FAQ: Toyota recalls

On Feb. 1, 2010, Toyota announced a recall of vehicles to repair sticking accelerator pedals. On Feb. 9, the company recalled about 437,000 Prius and other hybrid cars worldwide to fix brake problems. Here are some frequently asked questions about the recalls and how the vehicles will be repaired.

BRAKE RECALL

There have beenreports of the 2010 model of the Toyota Prius temporarily losingsome braking ability on uneven road surfaces. There have been nearly 200 complaints in Japan and the U.S. of drivers experiencing a short delay before the Prius brakes kick in, and the brake problem is suspected in four crashes resulting in two minor injuries, according to data gathered by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Transport Canada says it has received five complaints in the past two months about the problem. The 2010 Prius has been on sale since last May.

Models affected

Toyota said it is recalling the 2010 Prius gas-electric hybrid that went on sale last year.

Also being recalled are two other hybrid models the Lexus HS250h sedan and the Sai, a sedan sold only in Japan.

Toyota is also recalling its plug-in hybrid, a largely experimental model for rental and government use, available in limited numbers and not for mass commercial sale.

How does Toyota plan to fix the problem?

The company says the problem canbe fixed with a software update.

Toyota says the problem has already been fixed for models sold since January, including those shipped overseas.

How can I contact Toyota?

Consumers can contact the company at 1-888-TOYOTA-8.

ACCELERATOR PEDAL RECALL

Toyota issued a recall of about 270,000 vehicles in Canada and 4.2 million around the world to fix a problem with sticking accelerator pedals. The company says in rare occasions, a friction device in conjunction with a spring in the accelerator pedal assembly may fail to operate properly.

"Due to the materials used, wear and environmental conditions, surfaces may, over time, begin to stick and release instead of operating smoothly," Toyota said in a news release. "In rare instances, the friction of the accelerator pedal may increase to a point where the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, become stuck in a partially depressed position."

How does Toyota plan to fix the problem?

The company plans on installing a reinforcement bar into the pedal assembly to eliminate excess friction that can cause the pedal to stick.

What models are affected by the recall?

The recall affects the following models:

• Some2009-2010 RAV4 models.
• 2009-2010 Corolla.
• 2009-2010 Matrix.
• 2005-2010 Avalon.
• 2007-2010 Camry.
• 2010 Highlander.
• 2007-2010 Tundra.
• 2008-2010 Sequoia.

Who will have their vehicles repaired first?

Toyota dealerships are contacting customers about inspections and repairs. Toyota vehicles owners with questions can call the company at 1-888-TOYOTA-8.

How long will it take for all the repairs to be completed?

All of the dealerships in Canada are expected to have the repair parts by the end of the week, but Toyota Canadanotes it could take up to a month for all of the affected vehicles to be repaired.The repair should take about an hour to complete.

How much will the repair cost?

Toyota will pay for the repairs on the vehicles.

What should drivers who have not had their vehicles repaired do if their car accelerates out of control?

In the event that the vehicle begins to accelerate uncontrollably, drivers should firmly press on but not pump the brakes. Drivers can also shift into the neutral position and apply the brakes to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. If drivers cannot put the car in neutral, they should turn the engine to OFF or ACC. Cars outfitted with an engine start/stop button should push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Drivers with a key ignition should turn the key to the ACC position to cut the engine. Drivers should not attempt to restart the car and should call a Toyota dealer for help.

How can I contact Toyota?

Consumers can contact the company at 1-888-TOYOTA-8.