Toyota Recall Update

Click to hear the latest news concerning the Toyota Recall:

 David Bruce AutoCenter is committed to keeping you informed as we know information.

Please take a moment to view the video from CNBC by CLICKING HERE TO VIEW and to get some expert views on these current events with the recall.  We have been updating you on the latest news for the current recall from Toyota.  Now we HAVE THE PARTS AVAILABLE to perform the work.  Service will be scheduling everyone affected as quickly as possible, even keeping EXTENDED SERVICE HOURS WHEN NECESSARY!  Our main goal is to provide the best and most efficient service necessary as we appreciate your business.  We want you to count on us for all of your family's future needs.  Please give our service department a call directly at 815-935-4600 to schedule your appointment. 

As you have probably heard, Toyota has issued a recall for some of its vehicles.  These are ONLY the vehicles that are equipped with the Indiana based company CTS Corporation (list to follow).  Toyota's top priority has always been customers which has made them the #1 Auto Manufacturer worldwide.  As the leading dealership in our area, we want to make sure we keep you informed and do all we can to expedite this quickly, but correctly.  Below is the most current information issued by Toyota followed by many Frequently Asked Questions:

HERE IS THE LATEST AS OF FEBRUARY 2ND, 2010:

CLICK HERE TO SEE FULL PAGE REGARDING RECALL

 

 

TORRANCE, Calif., February 1, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc., today announced it will begin fixing accelerator pedals in recalled Toyota Division vehicles this week.  Toyota’s engineers have developed and rigorously tested a solution that involves reinforcing the pedal assembly in a manner that eliminates the excess friction that has caused the pedals to stick in rare instances.  In addition, Toyota has developed an effective solution for vehicles in production.
 
Parts to reinforce the pedals are already being shipped for use by dealers, and dealer training is under way.  Many Toyota dealers will work extended hours to complete the recall campaign as quickly and conveniently as possible, some even staying open 24 hours a day. The company has also taken the unprecedented action of stopping production of affected vehicles for the week of February 1.
 
“Nothing is more important to us than the safety and reliability of the vehicles our customers drive,” said Jim Lentz, president and Chief Operating Officer, TMS.  “We deeply regret the concern that our recalls have caused for our customers and we are doing everything we can – as fast as we can – to make things right.  Stopping production is never an easy decision, but we are 100% confident it was the right decision.  We know what’s causing the sticking accelerator pedals, and we know what we have to do to fix it.  We also know it is most important to fix this problem in the cars on the road.”
 
Lentz added: “We are focused on making this recall as simple and trouble-free as possible, and will work day and night with our dealers to fix recalled vehicles quickly.  We want to demonstrate that our commitment to safety is as high as ever and that our commitment to our customers is unwavering.”
 
On January 21, Toyota announced its intention to recall approximately 2.3 million select Toyota Division vehicles equipped with a specific pedal assembly and suspended sales of the eight models involved in the recall on January 26.
 
Toyota vehicles affected by the recall include:
• Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
• Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry
• Certain 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia
 
No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions.  Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and certain Camry models, including Camry hybrids, all of which remain for sale.
 
Further, Camry, RAV4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) that begin with "J" are not affected by the accelerator pedal recall.
 
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.
 
Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to this recall are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
 
How Toyota Will Fix Recalled Vehicles
 
Toyota has pinpointed the issue that could, on rare occasions, cause accelerator pedals in recalled vehicles to stick in a partially open position.  The issue involves a friction device in the pedal designed to provide the proper “feel” by adding resistance and making the pedal steady and stable.  The device includes a shoe that rubs against an adjoining surface during normal pedal operation.  Due to the materials used, wear and environmental conditions, these surfaces may, over time, begin to stick and release instead of operating smoothly.  In some cases, friction could increase to a point that the pedal is slow to return to the idle position or, in rare cases, the pedal sticks, leaving the throttle partially open.
 
