If you own a Toyota vehicle (or even if you don’t), you have probably
heard about the sticking accelerator pedal issue, recall, and
suspension of sales. There has been quite a bit of speculation and
numerous rumors around this potentially life threatening issue, so
Toyota has issued an FAQ to set all of the facts straight.
Read below for information on which vehicles are impacted, what the issue directly entails, what to do in case of an emergency, and answers to all other important questions directly from Toyota.
Frequently Asked Questions For Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall
and Suspension of Sales
Which models are
affected by the recall/stop sale?
Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined
to the following Toyota Division vehicles:
• 2009-2010 RAV4,
• 2009-2010 Corolla,
• 2009-2010 Matrix,
• 2005-2010 Avalon,
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry
• 2010 Highlander except hybrid models,
• 2007-2010 Tundra,
• 2008-2010 Sequoia
No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions. Also
not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris,
4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and select Camry
models, including all Camry hybrids, which will remain for sale.
What is the
condition that has prompted Toyota to take this action?
In rare instances, there is a possibility that certain accelerator
pedal mechanisms may, mechanically stick in a partially depressed
position or return slowly to the idle position.
What is the
likelihood that my vehicle will experience this condition?
The condition is rare and does not occur suddenly. It can occur when
the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the
accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in
the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position.
Are you continuing
to investigate other models?
Toyota is confident that all models that contain the potentially
sticking pedals have been identified.
Why has Toyota
stopped selling the affected vehicles?
Until Toyota has finalized an appropriate remedy to address the
potential for sticking accelerator pedals, a sales suspension is
necessary.
How long will this
stop sale be in effect?
New cars covered by this recall will not be delivered until a remedy is
finalized and then implemented.
When do you expect
to have a remedy?
We’re making every effort to remedy this situation for our customers as
quickly as possible.
What options are
you exploring for a remedy?
We are reviewing a number of different options, and we hope to announce
a remedy soon.
What should I do
if I believe my vehicle is affected by this condition, i.e. I have
noticed that my accelerator pedal is hard to depress, slow to return or
is unsmooth during operation. What should I do?
The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine
shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.
What if you
experience a sticking accelerator pedal while driving?
Each circumstance may vary, and drivers must use their best judgment,
but Toyota recommends taking one of the following actions:
• If you need to stop immediately, the vehicle can be controlled by
stepping on the brake pedal with both feet using firm and steady
pressure. Do not pump the brake pedal as it will deplete the vacuum
utilized for the power brake assist.
• Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and
use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and
turn off the engine.
• If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF. This
will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power
assist to these systems will be lost.
• If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly
and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the
engine. Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button.
• If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the
ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove
the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel.
If I am an owner
of one of the affected vehicles, what action do I need to take?
Toyota is working quickly to prepare a correction remedy and will issue
owner notifications in the future. No action is required at this
time unless you feel you are experiencing this condition. If you
are experiencing this condition, immediately contact your nearest
Toyota Dealer for assistance.
Toyota stated that
this did not affect new/low mileage vehicles, has the situation changed?
The law requires that the entire universe of new vehicles identified in
our recall notice must be included in the stop sale.
Why are you
stopping production at your factories?
Production is being stopped temporarily at five North American
production facilities to assess and coordinate activities related to
the recall announced on January 21.
What should I do
if I still have questions or concerns?
If you still have questions or concerns that have not been addressed
here, please contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at
1-800-331-4331.
The Toyota Customer Experience Center hours are:
Mon - Fri, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PST
Sat, 7:00 am - 4:00 pm PST
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