Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus are facing scrutiny following a Which? investigation that revealed some of their hybrid models can trap occupants inside due to battery faults. The issue is particularly pronounced in Lexus vehicles equipped with the company's "e-Latch" system, which replaces traditional door handles with electronic release buttons.
When the car's 12-volt auxiliary battery fails or runs flat, the e-Latch system can lose power, rendering the electronic door buttons inoperable. While a mechanical backup system exists, many owners have reported being unaware of its function and have resorted to breaking windows to escape.
Customers have also indicated that dealerships have advised them that their cars require at least two hours of weekly driving to maintain adequate battery charge. Which? is calling for the manufacturers to replace faulty batteries free of charge and to provide clearer safety instructions for operating the doors in case of malfunction.
Battery Issues and Trapped Occupants
Since May, approximately 270 motorists have contacted Which? with reports of 12-volt battery problems, with over three-quarters of these incidents involving Lexus or Toyota vehicles. The e-Latch system, which has previously been recognized for its safety features, including preventing collisions with cyclists and pedestrians by preventing doors from opening unexpectedly, is now at the center of these concerns.
According to the Which? Car Reliability Survey, nearly 30% of Lexus LBX owners reported a battery fault in the past year. Similarly, almost two-fifths of Toyota Yaris Cross drivers experienced battery issues, a rate nearly four times the average for hybrid cars.
One Lexus NX owner, who wished to remain anonymous, described being trapped with two other adults and two dogs after the car's 12V battery failed twice. Unaware of the manual override, they were forced to smash a window to exit. The owner stated that the dealership did not offer a free battery replacement or cover the cost of the broken window, which they ultimately paid for out-of-pocket.
Mary Mitchell recounted an incident where her grandchildren were locked inside her Lexus LBX after the vehicle failed to start. After managing to open a window to let the children out, she later encountered the same problem a year later. A Lexus dealership reportedly blamed her driving habits, suggesting the car was unsuitable for low-mileage use and recommending weekly two-hour journeys, a suggestion she found unrealistic.
Manufacturer Response and Manual Overrides
Lexus and Toyota have acknowledged the issue and have published online guidance on managing battery-related problems and operating the electronic door systems during power loss. A spokesperson for the brands stated that they take customer feedback seriously and are committed to continuous improvement. This includes introducing higher-capacity batteries, enhancing connected services, and improving battery diagnostic processes.
Regarding the e-Latch system, the companies confirmed that manual override mechanisms exist for use in case of electrical power loss. Instructions are available in owner's manuals and through dealerships. Lexus plans to create new customer-facing guidance on safely entering and exiting vehicles during power outages and will re-communicate this information to its retailer network.
Broader Context of Electronic Door Systems
These concerns arise as China prepares to implement new laws in 2027 banning hidden or pop-out door handles on new vehicles due to safety concerns. Such handles, popularized by Tesla, have faced criticism for freezing in winter and failing to operate after accidents, hindering emergency access. The new Chinese regulations mandate that door handles on new models must have both interior and exterior mechanical releases, a move that could influence global automotive design standards.