Toyota Issues Recall Again after Bungling Initial Fix
Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling more than 780,000 RAV4 and Lexus HS250h vehicles for the second time after a problem with the suspension that was not properly fixed the first time. According to a Reuters news report, the SUVs and luxury sedans were initially recalled in August 2012 for rear tie rods, a suspension component, that could fail and cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. The Japanese automaker found out that some dealer mechanics did not correctly perform the repairs.
Automaker Finds Fixes Inadequate
Toyota apparently got reports from dealers that some vehicles experienced symptoms of the recalled condition even after being inspected or repaired. After an investigation Toyota determined that some inspections were not sufficient and that portions of the repair procedure may not have been performed correctly.
The recall covers 2006 through 2011 RAV4 SUVs and 2010 Lexus HS250h sedans made between October 2005 and September 2010. When the recall begins, dealers will do the new fix free of charge. Dealers will inspect the tie rods and replace any that are rusted or corroded. The components will then be coated with an epoxy to prevent future corrosion.
The Auto Safety Recall Process
Automakers are required under the law to recall defective vehicles or vehicles with faulty parts in a timely manner. The reason for this federal law is obvious. The safety and well-being of consumers is at stake when defective vehicles are still in the market or are being driven on our roadways. Once the automaker recalls the defective vehicles, it is their job to ensure that the faulty autos are properly repaired, at no charge to consumers.
Liability Issues
If a defective auto causes or contributes to an injury accident, injured victims can seek compensation from the automaker for their damages and losses. In cases where a victim is killed as a result of such an auto accident, the family of the deceased victim can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages. Victims or their families would be well advised to preserve the vehicle involved in the crash in its current condition, unaltered, so that an expert can thoroughly examine it for defects, malfunctions and other evidence. An experienced auto products liability lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.