Toyota is recalling some of its most popular vehicle models because of a vehicle defect that involves cracks potentially forming in the engine, the result of a manufacturing error. According to a report in Car and Driver, coolant or oil could leak from the crack, leading to engine stalling, overheating, or possibly catching fire, the automaker has said.
Details of the Recall
The recall covers 44,191 vehicles and covers models including Toyota’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and includes the 2020 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid, 2019 and 2020 RAV4 and RAV4 hybrid, and the 2020 Lexus ES300H. Most vehicles, about 36,920, are 2019 and 2020 RAV4 crossovers. All the cars were manufactured between September and December 2019. The issue occurred when a water flow meter that regulates the casting of engines failed, leading to some engines not cooling correctly.
If the issue occurs, it could lead to problems like engine noise, engine smoke, warning lights, or engine overheating. Once owners bring their vehicles to a dealer, the dealer will check the serial number on the engine to determine if it is part of the affected batch. Dealers will replace the engine, including the engine block, for affected engines. By early April, owners will receive notice. In the meantime, they can also check the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recall site to see if their vehicle is involved.
Potential Auto Liability Issues
Auto defects could arise from manufacturing errors, such as what occurred in this case, or they may also arise from design flaws. Regardless of how and why they occur, vehicle defects such as issues with the engine, could result in car accidents, injuries or even fatalities. Engine problems, for example, could lead to oil leaks, fires and stalling engines – all of which have the potential to cause catastrophic crashes or fires.
Suppose you or a loved one have been injured due to a vehicle defect. In that case, you may be able to seek compensation for your damages and losses by filing an auto product liability lawsuit against the automaker and other potential parties. Injured victims may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering, property damage, and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to help injured victims and their families navigate what could be a complex legal process and help them secure fair and full compensation for their losses.
Source: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a30997060/2020-toyota-recall-camry-avalon-rav4-engine-cracks/
