Toyota and Lexus Recall eBulletin
Sudden acceleration accidents involving Toyota vehicles have resulted in at least reported 19 deaths since the introduction of the 2002 models. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that all other automakers combined had 11 fatalities related to sudden acceleration in the same period.
Toyota & Lexus Recall Timeline:
- September 2009: Toyota announces the largest recall in its history involving almost 4 million vehicles in the US. The recall is over fears of accelerator pedals becoming trapped in floor mats. According to Toyota, this "may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death."
- January 21, 2010: Toyota announces another recall, this time involving around 2.3 million vehicles in the US, to fix potentially faulty accelerator pedals. The action comes on top of the on-going recall of some 4.2 million vehicles over "pedal entrapment" risks.
- January 26, 2010: Toyota suspends sales of the eight models involved in the January 21st faulty accelerator recall.
- January 28, 2010: US congressional investigators launch probe into accelerator problems.
- February 1, 2010: Toyota announces Comprehensive Plan to Fix Accelerator Pedals on Recalled Vehicles and Ensure Customer Safety.
Toyota’s Plan:
According to Toyota Motor Sales President and Chief Operating Officer, Jim Lentz, Toyota will briefly stop production of affected vehicles and focus on repairing faulty accelerators. A reinforced assembly on the accelerator pedal will address excess friction, which has been determined to be a cause of the problem. The recall allows owners to return their vehicles to Toyota dealerships for this fix which takes approximately 30 minutes to install. However, it is best to check with the dealer before making the trip to ensure they have the proper parts in stock.
What Consumers Need to Know:
1. You can click here to determine if your Toyota or Lexus vehicle is subject to the floor mat pedal entrapment recall.
2. You can click here to determine if your Toyota vehicle is subject to the sticking accelerator pedal recall.
3. If at all possible, do not drive your Toyota or Lexus vehicle until after the pedal assembly has been repaired by your dealer.
4. If you must drive, remove the driver’s side floor mat as a precautionary measure.
5. If your accelerator pedal sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, control your vehicle with firm and steady application of the brakes.
6. You can click herefor Toyota’s list of other general FAQs regarding both recalls.
The Neese Law Firm, P.C. is investigating serious personal injury and wrongful death claims related to Toyota floor mat and faulty accelerators. You can contact us at 713.355.1200 or www.JohnNeeseLaw.com.
