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Toyota Recalls 550K Highlanders Over Seatback Safety Defect

3/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Toyota is recalling about 550,000 Highlander SUVs from model years 2021–2024 due to a defect in the second-row seatback reclining mechanism.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says seatbacks may not lock, risking passenger safety.
The defect was identified in October 2023 during a factory inspection, and Toyota announced the recall in February 2026.
Notification letters go out by early May; dealers will replace parts at no cost.

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Story summary

Toyota is recalling about 550,000 Highlander SUVs from model years 2021–2024 due to a defect in the second-row seatback reclining mechanism.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says seatbacks may not lock, risking passenger safety.
The defect was identified in October 2023 during a factory inspection, and Toyota announced the recall in February 2026.
Notification letters go out by early May; dealers will replace parts at no cost.