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Toyota Venza Recalled Because of Side Airbags

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Toyota is recalling almost 280,000 Venza SUVs from 2009 to 2015 because of concerns that damaged wires on the driver’s-side door might prevent side and curtain airbags from deploying in a collision, risking injury.

If the wires rub against a grommet in the door, wearing improperly, the airbag sensor in the door could be rendered inoperable. There may be a related warning light in the instrument panel.

Toyota estimates that less than 1 percent of the vehicle population may experience this issue. The company is aware of more than 50 warranty claims related to this problem, and it will reimburse owners who paid for related work.

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The recall is expected to begin May 31.

The Details

Vehicles recalled: 279,040 Toyota Venzas from the 2009 to 2015 model years.

The problem: Wires in the driver’s door can wear, rendering the side airbag system inoperative.

The fix: Dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, replace the driver’s-side front door wire harness, free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 800-331-4331.

NHTSA campaign number: 21V-257. Toyota’s number for this recall is 21TB01/21TA01.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.