Toyota Recalls Vehicles for Stalling Problems

Toyota announced two separate auto defect recalls to address stalling issues. According to a CNN news report, the recalls cover a total of 369,000 Toyota vehicles worldwide including 235,000 in the United States. The larger recall includes Highlander Hybrid models produced between 2006 and 2010 and Lexus RX 400h vehicles made from 2006 to 2008. In those SUVs, the transistors in the hybrid system can overheat, triggering a warning that in some cases can result in the vehicle unexpectedly stopping while in operation.

The second recall includes Lexus IS 350, IS 350C and GS 350 vehicles made between 2006 and 2011. These vehicles can also unexpectedly stop while on the road due to bolts in the variable valve timing control device coming loose. When the recall starts, owners of vehicles covered in this recall will be notified via mail.

Toyota Recalls

These safety defect recalls are yet another blow to Toyota’s reputation for quality and reliability. In June, Toyota announced that it was recalling nearly a quarter of a million Prius and Lexus hybrids because of a braking problem. Also, last October, the company announced a recall of 7.43 million cars due to a power window problem that posed a fire hazard. In April, the Japanese automaker recalled about 1.7 million cars due to airbag defects. Toyota’s largest and most-publicized recall came in 2009 and 2010 when more than 8 million units were recalled for sticky gas pedals and faulty floor mats that could cause sudden or unintended acceleration.

Auto Product Liability Issues

Defective parts in vehicles can be extremely dangerous because they increase the risk of a crash and serious injury or even death. In this particular case, both recalls involve vehicles that could suddenly and unexpectedly come to a stop when the vehicle is in motion. This could result in a collision.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective auto, it would be in your best interests to contact an experienced auto product liability lawyer who can independently investigate the issue and ensure that the negligent manufacturers are held liable. It is crucial that you preserve the vehicle so it can be examined thoroughly by an expert for any evidence of malfunctions and flaws. The best auto defect law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.