Toyota China JVs to recall over five lakh locally made cars

Toyota’s joint ventures with GAC and FAW will recall 560,160 vehicles in China from next month due to a defect in rear seat design, the country’s market regulator said on Friday. The State Administration for Market Regulation said the recall includes 317,990 Highlander SUVs and 242,170 Crown Kluger SUVs produced locally. The defect involves excessive return spring force in the rear seat backrest adjuster, which can result in poor locking and increase the risk of injury in a collision.The recall will be carried out by GAC Toyota and FAW Toyota, which will inform affected owners and conduct inspections and repairs. The regulator said the action is part of routine oversight to address safety defects, with corrective measures to be provided free of charge. The Highlander and Crown Kluger are among Toyota’s key models in China’s mid-size SUV segment, underscoring the scale of the recall. No incidents linked to the issue were disclosed, though authorities said the defect could affect occupant safety under certain conditions.Toyota has not announced a global recall for the issue, suggesting it may be limited to locally produced vehicles or components. The move follows increased regulatory scrutiny in China’s auto sector as authorities step up action on safety issues. The recall process will begin next month, with further details to be shared with customers through official channels.