Massive Toyota Recall Impacts the Safety of Millions

Toyota has made national headlines with a massive product recall involving eight different models of the Japanese automaker’s product line of vehicles. The recall involves approximately 2.3 million vehicles which are equipped with a specific pedal assembly that can stick, causing cars to uncontrollably accelerate. The models affected by the pedal recall include:

• Certain 2007-2010 Camrys
• Certain 2009-2010 Corollas
• Certain 2009-2010 RAV4s
• All 2009-2010 Matrixes
• All 2005-2010 Avalons
• Certain 2010 Highlanders
• All 2007-2010 Tundras
• All 2008-2010 Sequoias

Toyota has also decided to briefly stop production of the affected vehicles and focus on repairing the faulty accelerators. The recall will involve an installation of a reinforced pedal assembly on the accelerator pedal that eliminates excess friction, which is believed to be a cause of the pedal to stick in the affected vehicles. The recall allows owners to return their vehicles to Toyota dealerships for this fix which takes approximately 30 minutes to install. However, it is best to check with the dealer before you make the trip to ensure that they have the proper parts in stock to service your model.

The prospect of your car accelerating uncontrollably seems fitting for an action movie, but to have it happen in real life is a terrifying thought. If you own one of the cars affected by the recall and experience your gas pedal sticking, it is important to know ahead of time how to safely control the vehicle. There have been various reports in the news about ways to control a car whose gas pedal is stuck. However, some stories have provided questionable information.

Firm, steady braking is most important. According to a press release from Toyota, “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.”

These recalls have caused some people to think about auto accidents they and their loved ones have been involved in to consider whether their vehicle accelerator might have been a contributing cause to the accident. If you or a loved one has been in an accident that you think may have been caused by a vehicle defect, such as an accelerator that sticks, you can speak with a Houston car accident attorney at the Neese Law Firm about your vehicle collision or personal injury case. Call 713.355.1200 or log onto www.johnneeselaw.com. There is no charge for an initial consultation.


Brian Reed. Houston Car Accident Attorney The Neese Law Firm, P.C. represents plaintiffs in all types of personal injury and business litigation lawsuits in Houston, Texas and nationwide. The Neese Law Firm, P.C. was founded by attorney D. John Neese, Jr.