Toyota recall has global impact: sticking accelerator pedals and floor mats (videos, photos)

The unprecedented Toyota recall now has global impact as the recalled vehicles have spread across the United States, Europe, and China. More than 5 million vehicles are affected by the new recall due to sticking accelerator pedals. The newest recall and suspension of Toyota sales is separate from a previous recall regarding interference from floor mats with accelerator pedals in certain Toyota and Lexus models.

(Photo slideshow: Toyota Recall)

On January 21, 2010, Toyota Motor Sales announced a recall of 2.3 million vehicles due to sticking accelerator pedals. This recall was separate from a prior recall issued for 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles due to faulty floor mats. On January 26, 2010 Toyota announced that they would suspend sales of the following vehicles.

2009-2010 RAV4
2009-2010 Corolla
2009-2010 Matrix
2005-2010 Avalon
Certain 2007-2010 Camry
2010 Highlander
2007-2010 Tundra
2008-2010 Sequoia

Toyota will cease production on the above mentioned vehicles for the week beginning February 1, 2010. The following Toyota plants will be affected:

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Canada (Corolla, Matrix, and RAV4)
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (Sequoia and Highlander)
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky – Line 1 (Camry and Avalon)
Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (Camry)
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (Tundra)

With the number of recalls and different problems that Toyota owners are facing: sticking accelerator pedals and recall of floor mats, it’s no wonder that many Toyota owners are feeling confused. Toyota first announced that Toyota and Lexus models were at risk for potential floor mat interference with the accelerator pedal on September 29, 2009. Toyota advised that motorists remove the floor mats from their vehicles.  The new recall is not associated with floor mats and should not be confused as such.

The previous recall regarding sticking floor mats was amended on January 27, 2010 and additional Toyota vehicles were included in the recall. To read that release from Toyota click here.

The amendment increased the recall of Toyota vehicles for faulty floor mats by 1,093,000 vehicles. Toyota owners should contact their Toyota dealers to ensure that they have the proper floor mats installed.

The Toyota recall for sticking accelerator pedals was first issued on January 21, 2010. According to Toyota, the recall was issued due to reports of accelerator pedals sticking in vehicles that did not have floor mats installed.

In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats. Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.- TMS Group Vice President Irv Miller.

The release gives recommendations for what to do should you experience sticking accelerator pedals while driving.

In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes. The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure. The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.

If you are a Toyota customer and have any questions you may contact the Toyota Customer Service at 1-800-331-4331.
 

A Toyota Matrix is seen on the floor of the 2010 Washington Auto Show in Washington, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010. Faulty gas pedals have prompted Toyota to suspend U.S. sales of eight of its most popular models including the Matrix.(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Toyota expands recall to Europe and China: 1.1 million additional vehicles affected