Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2014 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Toyota, Lexus expanding Takata airbag recall, re-notifying customers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2014/10/20/toyota-lexus-takata-airbag-recall-expands/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/10/20/toyota-lexus-takata-airbag-recall-expands/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/10/20/toyota-lexus-takata-airbag-recall-expands/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota Corolla

Toyota is re-notifying owners and expanding its Takata airbag inflator recall for some regions. The renewed campaign covers 247,000 examples of the Toyota Corolla, Matrix, Sequoia, Tundra and Lexus SC430 that are located in southern Florida, along the Gulf Coast, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan and American Samoa. All of the models come from the 2001-2004 model years and have potentially faulty Takata-made inflators on the front passenger side. According to the company, testing shows the problem warrants "immediate action," and its press release says, "this action intensifies Toyota's efforts to reach customers and remedy previously recalled vehicles, and a small number of newly included vehicles."

According to Toyota, it submitted some recalled inflators to Takata for testing, and it found a high probability of rupturing in high humidity areas. The automaker said it had no reports yet of injuries or fatalities related to the problem.

This is Toyota's third inflator recall this year. In June, it called in for repair the same vehicles from the 2003-2005 model years in high-humidity areas, and it conducted a separate campaign nationwide for the parts in additional models. In April 2013, it also announced a fix campaign for 1.73-million vehicles worldwide for the same issue.

To fix the problem, Toyota will send a letter to owners this week, and dealers will replace the inflator. If the part isn't ready, dealers will deactivate the passenger side airbag and will advise owners that no one should sit there until repaired. Scroll down to read Toyota's full release.

Continue reading Toyota, Lexus expanding Takata airbag recall, re-notifying customers

Toyota, Lexus expanding Takata airbag recall, re-notifying customers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Oct 2014 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbaglexuslexus sctakatatoyotatoyota corollatoyota matrixtoyota recalltoyota safetytoyota sequoiatoyota tundraMon, 20 Oct 2014 12:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20981150/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2014/10/20/toyota-lexus-takata-airbag-recall-expands/20981150/article-detail.xml 20981150 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1271x845+3+0/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/midas/b36bd7ab6e1465c5cbbdb25e5fc0fbf/200949810/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1271x845+3+0/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/midas/b36bd7ab6e1465c5cbbdb25e5fc0fbf/200949810/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla.jpg <![CDATA[177k Toyota Camry Hybrids being recalled for brake issue [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2014/08/11/177k-toyota-camry-hybrid-recalled-brake-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/08/11/177k-toyota-camry-hybrid-recalled-brake-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/08/11/177k-toyota-camry-hybrid-recalled-brake-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Toyota Camry Hybrid Limited Service CampaignUPDATE: The limited service campaign issued by Toyota, and reported on by Consumer Reports, is actually unchanged from our earlier report in July. New reports led us to believe that there was further action regarding the Camry Hybrid brake fluid reservoir issue, but ultimately the same campaign was at the root of it. We apologize for indicating otherwise.

It looks like Consumer Reports might be getting part of what it wants regarding the Toyota Camry Hybrid and its braking system. Toyota is issuing what it calls a limited service campaign, rather than a full recall, covering about 177,500 of the hybrid sedans from the 2007 through 2011 model years because of an issue with the cars' brake fluid reservoirs.

The models have a filter separating two chambers of the brake fluid reservoir, and the part can get clogged over time. If this happens, the fluid level in one of the chambers can get too low and eventually cause the power assist to fail. There are multiple warning lights on the dashboard that illuminate over time if the filter gets obstructed, though. The company is replacing the entire reservoir with an improved unit, and the fix takes about two hours to perform.

Consumer Reports recently began asking for a recall on these models for the potentially clogged filters. The magazine also reported a second issue with the ABS brake actuator that could lead to a difficult to depress brake, but Toyota has increased the warranty on the part to 10 years or 150,000 miles.

Toyota spokesperson Cindy Knight explained why this isn't a full recall to Autoblog via email. "If Toyota determines that an issue presents an 'unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety,' per the Safety Act, the company will conduct a safety recall," she said. It doesn't think this case rises to that level, but it's still notifying owners, and they "are provided a free repair," until June 30, 2017. If they already paid to have the problem fixed, it's possible to have the money reimbursed. Check out the gallery for all of the details.

