*Breakaway pins within the steering column may be damaged

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing is recalling 161 model year 2020-2021 Toyota Avalons, model year 2020 Avalon Hybrids, RAV4s and RAV4 Hybrids.

The automobile manufacturing company said the breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver’s airbag in a crash.

ConsumerConnect reports that an air bag that does not deploy as designed can increase the risk of injury.

In connection with what to do, Toyota will notify affected owners, and dealers will replace the steering column free of charge.

The current recall is expected to begin January 18, 2021.

Owners may contact Toyota Customer Service on (800) 331-4331, while Toyota’s number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.