Toyota is adding 1.2 million vehicles to a major recall in the United States to fix possible fuel pump failures that could cause engines to stall. According to an Associated Press news report, the added vehicles bring the total to 1.8 million. In January, the Japanese automaker recalled nearly 700,000 vehicles in the United States for the same problems. Engine stalling can increase the likelihood of a car accident.
Details of the Recall
The company has not said if there have been any crashes or injuries relating to this vehicle defect recall. The recalled vehicles include trucks, SUVs, minivans and cars across the model lineups of Toyota and its Lexus luxury vehicle brand. The company says owners of the vehicles not involved in the January recall will be notified in early May about when to make a service appointment. Dealers will replace the fuel pump with an improved one.
Toyota began a probe into the fuel pump issue back in June. Toyota told the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in January that it was aware of 66 field reports and 2,571 warranty claims that relate to fuel pump failures in the vehicles initially recalled. Vehicle owners have complained about various problems in these vehicles such as rough engine running, the engine not starting and loss of power while driving at low speeds. Toyota said the incidents occurred more commonly in areas of the southern United States with warmer climates.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If a vehicle you own has been recalled, it is important that you confirm that information by visiting NHTSA’s website and entering your vehicle identification number or VIN. Once you’ve established that your vehicle has been recalled, it is important that you contact your vehicle’s dealer for an appointment to perform the repair. Dealers will typically perform repairs once the parts become available. Under federal law, these repairs should be done free of charge.
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a vehicle defect, you may be able to file an auto product liability claim against the automaker or the manufacturer of a defective part. Injured victims may be able to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/toyota-adds-11m-vehicles-us-fuel-pump-recall-69387526