177k Toyota Camry Hybrids being recalled for brake issue [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Aug 2014 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limited service campaigntoyotatoyota camrytoyota camry hybridtoyota recallMon, 11 Aug 2014 16:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20944926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2014/08/11/177k-toyota-camry-hybrid-recalled-brake-issue/20944926/article-detail.xml 20944926 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1053x699+132+82/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/midas/167171e336a943068b77a50d0ec4f5a2/200562511/toyota-camry-hybrid-04-1_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1053x699+132+82/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/midas/167171e336a943068b77a50d0ec4f5a2/200562511/toyota-camry-hybrid-04-1.jpg <![CDATA[Legal approach in $1.2 billion Toyota settlement could impact handling of GM recall cases]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2014/03/26/gm-legal-fraud-federal-case/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/03/26/gm-legal-fraud-federal-case/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/03/26/gm-legal-fraud-federal-case/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Attorney General Eric Holder

In the past, if an automaker did something wrong, they were usually prosecuted by the US government through something called the TREAD Act. Short for Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability and Documentation Act, it basically requires automakers to report recalls in other countries, along with any and all serious injuries or deaths, to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Failing to report or attempting to conceal anything when there's been a death or serious injury constitutes a criminal liability. The idea is that this setup puts the onus on manufacturers to keep NHTSA apprised of safety related issues before they become a problem in the US, thereby allowing the regulator to better protect consumers.

In theory, it sounds like a relatively airtight set of rules for dealing with misbehaving automakers. That didn't stop the US Department of Justice from ignoring TREAD in its prosecution of Toyota's handling of the unintended acceleration recall, though. The result of this new approach, which charged Toyota with wire fraud, was a $1.2 billion settlement. Now, the wire-fraud approach could be used for the expected case between the US government and General Motors, based on the statements of Attorney General Eric Holder, who specifically mentioned "similarly situated companies" when discussing Toyota.

In order to make wire fraud stick, US prosecutors would need to prove criminal intent. As explained by Reuters, that means there needs to be evidence that GM actively misled either regulators like NHTSA, or the general public, all in a bid to maintain sales. In Toyota's case, it admitted to misleading both consumers and regulators.

Considering GM's rather tenuous position in regards to the recall, we don't think prosecutors will have much trouble. Whether GM comes out and admits to any deception, though, remains an open question. Of course, if anything new develops in this case, we'll be sure to let you know.

Legal approach in $1.2 billion Toyota settlement could impact handling of GM recall cases originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Mar 2014 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>department of justiceeric holdergmgm recalltoyotatoyota recallwire fraudWed, 26 Mar 2014 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20856406/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2014/03/26/gm-legal-fraud-federal-case/20856406/article-detail.xml 20856406 http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/5a98048ccfc00b12fffcb605f71c1141/eric-holder_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/5a98048ccfc00b12fffcb605f71c1141/eric-holder.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota reaches $1.2B unintended acceleration settlement in criminal probe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2014/03/19/toyota-1.2-billion-unintended-acceleration-criminal-probe-settlement/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/03/19/toyota-1.2-billion-unintended-acceleration-criminal-probe-settlement/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/03/19/toyota-1.2-billion-unintended-acceleration-criminal-probe-settlement/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota Motor Corp. Prius Vehicle Images As The Company Recalls Most Priuses Ever Sold to Fix Software Flaw

UPDATE: Just like that, Toyota has released an official statement confirming its $1.2-billion dollar settlement with the US Attorney's Office. Our story has been updated to reflect this development and the automaker's official statement has been added below.

Toyota has reached a settlement over the criminal probe into its unintended acceleration problems, and the outcome is more expensive than first expected. The Japanese automaker has agreed to pay $1.2 billion to close the investigation among other settlement terms. The criminal inquiry focused on whether the company kept information from regulators and how it handled drivers' complaints about the problems, according to the sources.

Between 2009 and 2010, Toyota ended up recalling over 10 million vehicles worldwide over sudden acceleration fears. Fixes include modifying floor mats, gas pedals, and installing brake override software on affected models. In addition, Toyota made the latter standard on all of its new vehicles.

The first rumblings of a settlement broke last month when "people familiar with the matter" revealed a possible billion-dollar agreement. That rumor suggested that the deal would also include criminal deferred prosecution arrangement that would force Toyota to accept responsibility but let it avoid federal criminal convictions. This latest story doesn't mention this factor in the settlement.

"Toyota has cooperated with the US Attorney's office in this matter for more than four years. During that time, we have made fundamental changes to become a more responsive and customer-focused organization, and we are committed to continued improvements," said company spokesperson Steve Curtis in a statement to Bloomberg.

Toyota has already settled several other lawsuits related to the issue, including a $1.6-billion lawsuit from vehicle owners who claimed their cars dropped in value because of the issue. A $29-million settlement dealt with complaints from Attorneys General of 29 states.

Continue reading Toyota reaches $1.2B unintended acceleration settlement in criminal probe

Toyota reaches $1.2B unintended acceleration settlement in criminal probe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Mar 2014 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>settlementsudden accelerationtoyotatoyota lawsuittoyota recalltoyota safetyunintended accelerationWed, 19 Mar 2014 10:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20852827/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2014/03/19/toyota-1.2-billion-unintended-acceleration-criminal-probe-settlement/20852827/article-detail.xml 20852827 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/3961x2661+0+5/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/824b94ce00ebe0e69e0715af8471a6af/468909303_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/3961x2661+0+5/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/824b94ce00ebe0e69e0715af8471a6af/468909303.jpg <![CDATA[How many Toyotas are potentially affected by seat fabric problem?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/31/toyota-seat-fabric-problem-recall-number/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/31/toyota-seat-fabric-problem-recall-number/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/31/toyota-seat-fabric-problem-recall-number/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2013 Toyota Camry

Toyota stop-sale effectsWhen we reported yesterday on Toyota's stop-sale order of certain 2013 and 2014 models due to an issue with the fabrics on models with heated seats not conforming to flammability regulations, one of our many questions was how many vehicles were affected? More importantly, how many of those cars have already found homes?

