Toyota Announces Recall; 2.5 Million U.S. Vehicles Affected

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on October 15, 2012

Toyota’s recent recall affects more than 2.5 million vehicles in the United States and more than 7.4 million vehicles worldwide, according to a recent article in the Detroit Free Press. The recall seeks to fix a problem with the automatic window control switches that can lead to smoke or fire coming from the driver’s side door.

The recall affects several dozen Toyota models worldwide. The affected models sold in the United States include the popular Camry and Corolla, the compact Yaris, and various SUVs and sport vehicles, like the Tundra, Sequoia, and RAV4. It also affects two Scion models, the xB and xD. All the recalled vehicles were manufactured between 2005 and 2010. Owners may take their vehicles to a Toyota dealership for repairs.

The automatic window switches affected by the recall were installed without adequate lubricant, according to Toyota. Over time, their use creates friction, which causes heat to build up in the door. With sufficient heat, components in the door may begin to smoke or even burst into flame. Toyota’s officials state that they have not received any reports of injuries, but the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists 161 reports of fire and nine injury reports associated with the defective switches.

When you get into your vehicle each morning, you want to focus on getting to your destination safely, not on eyeing your vehicle for hidden defects that could hurt you or someone you love. At Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S., our Seattle auto accident injury lawyers can help you determine exactly what caused an injury and get the compensation you need, so you can focus on healing. Call us today at (888) 228-3860 for a free, confidential consultation.