by Key Recall Details
Safety as a Priority for Minivans
Safety remains a key factor for minivan buyers, as these vehicles regularly transport families, friends, and other passengers, often with the most important individuals in the second or third rows of seats.
In over 50,000 2025 model year Sienna hybrid minivans, the second row of seats could be potentially hazardous due to welding issues. As reported by Toyota, the cause may be an incorrect setting on a welding machine, leading to insufficient joint strength during a crash.
Documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration link the problem to supplier Toyota Boshoku Kentucky in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, where a welding machine was improperly calibrated during production.
The error occurred during the assembly of some second-row seat rails, which could have resulted in incomplete weld penetration. Consequently, the affected seats may not meet safety requirements in a collision.
Problem Identified During Testing
Toyota reports that the problem was identified during internal tests this summer when a seat prototype failed to meet the company’s standards. A subsequent investigation confirmed the concerns: some seat rails could lose strength in crash conditions.
Although the situation does not necessarily violate federal safety standards, Toyota is initiating a voluntary recall for safety reasons. It is worth noting that the brand reports no warranty claims or field reports related to this issue.
Recall Limitations
The issue only concerns hybrid Sienna models manufactured from January 14 to July 24, 2025. It does not extend to other two- or three-row Toyota or Lexus models.
Recall Process for Owners
Owners will receive official notifications between November 21 and December 6 of this year. Dealers will replace the seat rails in all 54,631 affected vehicles free of charge for the owners.
Toyota reports that dealers are being notified immediately, and the recall operations are registered under campaign codes 25TB12 and 25TA12. Those wishing to check if their vehicle is involved can use the Vehicle Identification Number on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website or contact their local dealer.
This recall underscores the importance of quality control in modern automotive plants, where even a minor technical error can have serious safety consequences. Toyota, as one of the market leaders, demonstrates transparency in addressing issues, which helps maintain consumer trust. The company’s swift response and free repairs show that passenger safety remains a priority, regardless of production scale.
