Toyota Australia has been swept up in a recall of more than 6.5 million cars worldwide.
The Japanese brand's local arm has recalled two of its most popular models due to serious safety concerns. Almost 300,000 HiLux utes and Yaris city cars will be recalled in Australia to have the problems rectified.
Toyota said a wiring fault for the HiLux could see airbags fail to deploy during a crash.
"The spiral cable, which is part of the supplementary restraint system located between the steering wheel and steering column, may become damaged when the steering wheel is repeatedly turned," the company said in a statement.
The recall affects approximately 179,000 examples of the current generation Hilux built between April 2004 and December 2009.
Toyota Australia has also recalled approximately 118,600 Yaris hatchbacks and sedans built between June 2005 and May 2010.
The Yaris flaw relates to a spring in its seat adjustment system that could mean the seat will fail to lock into position and could move during a crash.
The manufacturer said there have been no reports of accidents or injuries as a result of the problem.
Toyota said the Hilux’s repairs will take an hour to complete, while the Yaris work ranges from 1.5 to three hours.
Industry sources say the company pays dealers about $95 per hour for warranty work, and parts for 297,600 vehicles could see costs reach more than $40 million.
Toyota said it will repair the flaws without charge, and that customers can find out more on 1800 643 242
Source:
Toyota Australia recalls almost 300,000 cars