Two more recalls for Toyota Canada
Toyota Canada added two more vehicles to its growing recall list last week.
The first recall, issued Friday, affects over 270,000 first and second-generation 2WD Toyota Siennas, while the second “voluntary safety recall” affects 4,774 Tundra, Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models.
The Sienna recall stems from the possibility that frequent exposure to road salts could cause excessive corrosion of the spare tire carrier assembly. The company says the spare tire may become separated from the vehicle causing a hazard for other vehicles and potentially result in a crash.
A second recall statement posted on the automaker’s website concerns certain Tundra, Highlanders and Highlander Hybrids that are being recalled because of potential problems with floor mats.
The Toyota “tray-type” floor mat is an optional accessory for certain 2007 – 2010 Tundra, 2008 – 2010 Highlander and 2008 – 2010 Highlander Hybrids.
If the “tray-type” floor mat is not secured or not installed correctly, Toyota says, it could become lodged under the accelerator pedal causing unsafe and uncontrolled acceleration.
Toyota is asking its customers to remove the floor mat from the driver’s position and not replace it.
The affected customers will be mailed instructions on how to apply for a reimbursement.
These two latest safety issues come after months of worldwide recalls that has seen millions of models recalled for various engineering, structural and safety issues. Recall notices have been issued for problems including ABS brakes/steering hose issues, drive shaft and brake override complications and accelerator pedals concerns.
In a related matter, published reports indicated Toyota has agreed to pay a record US$16.4-millon fine in the U.S. for failing to notify officials of possible defects on accelerator pedals.
The fine, the largest ever issued to an automaker in the U.S., was slapped on the Japanese firm last month. There is no word on a similar fine being issued in Canada.
- With files from The Associated Press
