Toyota is recalling 11,200 Scion iQ models because of airbag sensor cables that could become damaged and set off the front passenger airbag inadvertently, the company said in a statement Wednesday. Both 2012 and 2013 models are affected.

The sensor cables run along the seat rails and could be damaged if a loose object were to fall underneath the seat and become stuck while the seat is moved forward or backward, Toyota said. The damaged cables could then send false signals to either deploy the airbags inadvertently or cause them not to deploy at all. The seatbelt pre-tensioners, which cinch the belt buckle extremely tight in an accident, could also fail to operate correctly.

These airbag sensors, called the "occupant classification system," detect weight placed on the front passenger seat and can determine whether to deactivate the front airbag for a baby seat or small child. For a microcar, the iQ manages to fit 11 standard airbags -- the most of any production vehicle to date -- including the industry's first rear window airbag and driver's seat cushion airbag. None of the other airbags are affected.

Dealers will inspect the cables starting in December and fit protective covers over them, Toyota said. Affected owners can contact Scion at 1-866-707-2466.

[Source: Toyota]