Many Toyota drivers may soon receive compensation after the company agreed to a $78.5 million settlement. This decision comes after complaints that certain Toyota cars had faulty airbag control units, which may not work properly during crashes. The lawsuit aimed to hold Toyota responsible for safety risks caused by these issues.
Even though Toyota did not admit any fault, they agreed to settle to avoid a long court process. The agreement covers Toyota vehicles made between 2011 and 2019, including popular models like the Corolla, Avalon, Tacoma, and Tundra. Drivers who owned or leased one of these vehicles could receive money, extended warranties, or free inspections.
If you owned a Toyota during those years, you might be able to file a claim. You’ll need to check if your car is eligible, collect the right documents, and submit your claim by the deadline. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the case, the benefits offered, and how to apply.
Why Toyota Is Paying a Settlement
This lawsuit began because some Toyota vehicles were found to have faulty airbag control units. These units help control when airbags open during accidents. In some cases, the units failed, meaning airbags didn’t deploy at all, which could lead to serious injuries.
Investigations pointed to a possible electrical issue causing these problems. The lawsuit also said Toyota may have delayed fixing the problem, even after knowing about it. To resolve the case and support customers, Toyota agreed to settle the lawsuit.
List of Toyota Models Included
Here are the Toyota vehicles involved in the settlement. If you owned or leased one of these between the years listed, you may qualify for benefits:
| Vehicle Model | Manufacturing Years |
|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | 2011-2019 |
| Toyota Corolla Matrix | 2011-2013 |
| Toyota Avalon | 2012-2018 |
| Toyota Avalon HV | 2013-2018 |
| Toyota Tacoma | 2012-2019 |
| Toyota Tundra | 2012-2017 |
| Toyota Sequoia | 2012-2017 |
You can check if your car is part of the case using the VIN Lookup Tool on the official website.
Main Problems Raised in the Case
The lawsuit brought up several safety problems with the airbags:
- Airbags Might Not Work: In some cases, airbags didn’t open during accidents, which is a serious danger.
- Faulty Control Units: The part that tells the airbag to deploy could fail due to defects.
- Higher Risk of Injury: Without airbags, people in the vehicle could suffer worse injuries.
- Delayed Action by Toyota: It’s claimed that Toyota took too long to alert customers or fix the issue.
Although Toyota has not admitted doing anything wrong, the company decided to offer compensation to affected customers.
What Toyota Owners Can Get from the Settlement
Here are the different benefits offered to owners and lessees of affected Toyota vehicles:
| Settlement Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Reimbursement for Expenses | Owners who have already paid for air bag-related repairs in recalled vehicles can receive refunds. |
| Residual Distribution Payment | Owners of vehicles not covered by an air bag recall may qualify for up to $250, depending on remaining funds. |
| Extended Warranty Coverage | Toyota is offering an extended warranty for air bag control unit repairs to ensure future defects are addressed. |
| Comprehensive Inspection Program | Free inspections will be provided for vehicles to check and repair faulty air bag components. |
| Outreach and Notification Program | Toyota has committed to reaching out to affected owners to inform them about safety measures and recalls. |
The amount each person gets may depend on whether their car was recalled and how much they spent on repairs.
How to Claim Your Share
If you want to apply for benefits, follow these steps:
- Check If Your Car Qualifies: Use the VIN Lookup Tool on the settlement site.
- Collect Proof: Gather documents like repair receipts, proof you owned or leased the car, and any recall notices.
- Fill Out the Form: Complete the Settlement Claim Form online or send it by mail.
- Meet the Deadline: You must file your claim by December 16, 2026.
What Documents You’ll Need
Make sure you include these documents when you file your claim:
- Proof that you owned or leased the vehicle (e.g. title or registration)
- Copies of receipts or service records for airbag repairs
- Any official recall letters from Toyota (if you have them)
Key Dates You Should Know
| Event | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Exclusion/Objection Deadline | October 20, 2023 |
| Final Approval Hearing | November 16, 2023 |
| Claim Submission Deadline | December 16, 2026 (tentative |
After the court gave final approval, customers can now submit claims as long as they meet the deadline and paperwork requirements.
Where to Get Help or Ask Questions
If you need more information or help filing your claim, contact the settlement team here:
- Address: Kroll Settlement Administration LLC, P.O. Box 225391, New York, NY 10150-5391
- Email: info@airbagcontrolunitsettlement.com
- Phone: 833-747-5737
- Website: www.AirBagControlUnitSettlement.com
Legal Case Overview
This case is part of a larger group of lawsuits about airbag safety, involving several car brands. Toyota’s case is listed under:
- Case Name: In re: ZF-TRW Air Bag Control Units Product Liability Litigation
- Case Number: 2:19-ml-02905-JAK-MRW
- Court: U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
- Defendant: Toyota Motor Corporation
The $78.5 million deal helps affected customers without needing a long trial. Toyota drivers should check if they’re eligible and file their claims soon to avoid missing out on possible compensation.