Toyota Motor (TM 0.05%) issued a recall notice Thursday for some 803,000 model year 2012-2013 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, and Venza vehicles.
As Toyota relates, a problem with the vehicles' air-conditioning condenser unit housings may permit water to leak onto their airbag control modules, causing short circuits. If this happens, the least serious result could be the airbag warning indicator lighting up. In more serious instances, air bag(s) could become disabled or could even deploy. Further complications may include loss of power steering, making it more difficult to control the vehicle.
Toyota describes a relatively simple procedure for fixing the problem, consisting of applying sealant and installing a new cover on the air-conditioning condenser unit housing seam located directly above the airbag control module. This should prevent leakage.
Toyota intends to inform owners of the affected vehicles by mail about the procedure for taking their vehicles to dealers for inspection and repair. In the meantime, owners who may require additional information can contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 for further details.
