Toyota will recall 342,451 Tacoma Access Cab vehicles due to a defect in the rear seat belts installed. The models involved in the recall are from 2005-2011. These Toyota Tacoma Access Cab vehicles were manufactured September 14, 2004 through March 29, 2010; and between July 1, 2010 and September 7, 2011. The problem with the rear seat belts is with the screws. Toyota has found that if the access doors are repeatedly and forcefully closed, the screws that attach the seat belt pre-tensioner to the seat belt retractor can loosen over time.
If the screw comes loose completely from the system, the seat belt pre-tensioner could detach from the seat belt assembly. If this occurs, there will be a compromise in seat belt safety for rear passenger occupants. The seat belt pre-tensioner will not performed as designed by Toyota engineers, and this will increase the risk of severe injury in a crash. According to Toyota representative, Cindy Knight, “The issue is the result of a design flaw, rather than a manufacturing defect.” Knight added that “no accidents or injuries have been reported” because of this ‘design flaw’.
Click here to read the full LA Times article: Toyota recalls 342,000 Tacoma trucks to fix issue with seat belts
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the seat belts. Based on the inspection, the seat belt assembly will be replaced or new pre-tensioner screws will be installed. These services will be provided at no cost to the owner. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Toyota at 800-331-4331.
Americans rely on their car manufactures to provide a safe well-designed vehicle. Sadly, that is not often the case. The Auto Defect Attorneys at the Brandi Law Firm has successfully represented many people injured from defective Toyotas, Fords, Chrysler, Nissan, GM products and numerous other manufacturers and suppliers. Often times, people involved in accidents do not examine the issues of defective vehicle design nor whether the car was truly crashworthy – does it contain the appropriate crash protection. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto crash, our attorneys at the Brandi Law Firm are available to consult with you. Please contact our office at 800-481-1615 or email us