Toyota is recalling over 33,000 vehicles due to a sticker that displays incorrect weight capacity limits. While this may not be a concern for car owners with limited cargo space, it can pose a problem for truck and large SUV owners. The recall is being initiated by Gulf States Toyota (GST), one of Toyota’s major vehicle and accessories distributors in the United States.
The recall affects various Toyota models, including the 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander/Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma/Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 bZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander/Highlander Hybrid, Prius/Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra/Tundra Hybrid, Venza, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid. These vehicles were equipped with GST accessories, such as rooftop tents and off-road parts, that didn’t align with the weight limit stickers on the vehicles.
Gulf States Toyota, based in Texas, operates throughout the South with over 150 stores across five states. During a June inspection, it was discovered that the weight limit stickers on vehicles sold by the group did not accurately reflect the installed accessories. This was attributed to a programming error in GST’s printing system, resulting in vehicles receiving weight limits that did not account for the dealer-installed accessories.
The issue with the weight stickers stems from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Federal Vehicle Safety Standards (FVSS). According to FVSS Standard 110, a vehicle’s weight capacity is determined based on the tires it uses. It specifies that the maximum load on the tire should not exceed the maximum load rating marked on the sidewall of the tire.
Fortunately, individuals who purchased one of the affected models from outside the Gulf States Toyota dealer group are not affected by this recall. However, those who did purchase a vehicle from the dealer group will receive a label in the mail to place over the incorrect weight limit stickers.
Recalls are a common occurrence in the automotive industry, ensuring the safety and compliance of vehicles on the road. This particular recall emphasizes the importance of accurate weight capacity information, especially for truck and SUV owners who may rely heavily on their vehicles’ hauling capabilities.
It is worth noting that Toyota’s swift response to rectify the situation by issuing replacement labels reflects the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and safety. Vehicle owners who receive the updated label can easily apply it themselves, ensuring that the weight capacity information is correct and aligns with the accessories installed on their vehicles.
In conclusion, while recalls can sometimes seem trivial, Toyota’s recall of over 33,000 vehicles for incorrect weight limit stickers demonstrates the brand’s dedication to upholding safety standards and providing accurate information to its customers. By promptly addressing the issue and providing replacement labels, Toyota and Gulf States Toyota are ensuring that affected vehicle owners can drive with confidence, knowing their vehicles’ weight limits are properly indicated.
