Toyota has issued a recall for 43,395 of its 2023-2024 Sequoia SUVs due to a potential issue with their tow hitch covers. These covers, manufactured by Toyoda Gosei, may detach while driving due to insufficient retention. The automaker has identified a flaw in the attachment structure that allows the covers to come loose.
Toyota received reports of this issue in November 2022 and January 2023 but was unable to investigate due to lack of recovered parts. Subsequent investigations at the supplier’s plant and the vehicle assembly plant revealed that the clip engagement holes were out of specification, leading to insufficient retention. Toyoda Gosei has since updated its production process to address this issue.
However, Toyota continued to see an increasing number of warranty claims related to the tow hitch covers in August 2023. To rectify this issue, Toyota will inspect and replace the affected tow hitch covers free of charge.
Owners of recalled vehicles will be notified by mail and encouraged to schedule a service appointment at an authorized Toyota dealership. Toyota emphasizes the importance of addressing this recall promptly to ensure the safety of vehicle occupants and pedestrians.
Toyota has issued a recall for Sequoia vehicles equipped with a tow hitch cover that has been prone to detachment while driving. After receiving numerous complaints from vehicle owners and reports of the issue, the automaker decided to redesign the cover and reinforce the rear bumper to improve retention.
The recall affects Sequoia vehicles built in 2023 and earlier. Toyota has identified over 1,000 warranty claims and 15 field technical reports related to the issue. The redesigned tow hitch cover features a more secure attachment mechanism and is designed to better withstand the forces of driving.
Additionally, Toyota will modify the rear bumper to provide additional support for the cover and prevent it from detaching. The recall is expected to affect a significant number of Sequoia vehicles. Toyota has not yet released specific details about the number of vehicles affected, but it is likely to be in the thousands.
Owners of Sequoia vehicles will begin receiving notification letters in October. The letters will provide information about the recall and instructions on how to schedule a service appointment.
The recall is a reminder of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and inspections. Even new vehicles can experience problems, and it is important to be aware of any recalls or safety issues that may affect your vehicle.
