Bottom Line Up Front: Toyota has paid over $78.5 million in recent settlements for defective airbag control units, with individual payouts up to $250 for certain vehicles plus reimbursement for repair-related expenses. If your Toyota airbag failed to deploy and you were injured, you may be entitled to significant compensation depending on your injuries, the specific defect, and the circumstances of your accident.
What Is the Average Settlement for Toyota Airbags Not Deploying?
Settlement amounts for Toyota airbag failures vary significantly based on several critical factors, but recent developments provide important context for understanding potential compensation.
Toyota has agreed to a $78.5 million class action lawsuit settlement to resolve claims certain vehicles have a defective air bag control unit, affecting vehicles from 2011-2019. If class members own or lease a vehicle that was not covered by an air bag recall, they may be able to receive up to $250 in a residual distribution payment.
However, individual personal injury settlements for Toyota airbag failures that cause serious injuries can range from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on:
Injury Severity: Cases involving catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or permanent disabilities typically result in higher settlements.
Medical Expenses: Both current and future medical costs, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care needs.
Lost Income: Past and future wage losses, including reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and impact on quality of life.
Multiple Defendants: You may be able to recover from both the negligent driver and Toyota/airbag manufacturer.
Check Your Toyota Airbag Recall Status Now
Before determining your legal options, verify if your Toyota has an active airbag recall:
2024 Active Recalls:
- Toyota Grand Highlander airbag recall (145,000 vehicles)
- Lexus TX series airbag defects
ZF-TRW Settlement Models (2011-2019):
- Toyota Corolla airbag recall affects 2011-2019 models
- Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, and Avalon models included
Check your VIN at toyota.com/recall or nhtsa.gov/recalls for current recall status.
Current Toyota Airbag Recalls and Settlements: 2024-2025
Recent $78.5 Million Toyota Airbag Control Unit Settlement
The settlement benefits current and former owners and lessees of 2011-2019 Corolla, 2011-2013 Corolla Matrix, 2012-2018 Avalon, 2013-2018 Avalon HV, 2012-2019 Tacoma, 2012-2017 Tundra and 2012-2017 Sequoia vehicles.
The settlement addresses allegations that ZF-TRW ACUs equipped in the Subject Vehicles are vulnerable to a condition called electrical overstress, which may cause the vehicles’ airbags and other safety features to fail during a collision.
Settlement Benefits Include:
- Reimbursement for out-of-pocket recall expenses (transportation, rental cars, childcare, towing)
- Residual payments up to $250 per qualifying class member
- Extended 12-year warranty on new recall-related parts
- Enhanced vehicle inspection program
- Loaner vehicle program for future repairs
Toyota Airbag Settlement Payout Timeline
Current Status: Claims processing delayed due to December 2023 appeal filed against the settlement
Expected Payout Date: No earlier than December 16, 2026 per court documents
Settlement Amount: Up to $250 per qualifying vehicle plus repair reimbursements
Appeal Impact: Claims will not be paid until the appeal is resolved
The court granted final approval on November 28, 2023, but the appeal process has created significant delays in settlement distribution.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander and Lexus TX Recall
Toyota has recalled over 145,000 Grand Highlander and Lexus TX550 vehicles because of a risk the airbags might not work properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The curtain shield airbag on both the driver’s and passenger’s side may not deploy as intended during certain crashes if the driver or passenger windows are rolled down.
Affected vehicles include:
- 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
- 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
- 2024 Lexus TX350
- 2024 Lexus TX500 Hybrid
- 2024 Lexus TX550 Hybrid+
Can You Sue Toyota for Airbags Not Deploying?
Yes, you can sue Toyota for airbags that fail to deploy, and you may have claims against multiple parties. Toyota airbag failure cases fall under product liability law, which provides several legal avenues for compensation.
Types of Toyota Airbag Defect Claims
Manufacturing Defects: When airbags are improperly made or assembled, causing them to malfunction during deployment.
Design Defects: Inherent flaws in the airbag system design that make them unreasonably dangerous.
Failure to Warn: Inadequate warnings about known airbag defects or risks.
Electrical Overstress: The specific defect identified in Toyota’s recent settlement, where electrical problems prevent proper airbag deployment.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Toyota Airbag Failures
Toyota Motor Corporation: As the vehicle manufacturer, Toyota can be held liable for defective airbag systems in their vehicles.
