Toyota Canada recalls 200,300 vehicles to replace engine control module

Toyota Canada Inc. has announced another recall, this latest issue affecting over 200,000 vehicles because of engine control modules that may have been improperly manufactured.

Affected vehicles include approximately 136,000 2005-2008 model year Corollas and 64,300 of the same model year Corolla Matrix vehicles sold in Canada.

“Toyota Canada is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this condition in Canada,” the company said in a release on its website.


Today's announcement is part of a larger recall affecting roughly 1.1 million vehicles. According to Automotive News, this brings the tally of vehicles recalled by Toyota since November 2009 to about 12.3 million vehicles worldwide

On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, Toyota says there is a possibility that a crack may develop at certain solder points or on the electronic component used to protect circuits against excessive voltage (varistor), on the ECM’s circuit board.  

The manufacturer says if crack occurs, the most common issue is the illumination of the “check engine” light. Other issues could be “harsh shifting” or that the engine may not start.  

“In a small number of cases, should cracking occur on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven,” the company warned. 


As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced. Owners will be advised of the recall via mail beginning in mid-September.

A second notice will be sent when replacement parts become available to complete repairs.

Any owners who have previously paid for replacement of the ECM to address this specific condition should are advised to refer to the owner letter for reimbursement consideration instructions. 


“Toyota is committed to responding to the needs of our customers quickly and efficiently as well as ensuring that they are completely confident in the safety and reliability of their vehicles.”