Southeast toyota/audiovox/theft deterrent system
Defect Summary
Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles, mini vans and passenger vehicles equipped with a theft deterrent systems (tds) supplied by audiovox corporation and distributed by southeast toyota distributors, inc. in the states of alabama, florida, georgia, north and south carolina. the alarm wiring harness plugs into the vehicle's ignition switch and the vehicle's ignition switch wiring harness plugs into the alarm harness to complete the circuit. a percentage of the female terminals used in the alarm connector were found to be defective, causing an 'open circuit' condition when mated to the male ignition switch terminals.
Safety Consequence
This condition can cause intermittent performance of the vehicle's electrical components such as the dash warning lights and/or hvac fan speed controls. also, the vehicle may not run smoothly and could stall.
Corrective Action
Dealers will inspect the date code label on the security system harness and any displaying the manufacturing/final date code will be replaced with newly produced harnesses. the date codes are: rav4 - 6/24/98, 6/25/98, 6/26/98; sienna - 6/25/98, 6/26/98; and avalon - 6/30/98, 7/1/98, 8/31/98, 9/1/98, 9/2/98, and 9/3/98.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Toyota Motor Corporation or involving Electrical System.
FAQ: Recall 98V278000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 98V278000?
NHTSA recall 98V278000 was issued by Toyota Motor Corporation on October 19, 1998. It addresses: Southeast toyota/audiovox/theft deterrent system. The recall affects approximately 1,960 vehicles, with the defect involving the Electrical System component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Toyota Motor Corporation dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 98V278000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.