Toyota has recalled more than 30,000 of its most popular family two- and four-wheel drives, after the detection of an alarming fault.

The recall, issued by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts on Thursday, affects several Toyota Kluger models – amid fears part of the front of the car might fall off.

“The lower resin bumper cover may detach if damaged during vehicle operation,” the recall notice states.

“If the lower bumper detaches, it could cause a potential road hazard and increase the risk of an accident and serious injury or death to vehicle occupants and/or other road users.”

The recall applies to the following models, built between 2021-2023:

• Kluger Hybrid (AXUH78) and Kluger Petrol (TXUA70/75 & GSU70/75);
• and includes these variants: Kluger Hybrid AWD 2.5-litre, Kluger Petrol 2WD 2.4-litre, Kluger Petrol 2WD 3.5-litre, Kluger Petrol AWD 2.4L, Kluger Petrol AWD 3.5-litre.

Toyota Klugers are some of Australia’s best-selling vehicles. DITRDCA said 30,205 were affected across the country by the latest notice.

Toyota will contact affected owners in writing, asking them to make an appointment so a dealer can inspect and rectify the fault. Any related work will be done for free.

Wednesday’s recall comes less than a month after a similar notice was issued about an airbag fault on some 2023 Klugers.

“The driver side airbag wiring harness connection may become loose over time. As a result, the airbag warning light will illuminate and the driver side airbag will not deploy,” that recall notice said.

Kluger drivers who want further information should contact the Toyota Recall Assist helpline on 1800 987 366 (Monday to Friday, 8am6pm AEDT).