Toyota has announced a major recall affecting close to 40,000 Highlander SUVs across Canada due to a potential safety defect that could impact passenger protection during a crash.
According to a recent advisory issued by Transport Canada, a total of 39,897 vehicles are included in the recall. The affected models include the 2021, 2022, and 2023 versions of both the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
The issue stems from a manufacturing flaw in the second-row seatback recliners. Officials noted that these components may not have been produced to the required standards, which could prevent the seatbacks from locking securely into place. In the event of a collision, this defect could allow the seats to shift unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury to passengers.
Authorities have urged owners of the impacted vehicles to avoid using the second-row seats until the necessary repairs have been completed.
Toyota Canada has acknowledged the issue and confirmed that a solution is currently in development. The company stated that once ready, dealerships will replace the faulty return springs in the seat recliner assemblies with improved components at no cost to vehicle owners. Notifications are expected to be sent out to affected customers by early May 2026.
In the meantime, vehicle owners can check whether their SUV is part of the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Toyota Canada’s official recall website.
This latest recall is part of a series of recent safety actions involving Toyota vehicles in Canada. Earlier this year, nearly 20,000 Prius cars were recalled due to a defect that could cause rear doors to open while the vehicle is moving. Additionally, more than 13,000 Toyota trucks and SUVs were recalled late last year over a potential engine stalling issue.
Other automakers are also facing similar challenges. Volkswagen recently issued a recall for certain 2025 and 2026 Jetta models due to an improperly connected transmission ground wire, which could lead to overheating and increase the risk of fire.
Meanwhile, Ford has recalled over 3,000 Explorer SUVs from the 2025 and 2026 model years. The recall affects Platinum models equipped with dynamic bending lights, where a software issue may cause the headlamps to become misaligned when turning. This defect could result in glare for oncoming drivers and raise the likelihood of accidents.
All manufacturers involved have stated that affected owners will be contacted directly and that repairs will be carried out free of charge.
These recalls highlight the ongoing importance of vehicle safety monitoring and timely corrective action within the automotive industry.
