885,000 vehicles recalled by Toyota over airbag problem.

Toyota is recalling 885,000 vehicles over a defect that could prevent airbags from deploying in a crash.


According to Toyota the latest recall was caused by a potential short circuit that could cause airbag warning lights to turn on and, in some cases to disable the airbags themselves so that they might not deploy in an accident. In some instances, however, the airbags could also deploy inadvertently.
Toyota said the problem is due to water leaking out from the air conditioning condenser unit onto the airbag control module. The leak could also result in additional problems, potentially causing a short circuit that would disable the power-steering system. In this case, it could become difficult to turn a vehicle, especially at lower speeds.

Toyota said the issue has led to two "minor" injuries and no accidents.
The recall covers 2012 and 2013 Camry sedans and hybrids, the full-size Avalon sedan and hybrid and the Venza crossover.

The maker will directly notify owners in the weeks ahead and dealers will make repairs at no charge. The fix requires the application of sealant and a new cover to prevent water from leaking onto the airbag control module.

BUT: 

In some cases, the problem was caused by spiders.

 Sometimes, their webs can create a blockage in a drainage tube coming from the air conditioning condenser. That can cause water to drip down onto an airbag control module, causing a short circuit. That, in turn, could cause the airbag warning light to light up on the dashboard and it could even cause the driver's side airbag to deploy, something that happens with explosive force.
In some cases, there could also be a loss of power-steering force, Toyota said.

The vehicles involved are model year 2012 and 2013 Camrys, Venzas and Avalons, including hybrid versions of those cars.