Airbag Manufacturers: Companies like Takata, ZF-TRW, and other suppliers who manufacture the actual airbag components.
Parts Suppliers: Other component manufacturers whose parts interface with the airbag system.
Dealerships: In some cases, dealers who fail to properly install replacement airbags or perform recalls.
Previous Owners: If you bought a used Toyota and the previous owner failed to replace deployed airbags.
Major Toyota Airbag Defect Cases and Settlements
The Takata Airbag Crisis
In 2017 Takata was fined $1 billion by the United States Department of Justice for concealing information about the defects of its airbags and misleading auto manufacturers. Takata also agreed to pay a settlement of $850 million to such automakers and $125 million to the victims of Takata airbag defects.
Since 2013, approximately 67 million Takata airbags have been recalled. The defective airbags have caused at least 18 deaths and more than 180 injuries in the U.S.
Current ZF-TRW Airbag Control Unit Litigation
The lawsuit was consolidated and filed by 53 plaintiffs from 23 states in May 2022 after a multi-district lawsuit had been originally filed in 2019. Two suppliers that make or sell the ACUs and/or component parts for the vehicles included in the lawsuit as well as automakers Hyundai, Hyundai Mobis, Kia, Honda, Fiat Chrysler, and Mitsubishi are also defendants in the suit.
Why Do Toyota Airbags Fail to Deploy?
Understanding the causes of Toyota airbag failures is crucial for building a strong legal case.
Electrical Overstress (Primary Current Issue)
Plaintiffs state that the alleged defect possibly present in the 2011–2019 Corolla, 2011–2013 Corolla Matrix; 2012–2018 Avalon; 2013–2018 Avalon HV; 2012–2019 Tacoma; 2012–2017 Tundra, and 2012–2017 Sequoia can result in the malfunction of the passenger safety system, including the failure of air bags to deploy during a collision.
Common Toyota Airbag Failure Causes
Sensor Malfunction: Crash sensors that fail to detect impact severity or angle may not trigger airbag deployment.
Electrical System Problems: Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or circuit malfunctions can prevent the deployment signal from reaching the airbags.
Impact Angle Issues: Toyota airbags are designed for specific crash scenarios and may not deploy in side-impact or rollover accidents.
Speed Threshold Problems: Some airbags have speed thresholds that may be set incorrectly, preventing deployment in crashes that should trigger them.
Software Glitches: Modern Toyota vehicles rely on computer systems that can malfunction, preventing proper airbag deployment.
Serious Injuries from Toyota Airbag Failures
When Toyota airbags fail to deploy, occupants face significantly higher risks of severe injuries. Understanding these injury patterns is essential for calculating fair compensation.
Head and Brain Injuries
Without airbag protection, drivers and passengers often strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or side windows, resulting in:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Concussions and post-concussion syndrome
- Skull fractures
- Facial fractures and disfigurement
- Eye injuries and vision loss
Chest and Torso Injuries
The absence of airbag cushioning can cause:
- Broken ribs and sternum fractures
- Collapsed lungs (pneumothorax)
- Heart and lung contusions
- Internal organ damage
Spinal Injuries
The sudden deceleration without airbag protection can lead to:
- Cervical spine fractures
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Herniated discs
- Severe whiplash injuries
Fatal Injuries
Such victims included more than 400 persons who were injured and at least 26 who were killed in the Takata airbag cases. Toyota airbag failures can result in wrongful death, particularly in high-speed frontal collisions.
How Toyota Airbag Lawyers Value Your Case
Personal injury attorneys consider multiple factors when evaluating Toyota airbag failure cases.
Medical Expenses and Future Care Costs
Current Medical Bills: Emergency room treatment, surgeries, hospitalization, and initial rehabilitation costs.
Future Medical Needs: Ongoing physical therapy, psychiatric treatment, adaptive equipment, and long-term care requirements.
Life Care Planning: For catastrophic injuries, economists and medical experts calculate lifetime care costs that can reach millions of dollars.
Lost Income and Earning Capacity
Past Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery and treatment periods.
Future Earning Capacity: Reduced ability to earn income due to permanent disabilities or cognitive impairments.
Benefits and Retirement Losses: Lost employment benefits, pension contributions, and retirement savings.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Physical Pain: Compensation for ongoing pain and discomfort from injuries.
Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological impacts.
Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities and hobbies previously enjoyed.
Loss of Consortium: Impact on relationships with spouse and family members.
