Toyota recalls Prius and CT200h over side airbags and fuel emission controls



Just recently, Toyota Motor Corp announced a worldwide recall over possible defects involving airbag modules and fuel emissions control units. Now, UMW Toyota is running a special service campaign involving some of the cars sold in Malaysia.

This involves two hybrid models:

  • 3,500 units of Toyota Prius (third generation) – 2009- 2012
  • 2,700 units of Lexus CT200h – (2010-2012)

The first recall involves the side/curtain airbag inflators, which were not related to the recent Takata scandal. Instead, the airbags in question here is supplied by Swedish company Autoliv, who is responsible for supplying over 90 percent of the inflators for the Prius model.

It’s believed the inflators for the side airbags are suspected to have a small crack in a welded area, which potentially can cause the separation of the inflator chambers. The inflator could deploy prematurely into the car’s interior, potentially injuring the occupants. The repair work will add retention brackets on the side airbag inflators, preventing the inflator chambers from being ejected into the cabin. The work will take approximately two to four hours to complete.

The second recall is related to an emissions control unit or charcoal canister. There is a possibility that cracks could develop in the coating of the emissions channel due to the improper shaping of portions of the channel. This could lead to cracks which will eventually cause a fuel leak. During the remediation work, the fuel suction plate subassembly will be replaced and will take between two to three hours.lexus ct200h-2

As reported by Reuters, no injuries have been linked to either issue. Meanwhile, owners are advised to bring their cars to the nearest authorised UMW Toyota service center for the rectification. All replacement costs, if necessary, will be borne by the manufacturer.

You may contact Toyota and Lexus via their toll-free number at 1800-8- TOYOTA (869682) or 1800-8- LEXUS (53987). Remember, this issue is not to be taken lightly at all.