Toyota Motor LLC, the official representative of Toyota in the Russian market, has announced a safety recall affecting Avensis cars. The recall commenced on February 28 and applies to a specific batch of vehicles from the model year range involved. In total, 22,712 Avensis units produced between April 2003 and May 2007 are included in this campaign. The key concern driving the recall centers on the driver’s airbag system and its squib cartridge, which can degrade over time when exposed to elevated ambient temperatures and humidity. This degradation can compromise the airbag deployment in a crash, presenting a potential risk to the driver and passengers in affected vehicles.
According to Rosstandart, the state consumer rights and safety regulator, the issue lies with the density and integrity of the squib’s reactive material. Over time, heat and moisture exposure can alter the cartridge substance, diminishing its effectiveness. If an airbag were required to deploy during an accident and the squib substance had degraded, the gas generator housing could be damaged. In the worst scenario, fragments from the gas generator might pierce the airbag or intrusion into the passenger compartment could occur, potentially causing serious injuries to those inside the car.
For owners of vehicles under recall, all required service work is offered free of charge. Toyota’s obligation to safety is clear, and the company is coordinating with regulatory authorities to ensure that affected customers receive timely inspections and any necessary replacements or repairs at no out-of-pocket cost.
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This recall underscores the importance of adhering to manufacturer notices and the role of local safety authorities in verifying vehicle safety within the region. Prospective owners and current drivers can contact their local Toyota service centers for guidance on eligibility, repair scheduling, and the expected duration of service while the vehicle is in the shop. Regular checks on airbag warning indicators and service bulletins help ensure safety standards are maintained across the fleet in both Russia and markets beyond, including North America where similar safety practices are emphasized by automotive regulators and manufacturers.