On Thursday, Toyota announced that it halted production of its Grand Highlander and Lexus TX models. According to Toyota officials, the Princeton, Indiana, plant cleared its shift schedule yesterday and will do the same today. The automaker is conducting a noncompliance safety recall involving the driver airbag in both vehicles.

In a press release, Toyota explained that if the left front window is rolled down, the left front curtain airbag might not deploy as it should. Since this risk violates federal safety standards, the company recalled 145,000 vehicles over the problem.

Per Toyota, “Approximately, 145,000 vehicles are involved in this recall in the U.S. The curtain shield airbag on the driver’s side may not deploy as intended during certain crashes if the driver’s window is rolled down. If this occurs, the vehicles may not meet a federal safety standard, increasing the risk of injury during certain crashes.”

The Grand Highlander and Lexus TX share the same platform. Both are three-row SUVs. However, the Grand Highlander is two inches shorter. Of course, the Lexus version touts a more luxurious interior and ride quality. 

For 2024, the IIHS rated the Grand Highlander “Good” for side crashworthiness. The Lexus TX received the same score.

Owners will be formally notified of the recall by mid-August. For additional information, they can check the NHTSA’s site. They may also call the Toyota Brand Engagement Center at  1-800-331-4331 if they are calling about Toyota vehicles. Contact the Lexus Brand Engagement Center at 1-800-255-3987.