Toyota Class Action Settlement: The $78.5 million Toyota Class Action Settlement was established to compensate Toyota owners and lessees impacted by defective airbag control units. These defects could prevent airbags from deploying during accidents, increasing the risk of injury.
This article provides detailed information about the lawsuit, including the vehicles involved, the benefits offered, and how eligible individuals can submit their claims. It also outlines key deadlines and contact details to help ensure you receive your compensation if eligible.
Overview Table
| Key Information | Details |
| Settlement Amount | $78.5 million |
| Affected Vehicle Models | Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Avalon, Avalon HV, Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia |
| Manufacturing Years | 2011-2019 |
| Benefits Offered | Reimbursement, residual payments, extended warranty, inspections |
| Claim Submission Deadline | December 16, 2026 |
| Settlement Website | AirBagControlUnitSettlement.com |
| Contact Email | [email protected] |
| Contact Phone | 833-747-5737 |
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Background of the Toyota Air Bag Control Unit Lawsuit
- Toyota Vehicles Covered in the Settlement
- Allegations and Safety Concerns Raised in the Lawsuit
- Breakdown of Settlement Benefits for Affected Toyota Owners
- Steps to File a Claim for Settlement Compensation
- Important Dates for Toyota Class Action Settlement
- How to Contact the Settlement Administrator
- Case Details and Legal Proceedings
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Background of the Toyota Air Bag Control Unit Lawsuit
The Toyota Class Action Settlement was initiated after certain Toyota vehicles were found to have faulty airbag control units. These units could fail due to electrical overstress, preventing airbags from deploying during collisions. The defect posed a significant safety risk, as airbags are designed to reduce injuries during accidents.
Although Toyota denied any wrongdoing, the company agreed to the $78.5 million settlement to resolve the allegations and avoid prolonged litigation. The settlement aims to provide compensation for repair expenses, extend warranty coverage, and offer free vehicle inspections to ensure safety.
Toyota Vehicles Covered in the Settlement
The settlement applies to specific Toyota models manufactured between 2011 and 2019. Current and former owners and lessees of the following vehicles may qualify for compensation:
- 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)
To confirm eligibility, vehicle owners should use the VIN Lookup Tool available on the settlement’s official website.
Allegations and Safety Concerns Raised in the Lawsuit
The lawsuit alleged that defective airbag control units in certain Toyota vehicles could fail, leading to airbags not deploying during crashes. This defect increased the risk of serious injury for both drivers and passengers. Key concerns highlighted in the lawsuit include:
- Airbags failing to deploy during high-impact collisions.
- Internal defects in control units causing malfunction.
- Higher risk of severe injuries due to non-functioning airbags.
- Allegations that Toyota delayed recalling affected vehicles despite awareness of the defect.
Toyota has not admitted liability but agreed to settle the case to support affected customers and improve vehicle safety.
Breakdown of Settlement Benefits for Affected Toyota Owners
Under the settlement, eligible Toyota owners can receive various benefits, including reimbursement for repair costs, residual payments, extended warranty coverage, and free vehicle inspections.
- Reimbursement for Expenses: Owners who paid for airbag-related repairs can receive refunds for their expenses.
- Residual Distribution Payment: Owners of vehicles not covered by a recall may qualify for up to $250, depending on available funds.
- Extended Warranty Coverage: Toyota offers extended warranty coverage specifically for airbag control unit repairs.
- Comprehensive Inspection Program: Eligible vehicles can receive free inspections and repairs to address airbag defects.
- Outreach and Notification Program: Toyota will notify affected owners to ensure they are aware of recalls and safety measures.
The exact compensation amount depends on repair costs, vehicle recall status, and the remaining funds after reimbursements.
Steps to File a Claim for Settlement Compensation
Eligible Toyota owners must submit a claim form and provide supporting documents to receive settlement benefits. Follow these steps to file your claim:
- Verify Vehicle Eligibility: Use the VIN Lookup Tool on the settlement website to check if your vehicle qualifies.
- Gather Required Documentation: Collect documents such as repair receipts, proof of vehicle ownership, and recall notices.
- Fill Out the Claim Form: Complete the official Settlement Claim Form either online or by mail.
- Submit Your Claim Before the Deadline: Ensure you submit your claim by December 16, 2026.
Required Documents for Submission:
- Proof of Vehicle Ownership: This can include vehicle registration documents, lease agreements, or titles.
- Receipts for Repairs: Submit repair invoices or service records if claiming reimbursement.
- Recall Notices: Provide recall notifications from Toyota if your vehicle was recalled.
Failure to submit a valid claim by the deadline will result in the loss of compensation eligibility.
Important Dates for Toyota Class Action Settlement
Eligible customers should take note of the following key dates to avoid missing any deadlines:
- Exclusion/Objection Deadline: October 20, 2023
- Final Approval Hearing: November 16, 2023
- Claim Submission Deadline: December 16, 2026 (tentative)
Once the final approval hearing is completed, eligible individuals can proceed with their claims and receive compensation.
How to Contact the Settlement Administrator
For additional information or assistance regarding the Toyota Class Action Settlement, contact the settlement administrator using the details below:
- Address: Toyota Air Bag Control Unit Settlement, c/o Kroll Settlement Administration LLC, P.O. Box 225391, New York, NY 10150-5391
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 833-747-5737
- Website: AirBagControlUnitSettlement.com
Case Details and Legal Proceedings
The lawsuit is part of a broader multi-district litigation (MDL) involving several automakers accused of manufacturing vehicles with defective airbag control units. The key case details are as follows:
- 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
While Toyota has not admitted liability, the settlement aims to resolve claims efficiently, providing compensation and safety benefits to affected vehicle owners.
Conclusion
The $78.5 million Toyota Class Action Settlement offers financial compensation and extended warranties to Toyota owners impacted by defective airbag control units. If you own or lease an eligible vehicle, ensure you verify your eligibility, gather the required documents, and submit your claim before the deadline of December 16, 2026.
If you have any questions or need assistance, contact the settlement administrator using the provided details. Share this article with other Toyota owners who may benefit from this settlement, and feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts or experiences.
FAQs
What is the deadline to file a claim for the Toyota Class Action Settlement?
The deadline to submit your claim is December 16, 2026.
How can I check if my Toyota vehicle is eligible for compensation?
Use the VIN Lookup Tool on the settlement’s official website to confirm your vehicle’s eligibility.
What benefits are available through the Toyota Class Action Settlement?
Eligible owners can receive reimbursements, residual payments, extended warranties, and free vehicle inspections.
What documents do I need to submit with my claim?
Required documents include proof of vehicle ownership, repair receipts, and recall notices if applicable.
How do I contact the settlement administrator if I have questions?
You can contact the settlement administrator by email at [email protected] or call 833-747-5737.
