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RecallGazette

Vehicle problems, recalls & safety intelligence

Lexus CT Hybrid 1998–2014technical service bulletin

Bulletin L-SB-0143-11 Rev · NHTSA communication 10132074 · issued Nov 10, 2013

Technical service bulletin
communication type
Air Bags
component
1998–2014
model years
60
vehicle entries

Official summary

Beginning in 1998, Lexus introduced side airbags as optional equipment. Lexus does NOT recommend replacement of original seat covers with non-Lexus leather or other seat cover materials on vehicles due to the following: Seat covers NOT recommended by Lexus may affect side airbag performance, in general or in part, during an accident. Modifications that negatively affect side airbag performance can result in severe occupant injuries. Seat covers are an integral part of this safety system. Replacing fabric seat covers with non-Lexus leather or other seat cover materials may compromise the effect

What a TSB means. Technical service bulletins are repair guidance manufacturers send to dealers — they are not recalls, and repairs are not automatically free (warranty extensions are an exception worth checking). The full document is available via NHTSA’s vehicle lookup.