Land Rover Halts Sales of Three SUVs Over Airbag Issue

Key Takeaways

• Land Rover is recalling over 250,000 vehicles due to a potential airbag deployment issue.
• The affected models include the 2020-2026 Defender, 2021-2026 Discovery, and 2022-2026 Range Rover.
• The issue is caused by corrosion on the driver’s airbag clockspring connector.
• The solution is a simple application of lubricant gel to protect the airbag connector terminals.
• Dealers have been instructed to stop selling the affected models until the issue is resolved.

What’s Causing the Airbag Issue?

In my experience, airbag issues are often complex and multifaceted. In this case, the problem lies with the driver’s airbag clockspring connector, which can corrode over time. This corrosion can cause the airbag to deploy improperly or not at all.

According to Land Rover, the issue was first identified in August 2025, when the company noticed an increase in warranty claims related to airbag warning lights. An investigation revealed oxides on the pins of some returned clockspring connectors, which can lead to an increased resistance in the driver’s airbag circuit.

How Many Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall affects a significant number of vehicles, with over 250,000 units impacted. The affected models include the 2020-2026 Defender, 2021-2026 Discovery, and 2022-2026 Range Rover.

It’s worth noting that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has formally announced the recall, and dealers have been instructed to stop selling the affected models until the issue is resolved.

What’s the Solution?

In a surprising twist, the solution to the airbag issue is a simple application of lubricant gel to protect the airbag connector terminals. Despite sounding straightforward, there’s no dealer-level remedy available at the moment, and owners will receive an initial notification letter in August.

When the lubricant gel is available, another letter will be sent out to owners, and the repair can be completed. It’s a relatively simple fix, but one that requires patience and attention to detail.

What Should Owners Do?

If you’re an owner of an affected Land Rover model, it’s essential to be aware of the issue and take action. The NHTSA recommends that owners heed the airbag warning light, which will illuminate at least 300-400 miles before a potential non-deployment.

While there have been no reports of non-deployment in the United States, it’s crucial to take the issue seriously and follow the recommended course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What models are affected by the recall?

A: The affected models include the 2020-2026 Defender, 2021-2026 Discovery, and 2022-2026 Range Rover.

Q: What’s causing the airbag issue?

A: The issue is caused by corrosion on the driver’s airbag clockspring connector.

Q: How can owners get their vehicles repaired?

A: Owners will receive an initial notification letter in August, and when the lubricant gel is available, another letter will be sent out. The repair can be completed at that time.