Two Toyota Recalls Hit 4.3 Million Cars Worldwide For Curtain Air Bags And Emission Controls

A second recall for the Prius, Auris, Lexus CT200h, Lexus HS250h, and various other models pertain to the emissions control system. Over time, the evaporative emissions system could develop cracks that could lead to fuel leaks when the gas tank is full. This recall is for 2.87 million vehicles worldwide. No recall for US-market cars has been issued at this time.

The Problem: The curtain airbags in the Prius and CT200h use inflators consisting of two chambers welded together. Some cars, particularly those that sit parked for an extended period of time, can develop a crack in that weld. If the inflator chambers separate, the curtain airbag could inflate and the inflators could enter the vehicle.

For the evaporative emissions recall, Toyota says improper design of the evaporative emissions channels in car with a system mounted in the fuel tank could lead to cracks in those channels.

Injuries/Deaths: None reported.

The Fix: Toyota will install retention brackets that will prevent the inflators from entering the vehicle if separation occurs.

In the emissions case, Toyota will replace the evaporative emissions canister with an improved design.

If You Own One: Owners in the United States will be notified by first-class mail with further instructions.