Toyota’s solution for current owners is both effective and simple.  A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the assembly that will reduce the surface tension between the friction shoe and the adjoining surface.  With this reinforcement in place, the excess friction that can cause the pedal to stick is eliminated.  The company has confirmed the effectiveness of the newly reinforced pedals through rigorous testing on pedal assemblies that had previously shown a tendency to stick.
 
 
ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
 
Which models are involved in the sticking accelerator pedal recall/stop sale?
Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles:
 
• Certain 2009-2010 RAV4*,
• Certain 2009-2010 Corolla*,
• 2009-2010 Matrix,
• 2005-2010 Avalon,
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry*,
• Certain 2010 Highlander*,
• 2007-2010 Tundra,
• 2008-2010 Sequoia
 
*Highlander hybrids and Camry hybrids are not involved in this action and will remain for sale.  Further, Camry, RAV 4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with VINs that begin with "J" are not involved.
 
What is a “VIN” and how do I find it on my automobile?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a 17-character sequence of numbers and letters that is used by the automobile industry to uniquely identify motor vehicles. It can be viewed through the windshield on the driver’s side at the front of the dashboard. 
 
In addition, the VIN number is also located on a sticker located the driver’s side pillar, with the tire inflation information and on the vehicle’s registration.
 
Why are mechanically similar Lexus and Scion vehicles not involved in this recall?
The recall involved pedal is confined to one of Toyota’s suppliers. That supplier’s pedals are not used on Lexus and Scion vehicles.
 
What is the problem that could cause accelerators to stick and led to the recall?
The issue involves a friction device in the pedal designed to provide the proper “feel” by adding resistance and making the pedal steady and stable. 
 
This friction device includes a “shoe” that rubs against an adjoining surface during normal pedal operation.  Due to the materials used, wear and environmental conditions, these surfaces may, over time, begin to stick and release instead of operating smoothly. In some cases, friction could increase to a point that the pedal is slow to return to the idle position or, in rare cases, the pedal sticks, leaving the throttle partially open.
 
What is the solution Toyota announced to fix sticking accelerator pedals?
Toyota’s engineers have developed and rigorously tested a solution that is both effective and simple.   A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the accelerator pedal assembly, thereby eliminating the excess friction that has caused pedals to stick in rare instances.
 
How does a steel reinforcement bar solve this problem?
The steel reinforcement bar will reduce the surface tension between the friction shoe and the adjoining surface.  With this reinforcement in place, the excess friction that can cause the pedal to stick is eliminated. 
 
How does Toyota know that this solution will be effective?
Toyota has confirmed the effectiveness of the newly reinforced pedals through rigorous testing on pedal assemblies that had previously shown a tendency to stick.  Nothing is more important to Toyota than the safety and satisfaction of our customers, and Toyota has high confidence in its solution for fixing our customers’ vehicles. 
 
When can I get my vehicle fixed?
Toyota will begin contacting customers to let them know when to bring in their vehicles for the fix, and some of them will be notified as early as this week (Week beginning, Monday, February 1).  Because of the number of vehicles involved, it will take time to process and mail the instructions to all involved vehicle owners, and Toyota appreciates its owners’ patience during this time.  Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall. Upon receipt of an owner notification letter than their vehicle is involved, owners will be asked to please contact a local Toyota dealership to schedule an appointment to have their vehicle fixed. 
 
At Toyota, our highest priority has been to quickly and effectively address the needs of owners of involved vehicles.  Parts to reinforce the pedals are already being shipped for use by dealers, and many Toyota dealers will work extended hours to complete the recall campaign as quickly and conveniently as possible -- some even staying open 24 hours a day.
 
Does the reinforced pedal feel any different?
Drivers should not notice any change in the feel of the pedal.
 
How long will it take for a dealer to repair my automobile?
The actual repair involves about 30 minutes’ work.
 
