Toyota Recall - Information and Advice from CB's Driving School

Toyota Recall Information & Advice

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Problems resolved, Toyota move on

With all repairs either completed or booked Toyota prepare to put their problems behind them. But how much has the run of problems affected the reputation and strength on the brand. Only time will tell.

........NEXT! Reports of a possible recall on Toyota Corolla's! Power Steering

There are now reports of recalls due to power steering. What's next for Toyota?! Who knows! This will not effect UK owners as the Corolla has not been sold in the UK since early 2007, when the Auris model took over.

Interestingly public opinion over the whole Toyota affair seems to be that the Press took the issue and ran with it. This is not something which has taken place with previous recalls, including those from the likes of Mercedes and BMW. Reports seem to suggest a much lower danger than reports suggested. However this does not seem to be reducing the threat of serious legal action in America. Complaints are that Toyota was too slow to react, and there are even allegations of cover-ups. But these are mainly based around the US issues, who - as we know - will sue at the drop of a hat!

........And now! Prius hybrid recalled! 8,500 cars in the UK

This time it's the ABS. The action is reportedly being taken in response to complaints regarding inconsistent brake feel during braking on bumpy or slick road surfaces when the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is triggered. This fix takes around 40mins. Owners will be contacted. The car in front is a Toytota........thank God it's not behind us!
The problem if affecting 436,000 Mk3 Prius built before 27th January 2010, pushing the total number of Toyota's recalled worldwide since October to nearly 9 million. For up to date recall information regarding the Prius brake recall see here

Toyota have announced that more than 180,000 UK cars require repair.

This global recall will cost the company an estimated $2 billion (£1.25bn), not to mention the damage to Toyota's reputation. This follows a previous recall in January 09 connected to potentially dangerous seatbelt pretensioners.

Toyota is contacting owners of 180,865 UK cars that are potentially affected by a sticking accelerator pedal to arrange a 30-minute remedial repair.

The problem affects eight models sold in the UK (the iQ, Aygo, Yaris, Auris, Corolla, Avensis and Verso). A worldwide figure is estimated at more than eight million cars. The repair involves fitting a steel stiffening plate to correct the problem with a friction device which is fitted to the throttle pedal and can become stiff and potentially jam.

So far Toyota says the accelerator problem was identified last year and affected no more than 30 cars, with no casualties reported. These were repaired and it was assumed that the problem was resolved, however it resurfaced again during the cold weather this winter.

This is the second recent problem following five million US vehicles that were recalled to rectify a problem over unsecured floor mats jamming the throttle.

The Toyota website states “It has been identified that there is a small risk of an accelerator pedal issue in certain Toyota models. We are voluntarily recalling specific models from the range to investigate and eliminate the condition. Customer safety has always been the primary focus for Toyota, and understandably never more so than now.

Toyota has pinpointed an issue that on rare occasions could cause accelerator pedals in certain vehicles to "stick" in a partially open position. The recall is being undertaken as a precautionary measure as only a tiny percentage of the vehicles could develop this specific condition.

As soon as further information is available we will contact all customers whose vehicles are affected and confirm next steps. For a further description on the issue, frequently asked questions, and the vehicles possibly affected please see below.

It is our focus to make this recall as simple and trouble free as possible, whilst highlighting any further developments to all Toyota customers as soon as information becomes available. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused, we understand that the current situation is creating concerns and deeply regret it.”

Concerned owners should contact Toyota's helpline on 0800 1388 744 or look at the recall information on its website. www.toyota.co.uk/recall

Peugeot Citroën has also announced a recall of about 90,000 cars manufactured at plant which is jointly run with Toyota. They have withdrawn some of its Peugeot 107 and Citroën C1 models, but have not yet announced how many of these will be in the UK

The Peugeot 107, Citroen C1 and the Aygo are essentially the same car with different styling and fittings, a spokesman for the company said.

But aren't there are accidents being reported? Am I safe?

Regarding reports of accidents in America. Toyota has two separate issues in America. The first is the same sticky accelerator pedal as reported in Europe. The second is that floor mats have become loose and have trapped the accelerator pad. The second issue has caused incidents but is only happening in American models.

TOYOTA - PRIUS

There have also been reported problems with the brakes on the Prius. Some drivers have said that when they brake while going over a pothole, the brakes temporarily fail. Toyota insist that there is not a problem with European models, but it is investigating Prius models in America. (See top of page for latest)

HONDA - Jazz

Honda has also issued a recall for 646,000 of its popular Jazz model globally over a potential fault in the window lift switch which could cause a fire and is alleged to have killed a toddler.

The fault affects Jazz models built between 2001 and 2008 (not the current, Mark 2 version) . These owners are also being contacted through the DVLA.

What about my Insurance? Am I covered?

The Association of British Insurers has released this statement:
"The ABI confirms that motor insurance policies will continue to cover Toyota owners affected by the recall of certain models. Any claims will be dealt with in the normal way, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the policy. If they have not already done so, anyone who thinks they may be affected should contact their local Toyota dealer and follow their advice."