Toyota Oz recalls almost 100,000 RAV4s

Toyota Australia has recalled 98,664 RAV4 vehicles built between August 2005 and November 2012 to repair a problem with both outboard rear seat belts that could be rendered useless in a high-speed frontal impact.

Despite the fact all affected vehicles were sold at least three years ago – and in some cases more than a decade ago – the world's biggest car-maker says it won't be in a position to begin local rectification work until June.

That's because the Australian recall, which does not affect the latest fourth-generation RAV4 released in February 2013, is part of a global safety recall affecting a number of countries including North America, where 1.124 million RAV4s are affected.

"There is a possibility that, in the event of a high-speed frontal collision, the seat belt webbing could contact a portion of the metal seat cushion frame, become cut and separate," said Toyota.

"If this occurs, the seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, which could increase the risk of injury to the occupant."

Toyota says there have been no accidents or injuries in Australia as a result of the condition, which will be rectified by adding resin protection covers to the metal seat cushion frames.

"These parts are presently being prepared and, due to the number of vehicles impacted globally, it is anticipated that sufficient parts will be available to commence recall repairs by June this year," said Toyota Australia.

Toyota says it will advise affected owners to bring their vehicle to a Toyota dealer when the parts become available. The repairs will take about an hour and will be conducted free of charge.

Before then in early March, it will write to affected owners advising them to take "additional care" while driving. In the meantime, affected owners can contact the Toyota recall campaign helpline for more information, on 1800 987 366.

"Toyota takes the safety of Toyota owners seriously, as soon as we identified the issue we decided to inform owners, this allows additional care to be taken when driving," said the company.

"The potential for this condition can only occur during high speed frontal collisions. Toyota always recommends drivers operate their vehicles carefully and safely to minimize the potential for vehicle accidents."