Toyota Motor Corp. has announced a recall of 135,305 units of its Prius hybrid cars in Japan, citing concerns over the potential risk of doors opening while driving.
The decision to recall the vehicles comes after the automaker received reports of three incidents related to a glitch in the rear door handle mechanism. However, Toyota clarified that no accidents stemming from this issue have been confirmed to date. The recall filing was submitted to Japan’s transport ministry on Wednesday.
The affected models are those produced between November 2022 and April 2024, Toyota stated. As a precautionary measure, the company will suspend production and cease accepting orders from dealerships until the problem is rectified.
According to the ministry, the root cause of the problem lies in insufficient waterproofing, which could lead to the short-circuiting of electronic components within the doors if exposed to water. This, in turn, may trigger the doors to open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, posing a potential safety hazard.
Toyota’s proactive approach to addressing the issue underscores its commitment to prioritizing customer safety and maintaining the integrity of its products. The decision to recall the affected Prius hybrid cars reflects the company’s dedication to promptly addressing any potential risks identified in its vehicles.
In response to the recall, Toyota has assured Prius owners that it will swiftly implement necessary measures to address the door handle glitch and ensure the safety of drivers and passengers. Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by the company, and arrangements will be made to rectify the issue free of charge at authorized service centers.
While the recall is limited to Japan, Toyota has a robust global customer support network in place to address similar concerns in other markets where the Prius hybrid is sold. The company remains committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and safety across its entire product lineup.
Customers with concerns or inquiries regarding the recall are encouraged to contact Toyota’s customer service hotline or visit their nearest authorized dealership for assistance. Additionally, Toyota has urged Prius owners to refrain from using the rear doors until the necessary repairs have been carried out to mitigate any potential risks associated with the door handle glitch.
Toyota’s swift action to address the issue underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and proactive measures to ensure the safety and reliability of vehicles on the road. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, manufacturers must remain vigilant in identifying and addressing potential safety concerns to uphold consumer trust and confidence in their products.
