lexus statement regarding consumer reports 2010 gX 460 handling test results

We’re concerned with the results of Consumer Reports testing on the Lexus GX 460 and their suggested buyer recommendation.  Our engineers conduct similar tests and we feel these procedures provide a good indication of how our vehicles will perform in the real-world; however, we will try to duplicate the Consumer Reports’ test to determine if appropriate steps need to be taken.  Please keep in mind that the 2010 GX 460 meets or exceeds all federal government testing requirements.  Customer safety and satisfaction remain our highest priorities.  We take the Consumer Reports’ test results seriously and appreciate Consumer Reports bringing it to our attention.

Customers who have any questions or concerns should contact the Lexus Customer Satisfaction at 1-800 25 LEXUS or 1-800-255-3987.

Toyota Announces 'SMART' Business Process for Quick Evaluation of Unintended Acceleration Reports

Dedicated Vehicle Evaluation Teams Will Lead Nationwide Rapid Response

TORRANCE, Calif., April 8, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced it has established a new SMART business process utilizing existing product engineers, field technical specialists and specially trained technicians to quickly and aggressively investigate customer reports of unintended acceleration in Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles in the United States.

The rapid-response Swift Market Analysis Response Team will attempt to contact customers within 24 hours of receiving a complaint of unintended acceleration to arrange for a comprehensive on-site vehicle analysis. Members are drawn from a group of 200 technical associates located across Toyota’s North American operations and will work in close partnership with Toyota and Lexus dealers. As part of the SMART program, dealerships will utilize structured business processes and materials to address owners’ concerns or reported experiences with unintended acceleration.

Steve St. Angelo, Toyota chief quality officer for North America, said, “As Toyota’s President Akio Toyoda told Congress in February, we are committed to listening to our customers even more intently and addressing their concerns even more promptly. Our multi-tiered SMART approach is just one of the many steps we are taking to make sure that Toyota sets an even higher standard.

“There has been a great deal of confusion, speculation and misinformation about unintended acceleration in the past several weeks. We believe judgments should be based on reliable evidence, and our SMART business process is there to help provide information upon which such judgments can be made. As we did in two recent, much-publicized cases in San Diego, California and Harrison, New York, we will continue to work in close partnership with law enforcement agencies and federal regulators with jurisdiction over accidents whenever requested,” St. Angelo said.

The size and configuration of each SMART team will vary based on the specific circumstances of each report and vehicle involved, and will incorporate engineering and product experts from across Toyota’s North American operations, including:

- Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) in Torrance, California
- Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) in Erlanger,
- Kentucky and Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Toyota Regional Sales Offices
- Lexus Area Sales Offices
- Private Distributors

Engineers from Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan are also expected to assist in some evaluations, as are specialists from other fields if warranted by initial findings.
Toyota has provided dealers in the United States with the information they need to assist vehicle owners with concerns about unintended acceleration and to arrange a SMART evaluation. The information includes guidance on how to help owners, ranging from those with concerns about their vehicle to those who report experiencing unintended acceleration and were involved in an accident.

Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com or www.lexus.com and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or the Lexus Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-255-3987.

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Source: http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/toyota-announces-smart-business-156380.aspx  

Toyota Statement regarding safety recalls and technical service bulletins

Toyota , like other automobile manufacturers, actively and continuously monitors field information related to our vehicles.  Our engineers and specialists look for data and trends that may indicate a vehicle performance issue.  If Toyota determines that a defect exists and decides that the defect is “related to motor vehicle safety,” per the Safety Act, the company will conduct a safety recall. 

In addition, for issues that are not “safety-related defects,” the company may decide to address a condition found in the field to enhance customer satisfaction.  Although safety is Toyota ’s primary concern, customer satisfaction will continue to be a centerpiece of our actions. Sometimes the company may address such issues through a Special Service Campaign (SSC), under which vehicle owners are provided a free repair.  In other cases, the company may issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), which is a communication between Toyota and its dealerships that can serve as an update to Toyota publications, describe parts updates, or relay enhanced or new service procedures. Service procedures may explain diagnostic steps, implementation of recommended updates, or how to perform certain repairs. A TSB is not a recall or a Special Service Campaign. If the cost of a TSB service or repair is eligible for warranty coverage, it will be specified in the TSB.  In general, the vehicle must be within the original warranty parameters and exhibit the concerns referenced in the TSB. A TSB does not extend the vehicle warranty.

