Toyota Recalls 2022-2024 Lexus LX Models Due to Airbag System Defect

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing is initiating a recall for 15,264 model year 2022-2024 Lexus LX vehicles due to a potential issue with the front passenger airbag system. The defect, identified as NHTSA Recall Number 26V180, stems from a manufacturing error at a supplier’s plant that could lead to the Occupant Classification System (OCS) inaccurately measuring occupant weight. This inaccuracy could prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying as intended in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

The recall specifically affects Lexus LX vehicles produced between July 30, 2021, and July 18, 2024, although not all vehicles within this production window are impacted. The issue is linked to a specific seat frame assembly that may have insufficient clearance between the frame and a stopper. This insufficient clearance, which Toyota estimates may be present in approximately 30% of the affected vehicles, can lead to interference when the seat height is adjusted to certain positions. When this interference occurs, it can cause the OCS sensor to misinterpret the occupant load.

The defect was first identified in July 2024 when Toyota observed a vehicle with the “Airbag OFF” indicator illuminated while the passenger seat was occupied during a final inspection. Subsequent investigation revealed interference between the seat frame and stopper in that vehicle. Further analysis between November 2024 and June 2025 determined that a clearance of less than 3.8 millimeters between the seat frame and stopper could lead to contact. From July 2025 to March 2026, Toyota conducted a parts recovery activity to assess field vehicles and confirmed that some seat frame assemblies exhibited clearances below this critical threshold. Vehicle testing in March 2026 demonstrated that in cases with the smallest observed clearances, not only did contact occur, but the OCS sensor misclassified the occupant’s weight. This led to Toyota determining on March 18, 2026, that the vehicles may not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 208 for occupant crash protection.

Owners of the potentially affected Lexus LX vehicles will be notified by mail between May 9 and May 23, 2026. Lexus dealerships will inspect the relevant seat components. If the seat frame assembly is found to be within the affected range, it will be replaced at no cost to the owner. As the repair is expected to occur within the vehicle’s new vehicle limited warranty period, owners will not incur any charges for the recall service. Vehicle identification numbers (VINs) for affected vehicles will be searchable starting on March 24, 2026. Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from flammable materials until the recall repair is completed, although the press release does not explicitly state this is a “Do Not Drive” advisory.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing.

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