Punitive Damages
In cases where Toyota or airbag manufacturers acted with gross negligence or concealed known defects, punitive damages may be available to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
Toyota Airbag Defect Legal Process
Understanding the legal process helps injured parties make informed decisions about pursuing compensation.
Immediate Steps After a Toyota Airbag Failure
Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get a complete medical evaluation to document all injuries.
Preserve Evidence: Do not have the vehicle repaired until an expert can examine the airbag system.
Document Everything: Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
Gather Information: Obtain police reports, witness statements, and medical records.
Contact an Attorney: Toyota airbag cases require specialized product liability expertise.
Investigation and Expert Analysis
Vehicle Inspection: Qualified experts examine the airbag system to determine why deployment failed.
Electronic Data Recovery: Modern Toyotas have event data recorders that capture crash information.
Technical Documentation: Reviewing Toyota’s internal documents, recalls, and safety communications.
Medical Expert Review: Determining the extent of injuries and their relationship to the airbag failure.
Building Your Toyota Airbag Case
Establishing Defect: Proving the airbag system was defective and should have deployed.
Causation: Demonstrating that the airbag failure directly caused or worsened your injuries.
Damages Calculation: Quantifying all economic and non-economic losses.
Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction, medical, and engineering experts support your claims.
Recent Toyota Airbag Settlement Trends
Understanding recent settlement patterns helps set realistic expectations for potential compensation.
Class Action Settlements vs. Individual Cases
Class Action Benefits: Provide compensation for economic losses, repair costs, and reduced vehicle value, typically ranging from $250 to several thousand dollars per claimant.
Individual Personal Injury Cases: Can result in significantly higher compensation for serious injuries, often ranging from tens of thousands to millions of dollars.
Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts
Injury Severity: Catastrophic injuries typically result in higher settlements than minor injuries.
Age of Plaintiff: Younger victims often receive higher awards due to longer life expectancy and earning potential.
Toyota’s Knowledge: Cases where Toyota knew about defects but failed to act may result in higher settlements.
Strength of Evidence: Clear documentation of the defect and its role in causing injuries supports higher compensation.
Toyota Vehicles Most Affected by Airbag Defects
Certain Toyota models have experienced more airbag-related issues than others.
Current Recall Models (2024-2025)
- 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander (all variants)
- 2024 Lexus TX series vehicles
ZF-TRW Airbag Control Unit Settlement Models
- 2011-2019 Toyota Corolla
- 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla Matrix
- 2012-2018 Toyota Avalon
- 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon Hybrid
- 2012-2019 Toyota Tacoma
- 2012-2017 Toyota Tundra
- 2012-2017 Toyota Sequoia
Historical Takata Airbag Affected Models
- 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla
- 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix
- 2004-2005 Toyota RAV4
- Various other Toyota models from 2002-2015
Toyota Corolla Airbag Recall Details
The Toyota Corolla has been subject to multiple airbag recalls spanning 2003-2019 model years. The 2011-2019 Corolla models are specifically included in the $78.5 million ZF-TRW settlement for electrical overstress defects that prevent proper airbag deployment.
Toyota Grand Highlander Recall Update
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander recall affects 145,000 vehicles where curtain shield airbags may not deploy correctly if windows are down during certain crashes. Toyota has confirmed a solution and replacement airbags are now available at dealerships.
How to Check If Your Toyota Has an Airbag Recall
Toyota Recall Website: Visit toyota.com/recall and enter your VIN or license plate number.
NHTSA Website: Check nhtsa.gov/recalls for federal safety recalls.
Settlement Websites: For specific class action settlements, use the VIN lookup tools on official settlement administration websites.
Dealer Inquiry: Contact your local Toyota dealership with your VIN for recall information.
What Toyota Owners Should Do Right Now
If You Own an Affected Toyota Model
Check Recall Status: Immediately verify if your vehicle is subject to any open recalls.
Get Repairs Done: Have recall repairs completed at authorized Toyota dealerships as soon as possible.
Document Everything: Keep records of all recall notices, repair work, and related expenses.
Monitor for Issues: Be alert to warning lights or airbag system error messages.
If You’ve Been Injured by a Toyota Airbag Failure
Preserve the Vehicle: Do not repair or dispose of the vehicle until expert examination is complete.
Gather Documentation: Collect all medical records, accident reports, and vehicle maintenance records.
Avoid Insurance Company Traps: Do not accept quick settlement offers without consulting an attorney.
