Toyota Canada has issued a recall affecting 24,454 Sienna Hybrid minivans from the 2022-2026 model years due to a restraint system flaw that could cause second-row seatbacks to unlock during a collision. It’s worth noting that the automaker is explicitly warning owners not to use the middle-row seats to transport passengers until the issue is fixed.
The problem
The problem involves a conflict between the seat locking mechanism and the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). According to safety notices updated on October 23, 2026, the mechanisms locking the second-row seat recliners in position may disengage under certain conditions when a seatbelt pretensioner activates during an impact.
Ironically, the activation of the safety pretensioner designed to secure occupants can cause the seatback itself to move freely during a crash. In a family vehicle frequently equipped with child safety seats or carrying young passengers in the middle row, an unlocked seatback significantly increases the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
The solution
To resolve the issue, Toyota technicians will update the software in the vehicle’s SRS electronic control unit, which governs the activation parameters of the seatbelt pretensioners. All repairs will be completed free of charge at authorized Toyota dealerships.
Toyota will notify affected owners by mail instructing them to schedule a service appointment. In the interim, the manufacturer strongly urges owners to keep the second-row seats unoccupied until the software update is performed.
Canadian owners can verify if their Sienna Hybrid is included in this safety recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into Toyota Canada’s online recall portal or by calling customer service directly at 1-888-869-6828.