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Toyota Tundra Recall Alert: 2018-2019 Models Affected – What Owners Should Do | MotorVero
Urgent Safety Recall: 2018-2019 Toyota Tundra Airbag System Defect
Last updated: [Current Date] | By MotorVero Safety Team
Critical Recall Summary--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
- Vehicles Affected: ~138,000 model-year 2018-2019 Tundras
- Production Dates: August 2017 - September 2018
- Issue: Airbag sensor fault detection failure
- Risk: Potential airbag non-deployment in crashes
- Repair: Free ECU update and sensor inspection
- Notification: Late October 2018
Understanding the Airbag System Defect
The recall addresses a critical software issue in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS):
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- ECU Programming Error: Incorrect fault detection during startup
- Sensor Disabling: May deactivate crash sensors without warning
- Potential Consequences:
- Side/curtain airbags may not deploy
- Front/knee airbags may fail to activate
- Increased injury risk in collisions
Warning Signs (Though Most Vehicles Show No Symptoms)
- SRS warning light illuminated on dashboard
- Airbag system error messages
- Unusual beeping during startup
- Technical Details
The affected vehicles were produced at Toyota's San Antonio, Texas plant (VINs beginning with "5TF"). NHTSA campaign number 18V-684 addresses this safety issue.
Unlike physical part failures, this recall involves reprogramming the airbag control module software to properly detect sensor faults.
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\Repair Process
Authorized Toyota dealers will perform the following at no charge:
- Connect diagnostic tool to SRS computer
- Verify current ECU software version
- Upload updated software (takes ~30 minutes)
- Test all crash sensors for proper operation
- Verify warning light functionality
Note: No physical parts will be replaced unless sensors fail diagnostic tests.
Owner Action Plan
1. Check Your VIN
- Toyota Recall Lookup: www.toyota.com/recall
- NHTSA Recall Check: www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
2. Contact Information
- Toyota Customer Service: 800-331-4331
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
3. Schedule Service
- Find your nearest dealer: www.toyota.com/dealers
- Request loaner vehicle if needed (policies vary by dealer)
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is my truck safe to drive before the repair?
Toyota hasn't issued a "Do Not Drive" order but recommends scheduling the update promptly. If your SRS warning light is on, avoid driving until inspected.
Will this affect my vehicle's resale value?
Properly completed recall repairs won't negatively impact value. The recall will appear in vehicle history reports but shows responsible maintenance.
What if I already had airbag-related repairs?
You may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact Toyota Customer Experience at 800-331-4331 with documentation.
How long will the repair take?
Most updates take under an hour if no sensor replacements are needed. Schedule during oil change for efficiency.
Additional Resources
- Toyota Recall Center: www.toyota.com/recall
- NHTSA Recall Database: www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Tundra Owners Forum: www.tundras.com
MotorVero Note: Our independent editorial team provides this safety information to help protect consumers without manufacturer influence.
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Last Updated On Oct, 08-2025