TORRANCE, Calif. -

Toyota Motor Sales USA will recall more than 300,000 RAV4 and Highlander models to swap out the airbag sensor assembly, the company announced late last week.

Included in the voluntary safety recall are about 214,000 RAV4 units from model years 2007 and 2008, as well as 94,000 Highlander and Highlander HV units from model-year 2008.

“In the roll sensing curtain shield airbag system of the subject vehicles, there are two sensors in the airbag sensor assembly which are designed to detect vehicle roll angle,” the automaker explained in a statement.

“If one of these sensors malfunctions, the airbag warning light (malfunction indicator light) will illuminate and the roll detection system will be suspended,” management said. “However, the airbag remains available in the event of a side collision. If both sensors fail nearly simultaneously after initial airbag system check, the seat belt pretensioner and the curtain shield airbag could be inadvertently activated.”

Toyota stressed that the recall does not include any other vehicles from Toyota or Lexus and noted that only units sold in North America are affected. Apparently, for models outside North America, the roll-sensing curtain shield airbag system isn’t provided.  

Toyota plans to send out interim notification letters to affected owners, who should receive them next month. The notice will also be uploaded to Toyota’s website.