Hearing the word Toyota means pronounce next to it the word “reliability”, don’t you think so? Well, Toyota has just issued an urgent recall for two of their vehicles: Hilux SRX and GR-Sport models sold between February 2023 and April 2024. The reason? A defect in the sports bar, mounted above the truck bed, which, although many bought it for its looks, could end up causing serious problems…
And it’s not just a decorative issue! This system is poorly designed and wears down too quickly, even with normal use. It won’t make the vehicle fall apart, but it can cause annoying noises, vibrations, or even destabilize the structure if it is not fixed in time. Toyota has already acknowledged the flaw and committed to fixing it at no cost, just as we expect Toyota to do.
Which models are affected?
Only the SRX and GR-Sport IV versions with the factory-installed bar. If your Hilux came without it when you bought it, you can relax now. But if you bought it with the black bar, it’s time to act, especially if you received your vehicle between February 2023 and April 2024.
Toyota clarifies that this does not compromise driving safety, but it is a defect that needs to be corrected before it becomes a bigger issue, so, it’s time to make a visit to your nearest dealership!
What exactly is wrong with the bar?
The support that holds it in place doesn’t withstand what it should. It wears out quickly, more than what would be considered acceptable for a truck built to endure anything. For this reason, the company has halted production of that accessory and has quietly removed it from promotional images, excluding it from all vehicles delivered since May of last year… Sounds weird.
Now that the issue is confirmed, two solutions are available for owners:
- Reinstall the original bar once it’s redesigned (when ready).
- Replace it with an alternative bar, free of charge.
Both options are free for users (of course) and handled at any Toyota’s official dealership. You just need to book an appointment and bring in your vehicle.
What did users think about the bar?
The bar had been the subject of debate since the beginning. Some loved its style, while others saw it as an unnecessary add-on that only added weight (and others thought it was unattractive…). Now, with this recall, it’s clear it wasn’t just a matter of taste.
The fact that Toyota began delivering the vehicles without the bar and then removed it from the photos was a clue, of course it was. But only now, with the official statement, do we know what was going on.
What should I do if I own a Hilux SRX or GR-Sport?
First: check if your unit is affected. You can do this in two ways:
- By entering your VIN number on Toyota’s website.
- Or by speaking directly with the dealership where you bought the vehicle.
Toyota is showing something important here: even aesthetic accessories can become headaches if it is not properly designed. The good news is that the brand has responded quickly and is offering a clear, straightforward solution, exactly what is expected from a company of Toyota’s calibre, one that can react swiftly and confidently to any issues that arise with its vehicles.
If you are not sure at all if your vehicle is part of this recall, it’s best to play it safe, head to your dealership to have your truck inspected and keep enjoying your adventures!