Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrids recalled over power brake assist issue

Toyota is recalling 42,199 Corolla Cross Hybrid crossovers to address a software issue that could cause power braking to cut out while going around corners.

The recall includes vehicles from the first two model years of production for the hybrid—2023 and 2024 (the Corolla Cross was introduced for 2022 without the hybrid powertrain). According to the NHTSA filing Monday, these vehicles may have faulty software in their skid-control units, which manage both braking and regenerative braking.

The software may call for inadequate brake-fluid pressure when the brake pedal is pressed while cornering. That lack of pressure may mean less stopping power, lengthening stopping distances and making avoiding obstacles more difficult. Drivers may also notice a hard pedal feel, according to the NHTSA.

Toyota estimates that 100% of the recalled vehicles have this software issue. The control unit employing the errant software is part of a brake-actuator assembly supplied by Bosch, and while other Toyota models do have actuators from the same supplier with similar software, Toyota is still confirming whether the same loss of braking power can occur in these other models.

Dealers will update the skid-control unit software free of charge. Toyota plans to mail owner notification letters November 5. Owners can also contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331 or visit Toyota’s recall hub for more information. Toyota’s reference number for this recall is 24TA11.

Built at an Alabama factory jointly operated with Mazda, the Corolla Cross Hybrid brings Toyota’s hybrid-first strategy to the subcompact crossover segment. It boasts 42 mpg combined with its standard all-wheel drive, something non-hybrid rivals like the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona can’t match.