More than a million Corollas in the U.S. and an unknown amount globally are recalled.
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 1.13 million 2005-2008 Model Year Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles sold in North America.
Defective engine control modules are the latest safety defect at the beleaguered Japanese company.
On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, a crack may develop at solder points or on the electronic component used to protect circuits against excessive voltage (varistor) on the ECM’s circuit board.
In most but not all cases, Toyota says if a crack occurs the check engine may illuminate, harsh shifting could result, or the engine may not start. In some instances, if cracking occurs on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.
Recalls!
There are three unconfirmed accidents alleged to be related to this defect, one of which reported a minor injury.
As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced at no charge to the owner as is required by U.S. regulations.
Beginning in mid-September 2010, Toyota will mail an interim notification to advise owners of this recall and the fact that they will receive a future notice when parts become available to complete the repairs. Owners who have previously paid for replacement of the ECM to address this specific condition should refer to the owner letter for reimbursement consideration instructions.
Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Saturday 7 a.m. through 4 p.m. PDT.