Kelley Blue Book has the troubling statistics. Every 2013 and 2014 Avalon features heated seats. 6.2-percent of 2013 and 4.5-percent of 2014 Camry sedans, meanwhile, were sold with heated seats. That doesn't seem as bad as 100-percent of the larger Avalon, until you consider the Camry's huge volume - the 5.6-percent average still accounts for a lot of cars. Sienna minivans are heavily affected as well, with a total of 37-percent of 2013s and 46-percent of 2014s fitted with butt warmers. The stop-sale only affects 7-percent of 2014 Corolla models, but like the Camry, that number is rather misleading due to the sheer volume of cars Toyota moves. You can see the entire breakdown of percentages by clicking on the inset image.

According to Karl Brauer, a senior analyst for KBB, this problem comes at the worst possible time. "Given that much of the US is currently in the grips of a record cold snap, there's sure to be high demand for models with seat heaters," Brauer notes. The stop-sale order is a good first step, but it doesn't do anything to inform consumers who currently own the affected models and may, in these frosty temperatures, want to use their seat heaters. "Should owners of those vehicles stop using the seat heaters?" Brauer asked.

To its credit, Toyota is showing that it learned its lesson when it comes to these sorts of quality issues. "[Toyota] seems intent on doing everything it can to allay consumer fears about what at this stage is only a potential problem," said Jack Nerad, executive market analyst for KBB. That sentiment was echoed by Eric Ibara, the director of residual value consulting for the firm. "Toyota has learned from its experience with unintended acceleration that it needs to proactively take charge of safety issues involving its products," Ibara said.

As always, when more information about this issue becomes available, we'll be sure to let you know.

How many Toyotas are potentially affected by seat fabric problem? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jan 2014 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>recallseat heatersstop-sale ordertoyotatoyota avalontoyota avalon hybridtoyota camrytoyota camry hybridtoyota corollatoyota recalltoyota siennatoyota tundraFri, 31 Jan 2014 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20820279/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2014/01/31/toyota-seat-fabric-problem-recall-number/20820279/article-detail.xml 20820279 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/2971x1996+0+3/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/16eae13dd192503a79ed9cab417c6c30/ToyotaCamrySE006_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/2971x1996+0+3/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/16eae13dd192503a79ed9cab417c6c30/ToyotaCamrySE006.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota issues stop sale on 6 key models over seat fabrics; recall possible? [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/30/toyota-corolla-camry-tundra-stop-sale-seat-fabric-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/30/toyota-corolla-camry-tundra-stop-sale-seat-fabric-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/30/toyota-corolla-camry-tundra-stop-sale-seat-fabric-recall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Toyota Corolla

Toyota has issued a stop-sale order on six of its core models due to concerns about the flammability of certain seat fabrics. The issue rests not with the cloth and leather covers themselves, but with a piece of seat heater beneath them that fails to meet US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for flame retardancy.

There have been no reports of fires or injuries from the affected cars, which include some of Toyota's biggest volume sellers. 2013 and 2014 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid and Sienna models equipped with heated seats are included in the stop-sale, as are 2014 Tundra pickups and Corolla sedans. The exact number of vehicles with the non-compliant materials are still being tabulated, according to The Detroit Free Press.

According to a Toyota spokesman, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been notified, although it remains to be seen if a recall will be issued. Outside of a full recall, though, it's unclear how Toyota will deal with vehicles equipped with the flammable materials that have already found homes.

In the meantime, Toyota is reportedly developing a fix for those vehicle still sitting on dealer lots.

UPDATE: John Hanson, National Manager, Environmental, Quality, and Safety Communications for Lexus, has confirmed to Autoblog that no Lexus models are affected by this seat fabric issue. We have not yet heard back from Scion, but we'll update this post as soon as we do. Scion has confirmed to Autoblog that its vehicles will not be subject to the stop sale or seat material investigation.

UPDATE II: Toyota has released an official statement on the stop sale. You can read it below.

