precautions:
- Refrain from transporting passengers in the rear seats until the vehicle has been inspected
- Ensure all doors are properly closed and latched before driving
- Monitor for any unusual sounds or behavior from door mechanisms
- Contact a local Toyota dealership to schedule a free inspection and repair
The repair procedure typically involves replacing or adjusting the faulty latch components at no cost to vehicle owners. Toyota has stated that the fix should take approximately one to two hours at authorized service centers.
Regulatory Context and Consumer Protection
This recall follows standard protocols established by Transport Canada, which mandates automakers to address safety defects promptly. Canadian vehicle recall notices are typically coordinated between manufacturers and federal regulators to ensure public safety.
Vehicle owners can verify whether their Toyota is included in this recall by:
- Visiting the Toyota Canada website and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Contacting Toyota Customer Experience at 1-888-TOYOTA-8
- Checking the Transport Canada recall database online
This recall represents one of several automotive safety actions announced in Canada recently, highlighting ongoing industry efforts to address potential hazards before they result in accidents or injuries.
