Toyota Recalls 420,200 Vehicles to Due Faulty V6 Engine
Affected Cars: Camry sedan, Solara coupe, Highlander SUV, Sienna minivan, Highlander HV, Toyota Avalon
Toyota Motor Co announced today that it is conducting a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 283,200 Toyota and 137,000 Lexus vehicles to replace an engine that could hinder steering efficiency.
The engine in question is the V6. Specifically, the crankshaft pulley is presenting the main concern for the recalled cars.
A press release from the Japanese automaker read, "There is a possibility that the outer ring of the crankshaft pulley may become misaligned with the inner ring, causing noise and/or illumination of the discharge warning light. If this condition is not corrected, the belt for the power steering pump may become detached from the pulley and the driver may notice a sudden increase in steering effort."
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Toyota assured consumers that there were currently no reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition.
Customers of the motor company can utilize a search tool on the corporation's website to see if their personal vehicle is involved in the recall.
Models involved in the recall are the Toyota-branded Camry sedan, Solara coupe, Highlander SUV and Sienna minivan for the 2004 and 2005 model years. The company call back also covers the 2006 Highlander HV and 2004 Toyota Avalon.
This recall is the latest one in a reputation-damaging series that began in the fall of 2009 mainly involving complaints of unintended speed linked to faulty gas pedals and malfunctioning floor mats.
The motor company reported that it is in the process of getting a hold of the replacement parts that are necessary to repair the engine components in question.
In a press release, the company said, "Toyota will send owner notification by first class mail advising owners to make an appointment with an authorized Toyota or Lexus dealer to have the crankshaft pulley inspected and if necessary, replaced at no charge. First class mail beginning in January 2012 will mail the owner notifications."
A company spokesperson advised, "If an abnormal noise is heard coming from the engine compartment, the owner is asked to make an appointment with any Toyota or Lexus dealer to have the vehicle inspected for this condition."
