Toyota recalls about 591,000 U.S. vehicles for instrument-panel display failure

Toyota Motor Corp. is issuing a recall for 591,377 vehicles in the United States after investigators found a software error in the instrument panel that can prevent the display from showing critical information, potentially increasing the risk of a crash or injury, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Thursday. The recall covers several popular models, including the RAV4, Venza, Highlander, Tacoma and GR Corolla. The NHTSA says at startup the instrument panel may fail to display speed, brake system status, and tire-pressure warnings, which can hinder a driver's ability to monitor the vehicle’s performance and respond to warnings in a timely manner.

The problem is tied to the instrument panel software and can occur when the vehicle starts up, according to the agency. If the display fails to illuminate or omits key indicators, drivers may not know their current speed, whether the braking system is functioning properly, or if tire pressures are outside safe ranges. In such cases, the potential for a crash or injury could increase, particularly in scenarios requiring rapid attention to vehicle status. The recall applies to models that are among the best-selling in the U.S. market, reflecting the broader shift toward software-driven dashboards in modern vehicles. The NHTSA’s listing does not detail the exact remedy, but recalls of this type typically involve a software update or reprogramming of the instrument cluster.

Owners of affected vehicles should anticipate recall notices via mail or a check of the NHTSA recall database to verify whether their car is included in the action. When the remedy is determined, dealerships will perform the necessary software updates or replacements to restore proper display of critical information. In the meantime, drivers are advised to remain vigilant about supporting warnings that may be displayed elsewhere in the vehicle, such as a dedicated warning light on the dashboard or an advisory in the vehicle’s information system.

This recall underscores the ongoing role of software in modern cars, where dashboards and driver-assistance features rely on electronic displays that can fail if code or startup sequences malfunction. While regulators continue to monitor gear shifts toward increasingly digital cockpits, recalls of instrument panels highlight the safety implications of software-driven components that control how drivers perceive essential information while behind the wheel. Further updates from the NHTSA or Toyota are expected as the company finalizes the remedy and as affected owners respond to notification.