The Issue

On January 21, Toyota announced its intention to recall more than 2.3 million vehicles equipped with a specific pedal assembly and suspended sales of the eight models involved in the recall on January 26. Production of new cars has been suspended as of February 1st.

Toyota vehicles affected by the recall include:

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

What do you do in the event your gas pedal sticks?

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

What is Toyota doing?

Toyota says they have pinpointed the issue that could cause accelerator pedals to stick in a partially open position. The repair involves a friction device in the pedal designed to provide the proper “feel” by adding resistance and making the pedal steady and stable. The device includes a shoe that rubs against an adjoining surface during normal pedal operation. Due to the materials used, wear and environmental conditions, these surfaces may begin to stick and release instead of operating smoothly. In some cases, friction could increase to a point that the pedal is slow to return to the idle position or, in rare cases, the pedal sticks, leaving the throttle partially open.

Toyota’s solution: A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the assembly that will reduce the surface tension between the friction shoe and the adjoining surface. With this reinforcement in place, the excess friction that can cause the pedalto stick is eliminated.

Currently parts are being shipped to dealerships and training for the recall is underway. With over 2.3 million affected vehicles, some dealers are planning to be open 24 hours if necessary to complete the recall in a timely fashion. The repair will take approximately 30 minutes to complete according to Toyota.

At the time of this release, the NHTSA has not approved Toyota’s plan of action with regard to this recall.

Information about issues related to this recall are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.