Based on coverage from CBC, CTV, and CarDealershipGuy.com.
Toyota is once again in the spotlight, and not for a new model release. This time, the automotive giant is recalling over 32,700 vehicles in Canada due to a glitch with rearview cameras. The recall, announced by Transport Canada, affects certain Toyota Sequoia and Tundra models, including hybrids, from the years 2022 to 2025. If you're driving one of these, it might be time to check your mail—or Toyota's recall database.
The issue at hand is a bit like trying to watch a movie on a TV that keeps flickering in and out. Under certain conditions, the rearview camera image might not display correctly or might disappear altogether. This is more than just an annoyance; it could potentially increase the risk of a crash since the rearview camera is a crucial tool for drivers when reversing. Canadian regulations mandate that the camera image must display when the vehicle is in reverse, so this defect is a clear violation.
Now, before you start imagining a scene from a sci-fi movie where cars drive themselves into chaos, rest assured that Toyota is on it. The company will notify affected vehicle owners in writing, advising them to visit a dealership for a software update. And yes, this update is on the house. Owners can also check if their vehicle is part of the recall by visiting Toyota's website or using their VIN or license plate on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's site.
This isn't Toyota's first tango with recalls this year. Just last month, they recalled over 70,000 vehicles due to a software glitch affecting the instrument panel display. That issue could leave drivers in the dark about their speed, fuel levels, and other critical information. It seems like Toyota's software team has had a busy year, to say the least.
The broader picture here is that back-over prevention failures have been a leading cause of recalls recently, affecting millions of vehicles. While some manufacturers are moving towards over-the-air software updates to address such issues, Toyota still relies on the traditional dealership visit for these fixes. It's a reminder that while our cars are getting smarter, they're not immune to the occasional brain freeze.
For Toyota owners, the key takeaway is to stay informed and proactive. If your vehicle is part of the recall, make sure to get the software update as soon as possible. It's a small step that could prevent a big problem. And for the rest of us, it's a reminder of the importance of keeping an eye on recall notices—because even the best technology can sometimes need a little help.
