Toyota has issued a voluntary recall of its 2022 and 2023 model Corolla Cross SUVs. The recall only covers the non-hybrid category.

The company says the passenger airbags in some Corolla Cross models are defective. This could prevent the airbag from inflating in the correct way. A defective airbag won’t be able to protect the passenger. This could lead to injuries in a crash.

Toyota expects around 96,000 units of the Corolla Cross to have this problem.

Understanding the Problem

Safety reports noted that a manufacturing defect is behind the airbag issue. The problem is in the part of the dashboard that could cause the airbag to be in the wrong placement and manner.

The instrument panel has a perforation. This opens if the front passenger airbag activates. But a supplier reportedly didn’t follow instructions. It could mean the perforation might not be in place. This could cause the airbag to deploy in a manner it’s not supposed to.

This manufacturing defect means certain Corolla Crosses don’t meet federal safety standards. It’s one of the reasons Toyota issued the recall.

What Can Consumers Do?

Toyota is advising owners of 2022 and 2023 Corolla Cross SUVs not to let anyone sit in the front passenger seat. They must have the problem fixed first.

The company says owners must head to the nearest licensed Toyota dealership. The dealers will inspect the instrument panel. They will then fix or replace the panel if necessary. This is a free service.

Toyota is also set to mail out owner notification letters by July 10, 2023.

Consumers can also contact Toyota’s customer service at (800) 331-4331. They can use the code 23TB04/23TA04 for this recall.