Continue reading Toyota issues stop sale on 6 key models over seat fabrics; recall possible? [UPDATE]

Toyota issues stop sale on 6 key models over seat fabrics; recall possible? [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jan 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nhtsarecallstop saletoyotatoyota camrytoyota camry hybridtoyota corollatoyota recalltoyota siennatoyota tacomatoyota tundraThu, 30 Jan 2014 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20819611/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2014/01/30/toyota-corolla-camry-tundra-stop-sale-seat-fabric-recall/20819611/article-detail.xml 20819611 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1110x745+148+26/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/e9b8d15ef1cc9ae859d4fedb58deaf07/001-2014-toyota-corolla-1_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1110x745+148+26/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/e9b8d15ef1cc9ae859d4fedb58deaf07/001-2014-toyota-corolla-1.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota must go to trial over unintended acceleration suits]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/10/08/toyota-headed-trial-over-prius-camry-unintended-acceleration-suits/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/10/08/toyota-headed-trial-over-prius-camry-unintended-acceleration-suits/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/10/08/toyota-headed-trial-over-prius-camry-unintended-acceleration-suits/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Toyota Prius

Toyota is surely readying its trial lawyers, as the Japanese giant is officially headed to court in a pair of cases relating to its unintended acceleration fiascos of 2009 and 2010.

In the first case, the United States Supreme Court has actually got involved in matters, ignoring an appeal from Toyota that attempted to use an arbitrator to settle its California lawsuits. The automaker will now go to trial to face owners of 2010 Prius models over an alleged defect with the anti-lock braking systems, which plaintiffs say made the cars more difficult to stop, according to Bloomberg.

The second trial is a bit more in depth, covering the case of Ida St. John, an 83-year-old from Georgia, that crashed her 2005 Camry in 2009. The accident is believed to have played a part in her death, although the suit, being filed by her grandson, doesn't actually place blame on Toyota for her death.

St. John's grandson filed suit against Toyota accusing it of negligence, that there was a design and manufacturing defect with the car and that Toyota failed to warn owners about the car's problem. While Toyota moved to dismiss the case, US District Judge upheld the charges over the design defect and Toyota's failure to inform customers, while dismissing the manufacturing defect claim and negligence.

Where St. John's case gets tricky is when you look at its model year - the 2005 Camry was not subject to any unintended acceleration recalls. According to Bloomberg, this is the first of Toyota's consolidated personal injury and wrongful death suits to go to trial in federal court.

Toyota must go to trial over unintended acceleration suits originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Oct 2013 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 toyota priusscotussudden accelerationsupreme courttoyotatoyota camrytoyota lawsuittoyota priustoyota recalltoyota unintended accelerationunintended accelerationTue, 08 Oct 2013 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20740356/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/10/08/toyota-headed-trial-over-prius-camry-unintended-acceleration-suits/20740356/article-detail.xml 20740356 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1116x751+136+101/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/65f64bd6f8509268b95e6a2c6e4b709c/01-10-prius_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1116x751+136+101/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/65f64bd6f8509268b95e6a2c6e4b709c/01-10-prius.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota and Lexus recalling 235,000 hybrid CUVs and sedans over separate issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/09/04/toyota-lexus-hybrid-crossover-sedan-recalls/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/09/04/toyota-lexus-hybrid-crossover-sedan-recalls/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/09/04/toyota-lexus-hybrid-crossover-sedan-recalls/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

When it rains, it pours. Toyota has announced a pair of separate but voluntary North America recalls covering approximately 235,000 vehicles built between 2006 and 2011. The larger of the two recalls targets Toyota's hybridized crossovers, the Lexus RX400h and Toyota Highlander Hybrid. 133,000 units, including 2006-2010 Highlander and 2006-2008 RX crossovers are covered in the campaign. The other recall affects 102,000 IS350 sedans, IS350C convertibles and GS350 sedans built between 2006 and 2011.

With the CUVs, the faults in the parallel circuits of the transistors can cause heat damage in the inverter assembly, triggering an abundance of warning lamps and sending the vehicle into limp mode. The Lexus sedans are being recalled due to loose bolts on the variable valve timing controller. Detected by unusual underhood sounds on startup, the issue can cause the engine to stop while driving. The inverter issue is also triggering similar recalls in Japan and Europe.

At the moment, it's unclear if any of these issues have caused any crashes or injuries. Toyota says it plans to notify owners of the recall via snail mail. Additional information for owners can be found on the recall sites for Toyota and Lexus or by calling Toyota's customer service line, at 1-800-331-4331. Scroll down for the complete recall notice from Toyota.

Continue reading Toyota and Lexus recalling 235,000 hybrid CUVs and sedans over separate issues

Toyota and Lexus recalling 235,000 hybrid CUVs and sedans over separate issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Sep 2013 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lexuslexus gslexus gs350lexus hybridlexus islexus is350lexus is350clexus recalllexus rxlexus rx400hrecalltoyotatoyota highlandertoyota highlander hybridtoyota hybridtoyota recallWed, 04 Sep 2013 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20711314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/09/04/toyota-lexus-hybrid-crossover-sedan-recalls/20711314/article-detail.xml 20711314 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1216x818+23+0/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/693c2661fc13aa665c211bbb1f8341e0/2008_highlander_hybrid_03109_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/1216x818+23+0/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/693c2661fc13aa665c211bbb1f8341e0/2008_highlander_hybrid_03109.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalling 342k Tacomas due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/07/toyota-recalling-342k-tacomas-faulty-seatbelt-pretensioners/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/07/toyota-recalling-342k-tacomas-faulty-seatbelt-pretensioners/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/07/toyota-recalling-342k-tacomas-faulty-seatbelt-pretensioners/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab front three-quarter

Toyota is voluntarily recalling 342,000 Tacoma Access Cab pickups, produced between 2004 and 2011. The wide-ranging recall is due to faults in the screws that attach the belt pre-tensioner to the belt retractor. There are concerns that the screws can loosen themselves over time, especially if the access door is opened and closed with too much force. It's important to note that the recall only covers the driver and front passenger seat, and is limited to just the Access Cab trucks. Other body styles aren't affected.

