Residents of New York City, particularly in zip codes 10033, 10034, and 10040, are being cautioned about a notable increase in Toyota Highlander thefts. These thefts not only cover the automobile itself but extend to specific parts such as rims and tires. The New York Police Department (NYPD) is proactively urging car owners in these neighborhoods to adopt anti-theft measures including steering wheel locks and adding GPS tracking to their vehicles, as reported by CBS News New York.
What makes the Highlander an attractive target to thieves is pinpointed by experts as the keyless ignition system, which seemingly exhibits certain vulnerabilities, a situation similar to the widely reported thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles in 2023, a phenomenon ignited by social media challenges demonstrating how those models could be started with nothing more than a USB cord, according to an NYPD statement, and local officials, Mayor Eric Adams implored social platforms to take more responsibility in halting the spread of such viral challenges.
Toyota faces another setback with over 90,000 vehicles being recalled over issues with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that potentially impair driver visibility, as per a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Sept. 4. Specifically, the recall affects selected Toyota bZ4X, Lexus RZ, and Subaru Solterra models from 2023 to 2025 due to the risk posed by a software error which could impede the windshield defroster's ability to remove ice, fog, or frost, thereby escalating the likelihood of accidents, as reported by NBC New York.
Vehicle owners who find their cars listed among the recalled models are to expect notification letters by October 20, instructing them on the necessary steps to remedy the defect; Toyota’s customer service number has been made available for concerned owners, and the NHTSA also remains a resource for the public to seek further information or to report safety concerns, repairs including a software update and an inspection, and if necessary, the replacement of the electrical compressor will be provided at no cost to the vehicle owner.
