Toyota Oz recalls 300,000

Toyota Australia’s longstanding reputation for reliability has taken a hit this morning after the Japanese company recalled about 300,000 cars due to safety concerns.

It’s part of a major global recall by the brand that will see 6.39 million cars returned worldwide due to varying issues.

In Australia, the recall affects about 179,000 HiLux utes built between April 2004 and December 2009 to replace a spiral cable fitted between the steering wheel and steering column.

Toyota said the cable can become damaged with repeated turning of the steering wheel and could cause the airbag to fail during an accident.

More than 116,000 Yaris models built between June 2005 and May 2010 have also been recalled to replace a spring in the driver’s seat that could become faulty due to repeated sliding back and forth.

If broken, the spring can prevent the seat from moving or give the false impression the seat is locked in place. In an accident, the seat could then move and increase the risk of injury.

Toyota Australia said it has received no reports of accidents or injuries as a result of the issues, and that the recall is a preventative measure only.

Affected customers will be notified of the recall by mail and asked to make an appointment at an authorised Toyota dealer.