Toyotas Recalled Again

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) made an announcement on November 9, 2011, that Toyota is in the process of recalling approximately 420,326 model year 2004 Avalon vehicles, 2004 and 2005 Camry, Camry Solara, Highlander, and Sienna vehicles. It is also recalling 2006 Highlander Hybrid; 2004 and 2005 Lexus ES330 and RX330 as well as 2006 Lexus RX400H vehicles, manufactured from June 1, 2004 through March 31, 2005, have in common the 1MZ-FE or 3MZ-FE engine. This brings back haunting memories of the Toyota recalls and the incidents of “runaway Toyotas” across the country that allegedly resulted in drivers losing control of their vehicles, which would launch into high speed, terrifying rides that could not be brought under control and sometimes resulted in the deaths of drivers.

 

According to the NHTSA, this most recent recall is caused by a “crankshaft pulley problem” that could possibly make the belt for the power steering pump become detached, and that could result in a loss of power steering and a sudden increase in steering effort – all of which may ultimately increase the risk of a crash. The problem seems to stem from the amount of adhesive used between the outer ring and rubber torsional inner ring damper in the crankshaft pulley in certain engines being insufficient. Without the adequate amount of adhesive, the outer ring may slip out of place and fail to rotate with the inner ring, causing noise and possible malfunction. Consumers are naturally alarmed by this latest development in Toyota’s declining car building skills. Many have lost faith in the company that once enjoyed a reputation of excellence in safety and manufacturing.

 

Toyota is in the process of notifying all affected owners. Further, it has agreed to have its dealers check the crankshaft pulley to learn whether the pulley was provided by a U.S. supplier. If that turns out the be the case, Toyota has authorized Toyota dealers to replace the pulley at no cost to the driver. The trouble is, if the part was not provided by a U.S. supplier, Toyota has not said what is to become of those car owners or how their cars are to be repaired.

 

In mid-January 2012, this recall goes into effect, and any concerned owners may call Toytota at 1-800-331-4331. The National Traffic Highway Administration hotline can be reached at 1-888-327-4236.