If the screws come loose, the pre-tensioner and retractor spring could separate from the belt entirely, which would be bad news in a crash. There's no mention of injuries or accidents due to the faulty pre-tensioners. Owners affected by the recall will be notified soon, and asked to come in for recall service.

Continue reading Toyota recalling 342k Tacomas due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners

Toyota recalling 342k Tacomas due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Aug 2013 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>recallsafetyseat beltstoyotatoyota recalltoyota tacomatoyota trucksWed, 07 Aug 2013 15:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20689303/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/08/07/toyota-recalling-342k-tacomas-faulty-seatbelt-pretensioners/20689303/article-detail.xml 20689303 http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/2196x1472+96+124/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/c3286e678f3b35bd7c4f318d4f506fd7/2007_10_08_TacomaACab01_thumbnail.jpg http://o.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/GLOB/crop/2196x1472+96+124/resize/628x417!/format/jpg/quality/85/http://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/adam/c3286e678f3b35bd7c4f318d4f506fd7/2007_10_08_TacomaACab01.jpg <![CDATA[First Toyota unintended acceleration case headed for trial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/22/first-toyota-unintended-acceleration-case-headed-for-trial/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/22/first-toyota-unintended-acceleration-case-headed-for-trial/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/22/first-toyota-unintended-acceleration-case-headed-for-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2006 Toyota Camry XLE front three-quarters

Toyota is going to be back in the spotlight, as the first of its unintended acceleration lawsuits is headed for trial. This case covers a Los Angeles sushi shop owner, Noriko Uno. According to the what the family told The Detroit News, Uno only put about 10,000 miles on her 2006 Toyota Camry in four years. Uno was apparently afraid of high speeds, avoiding the freeway and taking a route home along LA's surface streets to avoid them.

On August 28, 2009, Uno's Camry suddenly accelerated to 100 miles per hour, eventually striking a telephone poll and a tree and killing her. The family contends that Uno attempted to step on the brakes and pull the emergency brake, neither of which brought her speed under control, while Toyota maintains that improperly installed floormats and driver error have been behind the majority of the 80 cases expected to be heard in court.

In Uno's case, The Detroit News is expecting the trial to focus on the lack of an override if the gas and brake pedals were pressed at the same time. Brake overrides were installed on Toyota's European fleet. The Uno family attorney will need to prove to the jury that it wasn't driver error that killed Noriko Uno.

Uno's case will be a bellwether case, which other state courts will use to predict potential outcomes for similar lawsuits. Toyota is also combating suits in federal court as well, although in most cases both sides have chosen to settle. The federal suit argues that the Camry and other models had defective electronic throttle control systems, despite denials from Toyota and investigations from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and NASA coming up empty.

First Toyota unintended acceleration case headed for trial originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jul 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2006 toyota camrybrake overriderunawayrunaway toyotatoyotatoyota camrytoyota floormatstoyota recalltoyota sticky acceleratorunintended accelerationMon, 22 Jul 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20672617/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/07/22/first-toyota-unintended-acceleration-case-headed-for-trial/20672617/article-detail.xml 20672617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/07/2006-toyota-camry-1-1374501149_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/07/2006-toyota-camry-1-1374501149.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota to recall 185k cars globally, including Yaris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/04/toyota-to-recall-185k-cars-globally-including-yaris/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/04/toyota-to-recall-185k-cars-globally-including-yaris/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/04/toyota-to-recall-185k-cars-globally-including-yaris/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Yaris

Toyota has announced it is recalling a total of 185,000 vehicles worldwide for a power steering issue. Yaris and (overseas) Vitz models built between November 2010 and March 2012 could suffer a short circuit in their power steering control module if water gets inside. Should that happen, the power steering could fail, increasing effort when turning. The recall also includes the Verso-S and Ractis built from August 2010 to August 2011. The recall covers 130,000 vehicles in Japan and around 22,450 in Europe.

Only 74 units are being recalled in the United States.

Toyota says if the fault occurs, the vehicle will display the Electronic Power Steering warning light on the dash and a buzzer will sound. The automaker will alert owners by mail and dealers will replace the power steering control module free of charge. You can read the quick press release on the recall below for more information.