Is the repair covered by warranty?  Will drivers have to pay any money out of pocket for this work?
Toyota will cover all repair costs associated with this work.
 
Is my car safe to drive if it has not yet received this solution?
To be clear, the condition is rare and generally does not occur suddenly.  It 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.
 
Customers who experience an accelerator pedal that is hard to depress, slow to return or is unsmooth during operation should drive the vehicle to a safe location, shut off the engine and contact a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.
 
What if you experience a sticking accelerator pedal while driving?
Each circumstance may vary, and drivers must use their best judgment, but Toyota recommends taking the following actions:
• If you need to stop immediately, the vehicle can be controlled by stepping on the brake pedal with both feet using firm and steady pressure.  Do not pump the brake pedal as it will deplete the vacuum utilized for the power brake assist.
• Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.
• If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost. 
      o If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine.  Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button.  
      o If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine.  Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel.
 
What do I do if I believe I am experiencing a sticking accelerator pedal before my car receives the remedy? Should I bring my car to a dealer?
Customers who experience an accelerator pedal that is hard to depress, slow to return or is unsmooth during operation should drive the vehicle to a safe location, shut off the engine and contact a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.
 
Otherwise, if you are not experiencing any of these issues with your accelerator pedal, Toyota is confident that your vehicle is safe to drive, and no action is required at this time.  Toyota will begin contacting customers to let them know when to bring in their vehicles for the fix, and some of them will be notified as early as this week.
 
What if my vehicle is also involved in the floor mat recall?  Which will be addressed first?
Toyota is working to coordinate the pedal entrapment and the sticking pedal recalls to minimize the number of customers who will have to have two service visits.
 
Are you continuing to investigate other models for this sticking pedal issue?
Toyota is confident that all models that contain the potentially sticking pedals have been identified.
 
Why has Toyota stopped selling the involved vehicles?  When will those vehicles go on sale again? 
The law requires that dealers stop delivering all new vehicles identified in our recall notice.  As the dealer modifies vehicles, the dealers may sell and deliver the vehicles on a vehicle-by-vehicle basis. In other words, once a dealer modifies a vehicle, the dealer may sell and deliver it even though similar, unmodified vehicles at the dealership may not be delivered to customers.
 
However, Toyota’s priority is providing the remedy to current vehicle owners first.
 
 
 
 
 
HERE IS INFORMATION AS OF JAN 30TH: 

 

 

"Nothing is more important to Toyota than doing the right thing for our customers -- and restoring

their confidence in the safety of our vehicles. We deeply regret the concern that our recalls are

causing for our loyal customers, and we are making an all-out effort to develop and implement

effective remedies as quickly as we can.

Our highest priority is to fix the accelerator pedal problems for our existing customers. We want

to reassure Toyota owners that instances of sticking pedals are rare and generally do not occur

suddenly. Toyota is currently in the process of recalling vehicles to remedy the issue of pedal

entrapment and we have begun sending instructions to customers about how we will fix their

vehicles. Customers who have any questions or have experienced any issues with their

accelerator pedals should visit Toyota.com, contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-

800-331-4331, or call their local Toyota dealer.

We’ve identified the cause of the problem and are focusing all of our energy and resources on

developing and thoroughly testing remedies. Our engineers have been working around the clock

and we’ve been in direct communication with the National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration (NHTSA) throughout this process. We also appreciate the opportunity to inform

the House Committee on Energy and Commerce about our efforts to address this situation for

our customers and we pledge our full cooperation with the Committee.

Toyota has taken the unprecedented step of stopping production to help serve our customers

quickly and ensure that all new Toyota vehicles going forward do not experience this problem.

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America (TEMA) has also been working

closely with our pedal supplier CTS on a revised design that effectively remedies the problem.

These pedals are now in full production at CTS to support Toyota’s needs. At the same time, we

continue to work with CTS to test effective pedal modifications for existing vehicles on the road

that will be available to our customers as quickly as possible.

