Toyota Announces Voluntary Safety Recall on Certain Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix Models
August 26, 2010 - Torrance, CA., - 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 the United States to address some Engine Control Modules (ECM) that may have
been improperly manufactured. No other Toyota or Lexus vehicles are involved in
this recall.
On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, 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. In most cases, if a crack occurs at certain solder points or on
certain varistors, the check engine may illuminate, harsh shifting could result,
or the engine may not start. In limited instances, if cracking occurs on particular
solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.
There are three unconfirmed accidents alleged to be related to this condition,
one of which reported a minor injury.
Steve St. Angelo, Toyota chief quality officer for North America, said, “This
recall is an example of our commitment to standing by our products and being responsive
to our customers. Our goal is to help ensure that Toyota drivers are completely
confident in the safety and reliability of their vehicles.”
As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced at no charge
to the owner. 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.