Continue reading Toyota to recall 185k cars globally, including Yaris

Toyota to recall 185k cars globally, including Yaris originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Jul 2013 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota yaris2012 yarisrecalltoyotatoyota ractistoyota recalltoyota vitzThu, 04 Jul 2013 08:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20648314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/07/04/toyota-to-recall-185k-cars-globally-including-yaris/20648314/article-detail.xml 20648314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/07/2012-toyota-yaris-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/07/2012-toyota-yaris-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Most vehicle recalls that take place these days are a result of some problem that happens during the manufacturing process by the automaker, but as we see here, parts suppliers can also factor in to problematic safety issues. Automotive News is reporting that a total of 3.4 million vehicles produced by Japanese automakers between 2000 and 2004 are being recalled globally due to faulty airbags produced by an outside supplier, Takata Corp.

According to the report, vehicles from Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mazda are being recalled because of passenger front airbags that do not inflate properly. Globally, Toyota is said to be recalling around 1.73 million cars including 510,000 in the US composed of Toyota Corolla, Matrix, Sequoia and Tundra as well as the Lexus SC430 for the 2001 through 2003 model years; this is the second time this year the 2003 Corolla and Matrix have been recalled for an airbag problem. Honda is recalling 1.14 million models, Nissan another 480,000 and Mazda 45,463. The article says that Takata supplied faulty airbags to non-Japanese automakers, but it did not specify which ones.

Honda and Toyota have released information on their own websites about the recall, while Nissan and Mazda have not yet commented. Read official press releases from Honda and Toyota, below, and look for updates as we have word from the others.

Continue reading Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags

Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda recalllexus sc430mazdamazda recallnissannissan recallrecalltoyotatoyota corollatoyota matrixtoyota recalltoyota sequoiatoyota tundraThu, 11 Apr 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537342/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/20537342/article-detail.xml 20537342 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalls 209,000 FJ Cruisers over seatbelt issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/16/toyota-recalls-209-000-fj-cruisers-over-seatbelt-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/16/toyota-recalls-209-000-fj-cruisers-over-seatbelt-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/16/toyota-recalls-209-000-fj-cruisers-over-seatbelt-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will be issuing a substantial recall of the FJ Cruiser for a problem that could cause the front seatbelt retractors to separate from the vehicle body. This recall will apply to all FJ Cruisers - from 2007 through 2013 - totaling around 209,000 units.

The problem stems from the FJ Cruiser's pillarless door opening design that has the front-occupant seatbelts attached to the rear doors. Toyota says that when the rear doors are "repeatedly and forcefully closed," the retractor could completely separate from the door frame.

While there is no information about this recall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration yet, Toyota says that there have been no accidents or injuries associated with this issue. No specific fix or recall date are given, but the official press release is posted below.

Continue reading Toyota recalls 209,000 FJ Cruisers over seatbelt issue

Toyota recalls 209,000 FJ Cruisers over seatbelt issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Mar 2013 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>recallrecallstoyotatoyota fj cruisertoyota recallSat, 16 Mar 2013 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20506122/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/16/toyota-recalls-209-000-fj-cruisers-over-seatbelt-issue/20506122/article-detail.xml 20506122 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-fj-cruiser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/toyota-fj-cruiser.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota announces two recalls affecting 1M Corolla, Matrix and Lexus IS models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota Corolla

The recall bug strikes Toyota again. The automaker has issued a voluntary recall of three models that, in total, represent more than one million units. Around 752,000 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla and Matrix models are being recalled for airbag concerns, while a windshield wiper issue is causing the recall for close to 270,000 Lexus IS sedans from the 2006-2012 model years.

Completely unrelated to the small airbag-related recall issued earlier in the week, the Corolla and Matrix recall is caused by a faulty airbag control module that could potentially short circuit, which could lead to the front airbags or seat belt pretensioners deploying. The Lexus recall is due to a wiper arm nut that wasn't tightened properly, which can cause the wipers to not work when trying to clear heavy buildup such as snow.

Scroll down for a press release that includes more information, as well as details about how owners can contact the manufacturer directly.

Continue reading Toyota announces two recalls affecting 1M Corolla, Matrix and Lexus IS models

Toyota announces two recalls affecting 1M Corolla, Matrix and Lexus IS models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbagslexuslexus isrecallrecallssafetytoyotatoyota corollatoyota recallWed, 30 Jan 2013 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20443159/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/20443159/article-detail.xml 20443159 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalling 670k Prius models in US, 2.77 million vehicles worldwide [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Automotive News reports Toyota is recalling a total of 2.77 million vehicles worldwide for faulty water pumps and steering system issues. A total of 670,000 of those are 2004-2009 Prius hybrids sold in the US. Those vehicles are headed back to the dealer, where technicians will inspect the intermediate shaft in the steering column for deformed splines and replace the shaft if necessary. Around 350,000 of those same models will also be inspected for a faulty electric water pump. In some cases, the motor driving the pump could stop, causing the electric motor to overheat and stop functioning while being driven.

Toyota has not received any reports of accidents as a result of either problem, and says the inspections and replacement work should be completed in around one hour.

