Toyota recalls another 2.3 million cars in US

TOYOTA has recalled a further 2.3 million cars in the United States to rectify a problem with sticking accelerator pedals as the world’s number-one car-maker battles the continuing fallout from an unintended acceleration scare.

A similar recall has been ruled out for Australia, with Toyota Australia saying local models use accelerator pedals from a different supplier.

"Toyota Australia understands that the recall announced in the US relates to a particular supplier of accelerator pedals,” Toyota Australia spokesman Mike Breen told GoAuto.

“The accelerator pedals for vehicles sold in the Australian market are provided by a different supplier."The latest recall is separate from a recall on 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles late last year to check accessory floor mats that could jam the accelerator pedal if they became unhooked. However, about 1.7 million vehicles are covered in both recalls, meaning about 4.8 million cars are subject to recall notices.

US Toyota Motor Sales group vice president Irv Miller said in a statement last week that the company had investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms “in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats”.

“Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position.

“Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.”

The recall covers all of Toyota’s top-selling cars in the US. These include 2009-2010 RAV4, 2009-2010 Corolla, 2009-2010 Matrix, 2005-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 Camry, 2010 Highlander, 2007-2010 Tundra and 2008-2010 Sequoia.

Toyota says that when the pedal mechanism becomes worn, it might be harder to depress, slower to return “or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position”.

“In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes,” Toyota says.

“The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure. The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.”

No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by this recall action.