In a follow up of sorts to a prior story, Toyota announced it has worked out an agreement with federal regulators to replace 3.8 million gas pedals that were getting stuck under floor mats and causing drivers to lose control of the vehicle.
The company will shorten gas pedals on some models and reconfigure the floor surface beneath gas pedals on 2005-2010 Avalons and 2007-2010 Camrys and Lexus E350s. The Camry, Avalon and Lexus models will also receive new brake over-ride systems to eliminate the possibility of the vehicle not being able to stop if the accelerator is stuck. Toyota will be including this over-ride system on all future models.
In addition to this massive recall from September, Toyota is also recalling approximately 110,000 2000 to 2003 model Tundra pickups – ones primarily driven in cold climates like Colorado’s.
Rust and corrosion has been found to form on the frame rear cross-member, especially in places that use a lot of road salt.
In the company’s November 24th press release, they warn of the rust causing the spare tire to break loose from the under-carriage, causing a big hazard to vehicles following the truck. Corrosion can also affect the rear brake line, causing higher probability of a crash.
Toyota will inspect the rear cross-member and either coat it with a corrosion resistant compound or completely replace the cross-member at no charge.
If you’ve been in an accident due to these defects, contact Colorado auto accident attorney R. Mack Babcock today to discuss your legal options.