Daihatsu recalls 290,000 light trucks over battery defect
The recall covers three models, including the Hiace Truck, and follows similar large-scale actions by Suzuki and Nissan in recent months.
Daihatsu Industrial has submitted a recall notice to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism for more than 290,000 light trucks across three models, including the Hiace Truck. The submission, reported by NHK News Japan on 16 July 2026, addresses defects in certain battery components that may, in the worst-case scenario, prevent the engine from starting.
The recall highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny of vehicle safety standards in Japan. By lodging the notice with the transport ministry, Daihatsu is initiating a formal process to address the manufacturing defect. The specific nature of the battery component failure remains detailed in the manufacturer’s submission, with the primary risk identified as a total engine failure.
This action places Daihatsu within a wider context of significant automotive recalls in the domestic market. The announcement follows a recall by Suzuki on 9 July 2026, which affected over 500,000 units, and a subsequent action by Nissan on 26 June 2026 involving more than 600,000 vehicles. These sequential events suggest a concentrated period of safety interventions across major Japanese manufacturers.
The scope of the Daihatsu recall is substantial, covering a volume of vehicles comparable to previous industry-wide issues. While the Hiace Truck is explicitly named, the notice encompasses three distinct light truck models. The exact identity of the third model was not specified in the initial reporting, though the total unit count exceeds 290,000.
Regulatory bodies are expected to review the defect details and the manufacturer’s remediation plan. The focus remains on the potential for engine failure, a critical safety concern for commercial and utility vehicles. As the investigation proceeds, the interaction between Daihatsu and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will determine the timeline for repairs and consumer notifications.
