Lexus Recalls 121,000 Cars for Fuel Leaks and Fire Danger
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury brand, is recalling about 121,000 cars globally for fuel leaks in the engine, which could pose the danger of fires. According to an Associated Press news report, the recall includes certain 2006 through 2013 IS350 cars as well as the 2010 through 2014 IS350C and the 2007 through 2011 GS350 and GS450h. All of the recalled vehicles have 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engines. Toyota issued a statement saying a diaphragm material in the fuel injection system can harden over time and crack allowing fuel to leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a vehicle fire.
The company would not say if this issue with the fuel leaks has caused any fires, crashes or injuries. When the recall begins in August, dealers will replace the fuel delivery pipe with a new one containing improved parts at no cost to consumers. You can check if your vehicle is included in this recall by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and including your vehicle identification number or VIN.
The Danger of Fuel Leaks
Federal motor safety law defines auto safety “as the performance of a motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment in a way that protects the public against unreasonable risk of accidents occurring because of the design, construction or performance of a motor vehicle, and against unreasonable risk of death or injury in an accident.” A vehicle defect could include any flaw in performance, construction or design. A safety defect is defined as a problem that exists in a vehicle or vehicle part, which could pose a risk to motor vehicle safety and may exist in a group of vehicles of the same design and manufacture.
The defects described in the recalled Lexus vehicles are particularly dangerous because they could potentially cause vehicle fires. It is curious why Toyota has declined to release information about whether the defects led to fires, accidents or injuries. Consumers deserve to know that information.
Auto Defect Liability
If you have been injured by a vehicle defect or vehicle part, you may be entitled to receive compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering and emotional distress. It would be in your best interests to retain the services of a renowned auto defect law firm, which has an excellent track record of independently investigating vehicle defects and holding automakers financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses experienced by consumers.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/lexus-recalls-121000-cars-to-fix-fuel-leaks-that-can-spark-fires/