Toyota’s China JVs Recall 560,000 SUVs Over Seat Safety Risk

Toyota Motor Corp.’s Chinese joint ventures are recalling more than 560,000 sport utility vehicles to fix a defect in the second-row seats that could jeopardize passenger safety during a collision.

From April 1, the Japanese carmaker and its local partner Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. will recall 317,990 Highlander vehicles, according to a statement from China’s State Administration for Market Regulation on Friday. Its joint venture with China FAW Group Co. will recall 242,170 Crown Kluger SUVs, it said.

The recall affects vehicles manufactured between July 2021 and January 2026. A representative for Toyota did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Regulators identified an issue with the second-row seatback adjuster, where an excessively strong return spring prevents the mechanism from locking properly into place — raising the risk that occupants may be inadequately restrained in the event of an accident. The companies will replace the faulty springs with redesigned components at no cost to owners.

The recall involves two popular models that are key to Toyota’s efforts to defend its market share in China, where the brand is one of the few foreign carmakers to regain some stability in the face of intense competition.

Top photo: A Toyota Motor Corp. dealership in Beijing. Photographer: Gilles Sabrié/Bloomberg.