NHTSA Complaint #11707913 — 2024 TOYOTA TUNDRA

I am reporting a latent manufacturing defect in my 2024 Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX (Hybrid). This vehicle is equipped with the V35A-FTS engine, which has been officially recalled in non-hybrid Tundra models (NHTSA Recall 25V767) due to internal machining debris that causes catastrophic engine failure. Current Situation: Although my vehicle has not yet experienced a total engine seizure, it contains the exact same engine architecture and manufacturing origin as the recalled units. I am filing this complaint because Toyota has excluded the Hybrid models from the safety recall, citing that the electric motor acts as a safety backup. Safety Concern: My safety and the safety of my passengers are at risk because this "safety backup" claim is unproven and potentially false. Data from other owners suggests that a catastrophic V35A engine failure triggers a system-wide "Hybrid System Malfunction," which can disable all motive power, power steering, and braking assist. Driving a vehicle with a known "ticking time bomb" defect—where the engine could seize at highway speeds—creates a high-risk environment for a high-speed collision. Request for Action: I am urging the NHTSA to investigate the i-FORCE MAX Hybrid models and compel Toyota to expand Recall 25V767 to include all V35A-equipped hybrid vehicles. The exclusion of the hybrid model is a bypass of safety protocols that leaves owners like myself driving a vehicle with a documented manufacturing flaw that the manufacturer has already admitted requires a full engine replacement in other configurations. Inspection: The vehicle is available for inspection; however, the defect is internal and was caused during the manufacturing process, making it invisible to standard dealer inspections until the point of failure.