According to Reuters, Toyota announced on March 1st that it is recalling approximately 381,000 trucks in the United States due to axle issues that could increase the risk of crashes.
Based on a document submitted by Toyota to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States, the recall involves the 2022 and 2023 model years of the Tacoma. The specific reason cited is that welding debris left at the end of the rear axle assembly during production could cause certain fastening nuts to loosen over time and eventually detach, potentially leading to engine stalling while driving and posing a safety hazard.
Reports state that Toyota dealerships will inspect the rear axle assembly and tighten the axle fixing nuts. If necessary, damaged axle components may be repaired or replaced. Toyota claims that it has not received any reports of warranty claims or on-site reports of related incidents.
Last October, Toyota discovered an issue involving axle housings, leading to an investigation. During the investigation process, Toyota's supplier identified the problem while inspecting completed axle assemblies.
According to Reuters, Toyota has issued three recalls in the United States in the past two weeks, including the recall of 280,000 2022-2024 model year Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Lexus LX600, and 2023-2024 model year Sequoia Hybrid vehicles. The reason for the recalls is the potential for vehicles to move unexpectedly when in neutral and without the brake pedal depressed, and Toyota will address this issue through software updates.
