Breaking: Saudi Arabia Recalls 33,250 Toyota and Lexus Vehicles

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Commerce has announced an urgent safety recall affecting 33,250 Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in the Kingdom. The recall, issued on April 12, 2026, targets a critical software fault that can disable the rearview camera, significantly increasing the risk of accidents while reversing.

Owners of popular 2022-2025 model year vehicles need to take immediate action. The repair is completely free, but ignoring this recall could put you and others at serious risk.

What Is the Recall For?

The recall addresses a software programming fault in the electronic control unit (ECU) for the parking assistance system. This glitch may prevent the rearview camera image from appearing on the display screen when the vehicle is shifted into reverse gear.

Without the camera feed, a driver's visibility directly behind the vehicle is severely limited. This creates a dangerous blind spot, especially in crowded Saudi streets, parking lots, or when children or objects are behind the car.

The fault is purely software-based, meaning it requires a reprogramming update at an authorized service center. No physical parts need replacement.

Which Toyota and Lexus Models Are Affected?

The recall spans a wide range of luxury and mainstream models from the 2022 through 2025 model years. If you own one of the following vehicles, you must check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) immediately.

Affected Toyota Models:

• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Toyota Crown
• Toyota Prado
• Toyota Mirai
• Toyota Highlander
• Toyota Camry

Affected Lexus Models:

• Lexus LS500 / LS500h
• Lexus LX600
• Lexus LC500
• Lexus RX
• Lexus UX
• Lexus NX
• Lexus ES

This list includes some of the best-selling and most trusted vehicles on Saudi roads, from the rugged Land Cruiser and Prado to the luxurious Lexus LS and the family-friendly Camry and Highlander.

What Should Saudi Owners Do Right Now?

The Saudi Ministry of Commerce has set up a clear process for owners. Here is your step-by-step guide.

First, check if your vehicle is included. Visit the official recall portal at https://recalls.sa and enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can find your VIN on the vehicle's registration card (istimara) or on a metal plate located on the driver's side dashboard, visible through the windshield.

If your vehicle is affected, contact your dealer immediately. Schedule a free software update at any authorized service center. The repair should take minimal time.

• Toyota owners: Contact Abdul Latif Jameel, the official distributor, at 8004400055.
• Lexus owners: Call the Lexus customer care line at 8001220022.

Do not delay this update. While the vehicle remains drivable, reversing without a functioning camera is a preventable safety hazard. The repair is provided at no cost to you.

Why This Recall Matters for GCC Drivers

This is a significant action by Saudi authorities, reflecting the serious nature of the defect. For GCC drivers, several factors make this recall particularly important.

Summer heat and urban density in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam mean parking is often tight and challenging. A working rear camera is not just a convenience—it's a critical safety tool to avoid costly dents or, worse, accidents with pedestrians.

These models are incredibly popular across the region. The Toyota Land Cruiser and Prado are icons of Middle Eastern roads, while Lexus has a strong foothold in the luxury segment. Thousands of families and businesses rely on these vehicles daily.

The proactive stance by the Ministry of Commerce shows a commitment to consumer protection and road safety standards within the Kingdom.

A Global Issue With a Local Solution

This Saudi recall echoes similar actions taken globally. In the United States, Toyota recently recalled approximately 144,200 Lexus NX, RX, and TX models (2023-2025) for an identical rear camera software issue.

The fact that the problem has been identified and a fix is ready means the solution is straightforward. Saudi owners are fortunate that the local distributor has been mandated to provide the repair free of charge and that the process is now clearly publicized.

What Happens Next?

If you own one of the affected models, your next move is simple. Check your VIN today. Do not assume your vehicle is safe because you haven't noticed a problem—the fault may be intermittent.

Spread the word to family and friends who drive these models. Safety on Saudi roads is a shared responsibility.

Authorized dealers have been notified and should have the necessary software tools ready. The repair involves connecting the vehicle to a diagnostic computer and uploading the corrected software to the parking assist ECU. Once completed, your rearview camera functionality will be restored to full, reliable operation.

This recall serves as a reminder for all drivers to ensure their vehicle's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including cameras and sensors, are always in proper working order. It's a small step that makes our roads safer for everyone.