Recall 11V245000: Air Bag Sensor Replacement

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Toyota/Highlander 2008

Toyota/Highlander Hybrid 2008

Toyota/RAV4 2007-2008

MANUFACTURER: Toyota Motor North America, Inc.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: April 21, 2011

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V245000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: N/A

COMPONENT: Air Bags: Frontal: Sensor/Control Module

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 307,848

SUMMARY:
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, and model year 2007-2008 RAV4 vehicles. In the Curtain Shield Airbag (CSA) system, there are two sensors in the airbag sensor assembly which are designed to detect vehicle roll angle. If one of these sensors malfunctions, the Airbag Warning Light (Malfunction Indicator Light: MIL) will illuminate and the roll detection system will be suspended; however, the airbag CSA remains available in the event of a side crash. If both sensors fail nearly simultaneously after initial airbag system check, the CSA and the seat belt pretensioner could be inadvertently activated.

CONSEQUENCE:
Inadvertent activation of the CSA and/or the seat belt pretensioner can cause injury to a vehicle occupant.

REMEDY:
Toyota will replace the airbag sensor assembly with a new one containing improved roll rate sensors, free of charge. Toyota intends to send an interim owner notification to owners early to Mid-May, 2011 when sufficient parts and remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.