Due to manufacturing issue with the air bag system, Toyota Motor North America will be conducting a voluntary recall on certain RAV4 SUVs. When built, the propellant used for the vehicle’s side curtain shield air bags may not match the proper specification. The initiator inside the inflator uses the propellant and if it is the wrong type, the device will not work correctly and therefore in the event of a crash, the curtain air bags may not deploy. Both the driver and passenger side systems could be at risk.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Toyota is looking into 2011 model year RAV4s. At this time, there are approximately 427 crossovers being investigated. The recall will cover vehicles manufactured from November 24 through December 19, 2011 and is expected to begin early in March 2012. Owners will be notified and instructed to have a certified dealer inspect the air bag system. The vehicle identification number will be checked and if needed, the entire side curtain assembly will be replaced with a new one free of charge.
Source: NHTSA
