Toyota recalling 381,000 Tacoma pickups because of crash risk

Updated: Feb 28, 2024 / 10:11 PM CST

FILE – This photo shows a logo of Toyota Motor Corp. at a dealer on May 11, 2022, in Tokyo. Japanese transport officials raided a factory of a Toyota group company on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, to investigate cheating on engine testing as its chairman vowed to ensure it is “making good cars.” (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

DETROIT (AP) — Toyota is recalling about 381,000 Tacoma midsize pickup trucks in the U.S. because a part can separate from the rear axle, increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall covers certain trucks from the 2022 and 2023 model years.

Toyota said in a statement Tuesday that welding debris left on the ends of the axles can cause some nuts to loosen over time and eventually fall off. That can cause the part to separate from the axle, which can affect stability and brake performance.

Toyota wouldn’t say if there have been any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.

Dealers will inspect the rear axles and tighten retaining nuts at no cost to owners. Any damaged components will be repaired or replaced. Customers will be notified by mail in late April, the company says.