The Vietnam Register has approved Toyota Vietnam’s recall plan for the compact Wigo model to address a potential braking system malfunction.

A total of 3,591 Wigo units, imported from Indonesia and manufactured between February 13, 2023, and July 16, 2024, are affected by the recall.

According to the Vietnam Register, Toyota Wigo vehicles from the 2023-2024 model years may experience reduced braking efficiency under specific conditions. Drivers who frequently brake at low speeds - such as in heavy traffic or mountainous areas - could find that the brake booster fails to maintain adequate vacuum pressure, potentially diminishing braking performance and endangering occupants.

To resolve the issue, Toyota will update the brake control software on the affected vehicles. The process is expected to take just over 30 minutes per vehicle.

The recall program will be conducted at all authorized Toyota dealerships across Vietnam from March 14, 2025, to the end of 2028.

Wigo’s struggles in the Vietnamese Market

Despite being Toyota’s most budget-friendly offering in Vietnam, the Wigo has struggled with sales. The base model was priced at 405 million VND ($16,200), while a cheaper manual variant (365 million VND or $14,600) was discontinued in 2024.

The Wigo competes in the A-segment alongside models like the Hyundai Grand i10 and KIA Morning but has underperformed in sales. In 2024, only 1,675 units were sold - averaging 130-140 units per month - far behind the Hyundai Grand i10 (5,831 units) but ahead of the KIA Morning (771 units).

Toyota Alphard also recalled

In addition to the Wigo, Toyota Vietnam has issued a recall for the 2020 Alphard MPV.

The recall affects 10 Alphard units produced in Japan between November 2, 2020, and November 21, 2020. These vehicles require a front hood panel replacement due to potential deformation caused by temperature fluctuations.

If left unaddressed, this issue could lead to cracks and loosening of the hood panel, increasing the risk of detachment while driving.

Toyota will replace the hood panel for affected vehicles, with repairs expected to take approximately 30 minutes per unit.

Unlike the Wigo, the Alphard is one of the most expensive models in Toyota’s Vietnam lineup. The premium MPV is fully imported from Japan and is available in two variants, including a hybrid model. Prices range from 4.37 to 4.475 billion VND ($175,000-$179,000).

Hoang Hiep