We appreciate the comments that Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood made today about the

way Toyota has stepped up to meet our responsibilities to our customers, and we are determined

to continue fulfilling our commitment to put our customers first."

 

 

The involved vehicles can be identified by the accelerator pedal; only vehicles equipped

with CTS accelerator pedals (“CTS pedals”) are involved.

 Certain 2009-2010 RAV4*

 Certain 2009-2010 Corolla*

 2009-2010 Matrix

 2005-2010 Avalon

 Certain 2007-2010 Camry* except hybrid models

 Certain 2010 Highlander* except hybrid models

 2007-2010 Tundra

 2008-2010 Sequoia

 

*NOTE:

 RAV4 equipped with Denso pedals are not part of this stop delivery action and

may be retailed.

Corolla, Highlander and Camrys equipped with Denso pedals are not part of this

stop delivery action.

 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

1. What is the condition that has prompted Toyota to take this action?

In rare instances, there is a possibility that CTS accelerator pedal mechanisms may

mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position.

2. What is the likelihood that my vehicle will experience this condition?

The condition is rare and generally does not occur suddenly. It seems to 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.

3. Are you continuing to investigate other models?

Toyota is confident that all models that contain the potentially sticking pedals have

been identified.

4. Why has Toyota stopped selling the affected vehicles?

Until Toyota has remedied the potential for sticking accelerator pedals, a sales

suspension of vehicles with the CTS pedals is required .

5. How long will this stop sale be in effect?

This stop sales/delivery action will only be in place until Toyota is able to provide

service repair parts and instructions to dealers so that they can remedy their involved

vehicles. Involved vehicles may be made available for retail sale as soon as they are

repaired.

6. When do you expect to have a remedy?

We believe that a remedy may be announced as early as next week and that the

necessary parts and instructions will become available later in the month of February.

7. What options are you exploring for a remedy?

We are reviewing a number of different options, but are aiming for a simple repair

which does not require disassembly of the accelerator pedal unit.

8. What should I do if I believe my vehicle is affected by this condition, i.e. I have

noticed that my accelerator pedal is hard to depress, slow to return or is not

smooth during operation. What should I do?

You should bring the vehicle to a stop at the nearest safe location and shut off the

engine. Then contact any Toyota dealer for assistance.

 

9. What if you experience a sticking accelerator pedal while driving?

Each circumstance may vary, and drivers must use their best judgment, but Toyota

recommends taking one of the following actions:

 If you need to stop immediately, the vehicle can be controlled by stepping on the

brake pedal with both feet using firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brake

pedal as it will deplete the vacuum utilized for the power brake assist.

 Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to

make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.

 If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF. This will not cause loss

of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost.

 If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly and steadily push

the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Do NOT tap the Engine

Start/Stop button.

 If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the

ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as

this will lock the steering wheel.

10. If I am an owner of one of the affected vehicles, what action do I need to take?

Toyota is working quickly to develop a remedy for this potential condition and will issue

owner notifications in the future. No action is required at this time unless you feel you

are experiencing this condition. If you are experiencing this condition, immediately

contact your nearest Toyota Dealer for assistance.

11. Toyota stated that this did not affect new/low mileage vehicles, has the situation

changed?

Generally that seems to be the case; however, the law requires that the entire universe

of new vehicles identified in our recall notice must be included in the stop sale.

12. Why are you stopping production at your factories?

Beginning on February 1, 2010 production is being temporarily suspended at five North

American production facilities to assess and coordinate activities related to the recall

announced on January 21. This also allows us to expedite customer repairs by

diverting parts, originally slated for production vehicles, to dealerships for their use in

remedying this condition in customer vehicles.

13. What should I do if I still have questions or concerns?

If you still have questions or concerns that have not been addressed here, please

contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

The Toyota Customer Experience Center hours are:

Mon - Fri, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PST

Sat, 7:00 am - 4:00 pm PST