Toyota has issued a recall covering 550,007 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid SUVs due to a defect in the second-row seating. NHTSA filings confirm the recall applies to a specific subset of 2021–2024 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models.
The root cause involves the second-row recliner seatbacks. A design modification made by a component supplier did not correctly account for the spring weight balance between the locking spring and the return spring. As a result, the recliner's ratchet teeth may not fully engage, potentially leaving the seatback in an unlocked position. In a crash, an improperly locked seatback may fail to protect rear passengers as intended.
At the time of the recall filing, Toyota was aware of 10 field reports and 18 warranty claims from vehicles within the recall population. No injuries or fatalities connected to the issue had been reported.
Because this is a mechanical hardware defect rather than a software issue, a dealership visit is required to complete the remedy. Toyota plans to notify affected owners in April. Dealers will inspect the return springs and replace them with improved units at no cost to owners. Anyone wanting to check whether their vehicle is included in this or any other recall can search the NHTSA recalls database by VIN.