The recalls also affect 496,000 vehicles in Europe and a further 1.5 million in Japan. All told, the steering shaft recall covers 10 models worldwide, including the Corolla and Wish models manufactured in Japan between 2000 and 2009. Five models are affected by the water pump recall, though we're still waiting for confirmation from Toyota as to which they are. You can read the full Toyota press release below, covering the US-spec Prius issues, for more information.

UPDATE: We've heard back from Toyota about the two recall issues reported on this morning, and have a bit of clarification on the models in question, worldwide, now.

Prius is the only model affected by the water pump issue. As we indicated earlier, the faulty water pump could cause the electric motor to shut down, which then causes the ECU to shut down the gasoline engine, as well.

The other nine models affected by the steering shaft issue (which is unrelated to the water pump issue) are mostly Japanese Domestic Market vehicles: Allex, Avensis, Corolla, Corolla Feilder, Corolla Run X, Corolla Spacio, Isis, WiLL VS and Wish.

We also have a breakdown of the number of vehicles affected by both recalls, by world market. 670k in the US, 1.5 million in Japan, 15k in Canada, 496k in Europe, 3,800 in China, 35k in Oceania, 1,500 in the Middle East and a total of 12,600 in "other" regions.

Continue reading Toyota recalling 670k Prius models in US, 2.77 million vehicles worldwide [UPDATE]

Toyota recalling 670k Prius models in US, 2.77 million vehicles worldwide [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>prius recallrecallsteering recalltoyotatoyota corollatoyota priustoyota prius recalltoyota recallwater pumpWed, 14 Nov 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20379618/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/toyota-recalling-2-77-million-vehicles-for-water-pump-steering/20379618/article-detail.xml 20379618 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2007-toyota-prius-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2007-toyota-prius-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota had some warning of recall issues four years ago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/toyota-had-some-warning-of-recall-issues-four-years-ago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/toyota-had-some-warning-of-recall-issues-four-years-ago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/toyota-had-some-warning-of-recall-issues-four-years-ago/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Toyota RAV4 Switches

Automotive News reports Toyota may have known about the problem behind the company's recall of 7.43 million vehicles. The recall covers faulty window switches that may get stuck or catch fire if improperly lubricated. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received its first complaint about the issue some four years ago, which singled out American supplier, Tram Inc., and its Japanese parent company, Tokai Rika Co., as being to blame for the trouble. The faulty switches in question were described as emitting a strange smell and were sent back to the supplier for analysis. Tokai Rika couldn't discern a cause for the failure.

Toyota dropped the case in that instance, but continued to monitor the switches. Similar reports flared up once again in 2010, this time with the components actually smoking, and Toyota launched a full-fledged internal investigation that eventually led to the recent recall. The campaign covers nearly 2.5 million vehicles in the US alone.

Why did it take Toyota so long to launch the recall? The company says it was trying to discern why the switches were failing before it issued a fix.

Toyota had some warning of recall issues four years ago originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>national highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecalltoyotatoyota recalltoyota window switch recallwindow switchThu, 11 Oct 2012 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347378/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/11/toyota-had-some-warning-of-recall-issues-four-years-ago/20347378/article-detail.xml 20347378 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/rav4-switches-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/rav4-switches-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalls 2.5 million vehicles over fire risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Toyota Yaris

Toyota has announced a voluntary of around 2.5 million vehicles in the US for faulty window switches. The automaker says the driver's side power window master switch may develop a sticky or notchy feel during operation, and that if owners or technicians apply commercial lubricant, the switch my smoke or catch fire.

The recall covers certain Yaris, RAV4, Tundra, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Sequoia, Corolla and Matrix models as well as Scion xD and xA units. All vehicles fall between the model years 2007 and 2009. Over 200 incidents involving the switches have been reported in the US alone, though the trouble hasn't caused any accidents or injuries.

Toyota technicians will inspect, disassemble and apply special flourine grease to the switches free of charge. Owners can expect to receive a recall notice starting later this month. The 2.5M unit total only covers US vehicles - some 7.4M units will fall under this recall globally. Take a look at the full press release below.

Continue reading Toyota recalls 2.5 million vehicles over fire risk

Toyota recalls 2.5 million vehicles over fire risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>national highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallrecallstoyotatoyota recalltoyota window switch recallwindow switchWed, 10 Oct 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20346107/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/20346107/article-detail.xml 20346107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-yaris-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-yaris-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz M-Class being recalled due to possible accelerator entrapment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/mercedes-benz-m-class-being-recalled-due-to-possible-accelerator/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/mercedes-benz-m-class-being-recalled-due-to-possible-accelerator/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/mercedes-benz-m-class-being-recalled-due-to-possible-accelerator/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Floor mats impeding gas pedals are continuing to cause problems for automakers. This time its Mercedes-Benz.

According to The Detroit News, the German automaker is recalling all-season accessory floor mats on 2012 and 2013 M-Class models for fear that the mat could entrap the go-pedal.

