Toyota has issued a voluntary recall, yet again involving the possibility of accelerators jamming. This time, less cars are affected, and the cause is different as well.
The previous recall involved an issue with the floor mats jamming the accelerator. This time however, it’s the mechanics of the accelerator itself which could jam. Here’s the list of affected vehicles:
- 2009-2010 Toyota RAV4
- 2009-2010 Corolla
- 2009-2010 Matrix
- 2005-2010 Avalon
- 2007-2010 Camry
- 2010 Highlander
- 2007-2010 Tundra
- 2008-2010 Sequoia
An estimated 2.3 million cars are affected in total. No Lexus or Scion division cars have been affected, according to Toyota, and certain Camry models aren’t affected as well, including Camry hybrids. Toyota hasn’t yet announced how they will be fixing this, nor when the recall will begin. The only way to fix it, as of now, is to simply replace the mechanism.
Interestingly though, there’s a car from GM which will be affected by this recall as well, although GM will probably be making their own recall notice once they sort out some details. This is the 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe, which, underneath the Pontiac skin, is just a 2009-2010 Toyota Matrix, one of the affected cars.
Despite this recall though, reports say that Toyota dealers are continuing to sell affected cars without a fix. Toyota states this is because the issue only begins after extended wear, and since they haven’t figured out a fix yet, they may as well sell the cars for now and call them in once a fix has been sorted out.
If you own one of the affected cars, contact your Toyota dealer to find out what to do. If you have fairly high mileage, I wouldn’t recommend driving the car until Toyota replaces or fixes the accelerator.
Here’s Toyota’s recall notice:
Toyota Files Voluntary Safety Recall on Select Toyota Division Vehicles for Sticking Accelerator Pedal
• Lexus and Scion Models Not Affected• Filing Addresses Isolated Customer Complaints
• Separate From On-Going Recall Involving Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment Issue
TORRANCE, Calif., January 21, 2010 — Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc, today announced it would recall approximately 2.3 million vehicles to correct sticking accelerator pedals on specific Toyota Division models. This action is separate from the on-going recall of approximately 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles to reduce the risk of pedal entrapment by incorrect or out of place accessory floor mats. Approximately 1.7 million Toyota Division vehicles are subject to both separate recall actions. “In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats,” said TMS Group Vice President Irv Miller. “Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.” Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles: • 2009-2010 RAV4,
• 2009-2010 Corolla,
• 2009-2010 Matrix,
• 2005-2010 Avalon,
• 2007-2010 Camry,
• 2010 Highlander,
• 2007-2010 Tundra,
• 2008-2010 Sequoia No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by this recall action. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids. The condition is rare, but can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position. Toyota is working quickly to prepare the correction remedy. In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes. The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure. The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance. Toyota will continue to investigate incidents of unwanted acceleration and take appropriate measures to address any trends that are identified. Toyota owners who have questions or concerns should contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. Source: Toyota, Kicking Tires via Autoblog and Automotive News via Autoblog
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