The 2011 Lexus GX460 has 4 recalls, all involving the front passenger airbag inflator, which can explode and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.
Every recall on this vehicle targets the same defect: the front passenger-side airbag inflator can rupture with excessive force. When the airbag deploys, the inflator housing can burst and scatter sharp metal shards toward the front passenger and anyone else nearby rather than inflating the bag safely. Prior repair attempts did not fully resolve the issue for all affected vehicles, which is why multiple campaigns exist covering overlapping model years and, in some filings, vehicles specifically registered in high-humidity states and territories such as Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Texas, and several U.S. territories where elevated moisture accelerates the problem. The consequence in every case is the same: a part meant to protect an occupant in a crash can instead become a source of serious or fatal injury.
At a glance
What can fail
Driver or passenger front airbag inflators previously replaced under an earlier recall may explode due to propellant breakdown after prolonged exposure to humidity, high temperature, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
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Dealers will replace the affected front airbag inflator, assembly, or sub-assembly depending on vehicle model.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation from long-term exposure to high humidity, temperature, and temperature cycling.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator or air bag assembly depending on your vehicle model.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator can rupture during deployment due to degradation from humidity and temperature exposure over time.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator or air bag assembly.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may rupture during a crash due to propellant breakdown after long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator or entire air bag assembly at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