Toyota makes all available TSBs accessible to the public by subscribing to our Technical Information System.   Toyota also submits copies of TSBs monthly to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and most of those TSBs are summarized on the NHTSA website for anyone to review.

Toyota and Lexus combined rank sixth in terms of the lowest number of recalls initiated since 1990, with less than 20 percent of the number undertaken by the company at the top of the list, according to the web site mycarstats.com 

In the interest of continuous improvement, we’ve launched a top-to-bottom review of all our operations, led by our President Akio Toyoda, to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the high safety standards that have defined our company.  We are making fundamental changes in the way our company operates in order to ensure that Toyota sets an even higher standard for vehicle safety and reliability, responsiveness to customers and transparency with regulators.

Toyota addresses false claims regarding 2002 technical service bulletin

Publicly Available Service Bulletin Addressed Drivability Issue Related to Transmission Torque Converter, Not Electronics or Unintended AccelerationAllegations Driven by Plaintiff’s Attorneys Suing Toyota

TORRANCE , Calif. , March 23, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc., (TMS) today addressed false claims regarding a 2002 Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) published by Toyota , as reported by CNN’s special investigations unit.

On the CNN segment, plaintiffs’ attorneys involved in litigation against Toyota and others, including Clarence Ditlow of the Center for Auto Safety, allege that the 2002 TSB proves Toyota knew of problems in its vehicles’ electronic systems that could cause unintended acceleration, and that the company and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conspired to keep this information from the public.  Both claims are patently false.

The 2002 TSB and software release in question were issued to remedy a drivability issue at speeds of between 38 and 42 miles per hour at light throttle.  This condition was strictly related to a function internal to the transmission torque converter under certain throttle conditions.  It manifested as a slight rocking motion, or surge, while holding steady throttle at the specific speed window.  This issue was in no way related to any kind of sustained acceleration.

The term surge has been used across the industry for many years to describe a condition where there is a very slight slow-down and speed-up perception (typically two miles per hour or less) while holding steady throttle at low to moderate speeds.

Powertrain software updates (typically released with TSBs) are designed to eliminate drivability concerns, including surge.  Toyota ’s 2002 TSB software release was not issued to resolve any computer software concerns or problems with the electronic throttle control system and was not related to unintended acceleration. 

Drivability concerns related to momentary surges are not unique to Toyota , and nearly every major auto manufacturer has published TSBs to address this type of issue in their vehicles. In the last ten years, nearly 80 TSBs related to this issue with corresponding repairs and/or software updates have been released across the industry.  

Mr. Ditlow’s claims that the 2002 Toyota TSB is a secret internal document that has not been made public are simply wrong, as are his allegations that Toyota and NHTSA kept this document from the public eye.  Federal law requires that TSBs from every vehicle manufacturer be made available to independent service providers and the public. From the published date, the Toyota TSB in question was publicly available through Toyota at https://techinfo.toyota.com as well as through a number of independent and government portals.

This 2002 Toyota TSB has also been previously reported on by other news outlets, and was also publicly discussed by Jim Lentz, President and COO of TMS, during recent Congressional testimony.

Toyota has sold more than 40 million cars and trucks with our electronic throttle control system with intelligence (ETCS-i), and the company is very confident that the system is not the cause of unintended acceleration. Toyota engineers have rigorously and repeatedly tested Toyota ’s ETCS under both normal and abnormal conditions including electromagnetic interference and have never found a single case of unintended acceleration due to a defect in the system.

Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to recalls are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Toyota statement on replacing accelerator pedals

Some news accounts have misinterpreted a letter sent by Toyota to its dealers regarding an improved parts ordering process for accelerator pedals to suggest that this represents a change in Toyota ’s policies regarding the remedies for its recent recalls.

Toyota is confident that the remedies it has announced to address sticking accelerator pedals and floor mat entrapment represent a comprehensive solution to these issues. However, if a customer is not satisfied with the modification to his or her repaired accelerator pedal, dealers will replace it at no charge.

