• 27
  • August
    2010

Earlier this week, Toyota announced a recall of 1.33 million of their Corolla sedans and Matrix hatchbacks, saying a possible defect may cause engine stalls. The recall covers cars sold in the United States and Canada with model years ranging from 2005 to 2008. So far, three auto accidents and at least one other minor injury have been reported; however, Toyota has not confirmed a link between those accidents and the stalling problem.

This is the latest in a series of recalls by Toyota that has seen more than 10 million vehicles recalled since last fall. Other problems prompting Toyota recalls have included faulty gas pedals and floor mats that could lead to unintended or uncontrollable acceleration, steering problems affecting Toyota Avalons, and braking issues affecting their Prius hybrids.

The current problem is believed to be related to a defect in the engine control module, which is the computer that regulates the engine. Toyota has said that a crack on the circuit board could result in difficulty starting the car or could cause shifting problems that may result in engine stalls.

General Motors also announced that it was recalling 200,000 of their Pontiac Vibes for the same problem. According to GM, the Vibe was built as part of a joint venture with Toyota and uses parts similar to Toyota's Matrix. The suspected defect comes from a part made by Delphi Corp. Recall notices are expected to be sent out to owners in September. Both automakers claim they will replace the defective parts at no cost to consumers.

Toyota was fined more than $16 million by the government regulators earlier this year for not reporting safety concerns promptly enough. Since then, the car manufacture has promised to overhaul its quality control program and be more aggressive in addressing safety issues.

Related Resources:

Toyota recalls 1.33 million Corollas, Matrixes (The Charlotte Observer)