Toyota Tells Dealers to Stop Selling 8 Models - Fabric, Seat Heaters

Toyota has ordered dealers to stop selling 8 models that have fabric seats AND seat heaters while they address a safety issue. This is a temporary problem that is being addressed quickly.

An Autonews.com story says that Toyota has issued a “stop sell” order to dealers with regards to 8 different models. The vehicles affected are “2013 and 2014 Camry sedan, Camry hybrid, Avalon sedan, Avalon hybrid, Corolla subcompact, Sienna minivan and Tundra and Tacoma pickup trucks equipped with seat heaters that were sold since August 2012, according to the Autonews article.” The fabric supplier was changed in August, 2012.

The fabric used with the seat heaters was found to not meet flammability standards after a South Korean safety agency tested the seats. Those standards are the same ones used in the U.S.

Toyota says that it is currently working on a fix and will install it ASAP. It is unknown at this time as to the total number of vehicles affected since some are on dealer lots, some have been sold and others are in transit. Toyota is working on developing a final tally and will work on contacting owners of the affected vehicles.

There have been no fires or accidents in North America related to the issue according to Toyota. It is simply that it doesn’t meet standards.

Toyota has asked the NHTSA to classify the problem as “inconsequential noncompliance.” This distinction is used by many automakers and is quite common. This classification means that an official recall isn’t likely rather Toyota is addressing the issue internally.

Affected owners who are concerned about their vehicle should contact their dealer or the Toyota national help line.

Written by Tim Esterdahl