It has been a difficult few years for automaker Toyota. In the last two years, Toyota has recalled millions of vehicles. In fact, by some counts they have conducted eight separate recalls in less than one year. Several auto accidents have been blamed on Toyota products and a number of products liability suits have been filed. Now, it seems we may be on the verge of two more Toyota-related recalls.
Last Friday, Toyota halted sales and began recalling about 17,000 Lexus HS 250h gasoline-electric hybrids due to a potential fuel leak problem. Apparently, U.S. government crash tests showed a potential for fuel leaks if the car were to be involved in an accident while traveling at more than 50 miles per hour. No accidents have yet been reported in relation to this problem.
Today, news began appearing out of Tokyo that Toyota officials were considering a possible recall of up to 270,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles due to potential engine stalling problems. As with the fuel-leak issues, no injuries or accidents related to this problem have yet been reported.
Among those models affected by the engine stalling issues are 4.6-liter and 3.6-liter engines, including Lexus models GS 350, GS 450h, IS 350, LS 460, LS 600h L, and the Toyota Crown. Toyota has said that decisions made by U.S. government regulators will determine if a full recall action is taken.
Among the reasons for previous Toyota recalls, include faulty floor mats leading to stuck acceleration pedals, “sticky” acceleration pedals, braking problems, drive shaft defects, rusty spare tire cables, and steering wheel alignment problems.
Related Resources:
Toyota considering another recall: engines may stall (Reuters)
