Toyota is recalling more than 55,000 hybrid vehicles due to a fire risk that could leave drivers stranded — or worse. The safety recall affects some of the automaker’s newest and most popular hybrid models, adding to recent quality concerns for the Japanese manufacturer.
The company announced on December 16 that an improperly tightened bolt inside the hybrid system inverter could work itself loose, potentially causing an open circuit. This seemingly small defect creates serious consequences: vehicles could suddenly lose power while driving, dramatically increasing crash risk, or in more severe cases, start a fire.
Which vehicles are affected? The recall covers 55,405 vehicles in total, including 2025-2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid and 2026 Corolla Cross Hybrid models. The vast majority — over 50,000 — are Camry Hybrids, one of Toyota’s bestselling vehicles in North America.
According to Toyota’s safety notice, “a bolt inside the inverter in the hybrid powertrain can become loose and could lead to a loss of motive power or could lead to a fire when the vehicle is on.” The company hasn’t specified whether any accidents, injuries or fires have been reported in connection with the defect.
The timing is particularly unfortunate for Toyota, which has been aggressively expanding its hybrid lineup to meet growing consumer demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. The Camry Hybrid, recently redesigned for 2025, has been a critical part of the company’s electrification strategy.
Owners won’t receive immediate notification of the recall. Toyota says affected customers will be contacted by mid-February 2026, though the company hasn’t detailed what the fix will entail or how long repairs might take. The delay in notification raises questions about whether drivers should continue using these vehicles in the meantime.
This isn’t the first time Toyota has faced fire risks in its hybrid systems. The automaker has previously recalled various models for battery and inverter issues that could lead to similar hazards.
For now, Toyota hasn’t issued a “do not drive” advisory, but concerned owners can contact Toyota customer service or check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) against the company’s recall database to confirm if their vehicle is affected.
As hybrid vehicles grow more popular amid rising fuel costs and environmental concerns, the recall serves as a reminder that the complex powertrains still face engineering challenges — even from a manufacturer with decades of hybrid experience.
