Plano, TX – April 2, 2026 – Toyota (NYSE:TM) is recalling 550,007 SUVs whose rear seats do not lock properly. This defect reduces occupant protection, upping the chances of an injury.
The following models are affected:
- 2021 – 2024 Toyota Highlander
- 2021 – 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Recall summary
The Highlander’s second-row seat can be reclined into a desired position by tilting the seat backs. Due to a manufacturing flaw, the recliner mechanism in the affected SUVs may fail to lock the seat’s back after the adjustment is made.
Recall risks
An unsecured seat back may not hold the passenger firmly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Other Toyota recalls
In February 2026, Toyota recalled over 160,000 Tundra pickups whose rearview cameras could have failed to show an image.
In December 2025, nearly 130,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles were recalled over an engine issue that may have caused them to stall while driving.
The repair
Dealers will fix the recliner mechanism by replacing a spring that locks it into place. This will be done free of charge.
Notifications to the owners will be mailed between April 20, 2026 and May 4, 2026.
Is your vehicle a part of this recall?
More than half a million SUVs are affected by this Toyota seat back recall. To do a Toyota recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
