October 31, 2006
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is recalling 29,542 2005 and 2006 model year Scion TC Toyotas because the side and curtain airbags may deploy if the car door is closed with too much force.
NHTSA warns that the airbags "could cause personal injury if an occupant is seated on the same side of the vehicle as that door that is closed with a high rate of force."
The airbags are so sensitive that NHTSA is advising Scion TC owners to use "minimal force to close the driver and passenger doors."
The danger of airbags inadvertently deploying can occur when the door is slammed shut with the ignition in the on position or "within 90 seconds of turning the ignition key from the on position to the off position."
Toyota dealers will replace the two side airbag sensors and install a urethane pad in the front doors free of charge.
The recall begins in November and owners can call Toyota at 1-866-548-1851. The recall number is SSC 60H.
