by Chris Chilton
- Toyota recalls 55,405 US hybrids over a loose inverter bolt risk.
- Camry and Corolla Cross Hybrid models from MY25 to MY26.
- Loose inverter bolt could trigger limp mode or fire suddenly.
Toyota has issued a recall that proves once again how even the smallest parts can cause the biggest headaches. More than 55,000 hybrid vehicles in the US are being told to return to sender because a single bolt may not have been tightened properly.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the problem lies in the inverter that manages power flow in Toyota’s hybrid system. If the inverter bolt wasn’t torqued correctly at the factory, it can lead to incomplete electrical contact at the inverter terminal.
Also: Over A Million Toyotas Recalled After Drivers Report Seeing Absolutely Nothing
In plain English that could mean warning lights, reduced power, or in two worst case scenarios, a sudden loss of drive while you’re cruising along, minding your own business, or a fire.
The recall affects 55,405 of Toyota’s popular Camry Hybrid, and the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Just over 51,600 MY25-26 Camry sedans make up the bulk of the recall, with the remaining 3,761 accounted for by MY26 Corolla Cross SUVs.
Denso Dropped the Ball
Each vehicle is fitted with an inverter manufactured in the US at Denso’s Tennessee plant, though the Camry and Corolla combustion engines the inverters work with are different.
The Camry uses a 2.5-liter inline four and has a total system ouptut of 225-232 hp (228-235 PS) depending on whether the car is FWD or AWD, while the Corolla Cross gets a 2.0-liter engine making 196 hp (199 PS).
Toyota says it knows of no crashes or injuries linked to the issue so far, which is the good news, although it has received 34 Toyota Field Technical Reports and 15 warranty claims.
The less good news is that the fix is still being finalized. Once it is ready, dealers will inspect the inverter and tighten or replace the bolt as needed, free of charge of course. Owners will be notified directly once Toyota is ready to roll.
This recall is also a reminder of just how complex modern cars have become. When everything works, they are brilliant. When one tiny bolt is off by a fraction, things can unravel quickly.