Contact Specialized Counsel: Toyota airbag cases require attorneys with product liability experience.
Why Toyota Airbag Cases Require Specialized Legal Experience
Toyota airbag failure cases involve complex technical and legal issues that require specialized expertise.
Product Liability Law Complexity
Multiple Legal Theories: Cases may involve strict liability, negligence, and breach of warranty claims.
Technical Evidence: Understanding airbag technology, crash dynamics, and vehicle electronics.
Corporate Documentation: Obtaining and analyzing Toyota’s internal communications and safety data.
Expert Witnesses: Coordinating testimony from accident reconstruction, medical, and engineering experts.
Toyota’s Legal Resources
Experienced Defense Teams: Toyota employs sophisticated legal teams with extensive resources.
Technical Expertise: Toyota has access to leading engineering and safety experts.
Settlement Strategy: Toyota may offer quick settlements to avoid larger judgments at trial.
Litigation History: Understanding Toyota’s patterns in defending airbag cases.
Statute of Limitations for Toyota Airbag Cases
Time limits for filing Toyota airbag lawsuits vary by state and legal theory.
Personal Injury Claims
Discovery Rule: Most states start the limitation period when you discover the injury and its connection to the airbag defect.
Typical Time Limits: Range from 1-4 years depending on state law.
Product Liability Considerations: Some states have special rules for product defect cases.
Wrongful Death Claims
Shorter Time Limits: Wrongful death cases often have shorter limitation periods.
Family Member Rights: Different family members may have different limitation periods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Airbag Defects
How much can you sue Toyota for airbag defects?
Individual settlements range from thousands to millions depending on injury severity. Recent class action settlements provide up to $250 per vehicle plus repair reimbursements for affected models.
Which Toyota models have airbag recalls in 2024?
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander and Lexus TX series have active airbag recalls affecting 145,000 vehicles for curtain airbag deployment issues.
When will Toyota airbag settlement payments be made?
The $78.5 million settlement payments are delayed until at least December 16, 2026, due to an appeal filed in December 2023.
How do I check if my Toyota has an airbag recall?
Visit toyota.com/recall and enter your VIN or license plate number, or check nhtsa.gov/recalls for federal safety recall information.
How to Find the Right Toyota Airbag Attorney
Selecting qualified legal representation is crucial for maximizing your compensation.
Essential Attorney Qualifications
Product Liability Experience: Specific experience with automotive defect cases.
Toyota Case History: Previous experience with Toyota airbag or safety defect cases.
Trial Experience: Willingness and ability to take cases to trial if necessary.
Expert Network: Established relationships with qualified experts in relevant fields.
Resources: Financial ability to fund extensive litigation against major corporations.
Questions to Ask Potential Attorneys
- How many Toyota airbag cases have you handled?
- What were the outcomes of those cases?
- How will you investigate my specific case?
- What experts will you use?
- How do you charge for your services?
- What is your trial experience with product liability cases?
The Value of Your Toyota Airbag Case: Get Expert Evaluation
If you have been injured in an accident where your Toyota airbag failed to deploy, the specific value of your case depends on numerous factors unique to your situation. Recent settlements and court awards provide important context, but every case is different.
Important factors affecting your case value include:
Your Specific Injuries: The nature, severity, and long-term impact of your injuries.
Toyota Model and Year: Whether your vehicle is covered by current recalls or class action settlements.
Accident Circumstances: The type of crash and whether the airbag should have deployed.
Available Evidence: Documentation of the defect and its role in your injuries.
Insurance Coverage: Available coverage from all potentially liable parties.
Your Personal Situation: Age, occupation, income, and family circumstances.
Given the complexity of Toyota airbag cases and the significant resources Toyota devotes to defending them, it is essential to work with experienced product liability attorneys who understand these unique challenges. The right legal team can investigate your case thoroughly, identify all potential sources of compensation, and fight for the full value of your claim.
If you have been injured due to a Toyota airbag failure, time is critical. Evidence can be lost, witnesses’ memories fade, and legal deadlines approach. Contact qualified product liability attorneys immediately to protect your rights and maximize your potential recovery.
The stakes in Toyota airbag cases are high, both for injured individuals seeking fair compensation and for Toyota in terms of reputation and financial exposure. With proper legal representation and thorough case preparation, injured parties can hold Toyota accountable for defective airbags and obtain the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.