Mercedes-Benz filed this recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, possibly effecting 8,675 in the United States. According to a Mercedes-Benz spokesperson, the floor mats "may not conform to the contours of the floor." This could result in the gas pedal being pressed, and not coming back up, resulting in the car continuing to accelerate. Mercedes has recommended that all M-Class owners remove the floor mats for the time being.

The luxury automaker will notify owners of effected vehicles and have dealers replace the mats free of charge. Mercedes-Benz vehicles currently incorporated brake-override systems that nix the gas pedal inputs when both the accelerator and brake are applied simultaneously.

Mercedes-Benz M-Class being recalled due to possible accelerator entrapment originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Aug 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>floor matsmercedesmercedes ml-classmercedes recalltoyota recallunintended accelerationMon, 13 Aug 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20299313/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/13/mercedes-benz-m-class-being-recalled-due-to-possible-accelerator/20299313/article-detail.xml 20299313 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2012-mercedes-benz-ml350-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2012-mercedes-benz-ml350-628.jpg <![CDATA[Sen Grassley asks if Toyota got off easy with unintended acceleration debacle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/sen-grassley-asks-if-toyota-got-off-easy-with-unintended-acceler/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/sen-grassley-asks-if-toyota-got-off-easy-with-unintended-acceler/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/sen-grassley-asks-if-toyota-got-off-easy-with-unintended-acceler/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in the spotlights

Toyota is facing further fallout from its recent unintended acceleration debacle, with Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to reopen its investigation into the situation that led Toyota to recall some eight million vehicles. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, Grassley has written a letter to NHTSA director David Strickland, stating in part, "Key questions about the cause of unintended acceleration remain unanswered."

Grassley's contention is that because neither of the two independent investigations into the issue produced a definitive cause or explanation, further digging is necessary. Most of the unintended acceleration incidents in the NASA and National Academy of Sciences reports not attributed to trapped floormats or other problems with accelerator pedals were blamed on driver error, according to the report, but both studies concluded that other unknown issues could be at play.

According to Automotive News, Grassley is particularly concerned about the "tin whiskers" phenomenon, in which tiny threads of conductive crystal can grow on circuit boards.

Toyota has responded to the Grassley letter, issuing a statement that reads, in part, "There is no problem with the electronic throttle control systems in Toyota vehicles - and all the scientific evidence confirms it. So-called 'tin whiskers' are not a new phenomenon and do not represent a mysterious or undetectable problem in a vehicle's electronics."

Sen Grassley asks if Toyota got off easy with unintended acceleration debacle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chuck grassleygrassleynasanational academy of sciencesnhtsanhtsa investigationrecallsudden accelerationtoyotatoyota recallunintended accelerationFri, 13 Jul 2012 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20277718/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/13/sen-grassley-asks-if-toyota-got-off-easy-with-unintended-acceler/20277718/article-detail.xml 20277718 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/sen-chuck-grassley_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/sen-chuck-grassley.jpeg <![CDATA[Lexus adding over 150,000 RX crossovers to pedal entrapment recall, may face NHTSA investigation [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/lexus-adding-over-150-000-rx-crossovers-to-pedal-entrapment-reca/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/lexus-adding-over-150-000-rx-crossovers-to-pedal-entrapment-reca/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/lexus-adding-over-150-000-rx-crossovers-to-pedal-entrapment-reca/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Lexus RX 450h

Remember the giant Toyota pedal entrapment recalls that all started in late 2009? Well, it's not over yet. No, we aren't just talking about the various lawsuits that the automaker still faces in connection with the recalls, we're talking about yet another set of vehicles that are being added to the list. Welcome to the gang, 2010 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h.

Toyota states that the duo of Lexus crossovers are being recalled for "unsecured or incompatible floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal." In total, 154,000 RX models are affected by this latest addendum to the recall - 131,800 RX 350 and 22,200 RX 450h vehicles.

Between the two different pedal entrapment cases, Toyota has now recalled around 7.8 million vehicles.

The automaker will notify customers via first class mail beginning in August. Concerned owners can contact the manufacturer directly at 1.800.255.3987 or visit lexus.com/recall for more information. Scroll down to read the official press release.

UPDATE: According to the International Business Times, the National Highway Traffic Safety administration may consider launching an investigation on Toyota "regarding delays in notifying the agency about the problem." The government agency released a statement saying, "NHTSA is requesting additional documentation from the manufacturer and is considering opening an investigation into whether Toyota met its obligation to notify the agency and conduct a recall in a timely manner."

Continue reading Lexus adding over 150,000 RX crossovers to pedal entrapment recall, may face NHTSA investigation [UPDATE]

Lexus adding over 150,000 RX crossovers to pedal entrapment recall, may face NHTSA investigation [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lexus rx2010 lexus rx 3502010 lexus rx 450hlexuslexus rxrecallrx 350rx 450htoyota recallFri, 29 Jun 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20269327/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/29/lexus-adding-over-150-000-rx-crossovers-to-pedal-entrapment-reca/20269327/article-detail.xml 20269327 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-2010-lexus-rx-450h628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-2010-lexus-rx-450h628opt.jpg -1 2