This policy was included in Toyota ’s Defect Information Reports (DIR) filed with NHTSA in November regarding floor mat entrapment and in February regarding sticking accelerator pedals and is also contained in the official owners letters for those recalls.

toyota prius vehicle throttle and brake systems: myth vs. fact

Myth: The start/stop button on the dash will not turn off my Prius while it’s running.

Fact: On early to 2010 models with a push-button smart key system, pushing and holding the button on the dash for about three seconds will shut off the ignition system on the vehicle – even if it’s in gear and moving along the roadway. Newer models may have different control logic – you only have to press the button briefly to shut down the vehicle. Check your Owner’s Manual for details on your vehicle’s system.

Myth: The brake system on my Toyota Prius is not able to stop the car at speed with a wide-open throttle condition.

Fact: The brake system on each Toyota model is capable of overpowering the driveline to stop the vehicle – even with the throttle in a wide-open condition. See Car and Driver's article at: http://www.caranddriver.com/features/09q4/how_to_deal_with_unintended_acceleration-tech_dept for more information. Apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal – use two feet if needed, to bring the vehicle to a halt. Do not pump the brakes in these conditions, as this may overheat the system, causing a reduction in brake performance. Prius is equipped with a combination of hydraulic and electric regenerative brake systems. All Prius vehicles have a brake system program that reduces gasoline engine power if both the throttle and brake pedals are depressed at the same time. This feature helps reduce the chance of damage to the hybrid system transmission in the event of simultaneous brake and throttle pedal application by the driver, and also helps to slow the vehicle under these circumstances. The regenerative braking via the main electric motor will continue to function to help slow the vehicle.  

Myth: In the event you encounter a runaway vehicle, the first thing you should do is to turn off the ignition.

Fact: Although turning off the ignition is a possible course of action, the first thing a driver should do is to put the transmission in Neutral. This separates the driveline from the wheels, and gives the driver instant speed control over the vehicle, and allows the driver time to assess what is happening. This also allows continued use of the power steering and brake systems for an easier stopping operation. Pressing the start/stop button to turn off the ignition can be done as a next step. This will shut down power assist to the brakes and steering system – reducing their performance, but the driver can still brake and steer the vehicle manually in this condition. The steering column on Prius will not lock up when the ignition is turned off while the vehicle is moving – allowing the driver steering control. Traditional key type ignitions systems can be turned off while the vehicle is moving without locking the steering column – as long as the key is left in the ignition. Removal of the key may result in a locked steering column, and hamper driver steering control. After placing the transmission in Neutral, and the vehicle is brought to a stop at the side of the road, the final step should be to turn of the ignition.

Myth: The parking brake is effective in stopping a vehicle at speed. Fact: The parking brake may be helpful in that it can provide some additional brakeforce. However, the amount of brakeforce the parking brake applies will be negligible in a vehicle that is running at anything over paring lot speeds. Placing the transmission in Neutral and using firm steady pressure on the brake pedal will be the best way to bring the vehicle to a stop.

Myth: The transmission would not go into Neutral when an attempt was made to put it in Neutral.

Fact: Prius does have an electronic link between the shift lever and the transmission. The driver should place the Prius in Neutral by moving the shift lever to the “N” position – to the left side of the shift gate, and hold it there for a second – this will put the Prius transmission in Neutral. Firm application of the brakes will slow the vehicle down. Pressing and holding the start/stop button can be used as a final action to stop the vehicle if needed.

Myth: The harder I pressed on the brake pedal, the more the vehicle accelerated.

Fact: In a situation where it appears to the driver that the brake pedal has been depressed, but acceleration results, the driver should stay calm and take immediate action by moving the transmission shift lever to Neutral, use a firm and steady application of the brakes, then get to the side of the road and assess the situation. Neutral allows the driver to gain immediate control, and provides the driver with time to evaluate what is happening to the vehicle. Myth: Prius has an electronically controlled brake system, and I don’t believe it is as reliable as regular hydraulic brakes.

Fact: Prius does have an electronically controlled brake system which is as reliable as hydraulic brakes. This system utilizes both electric motor regenerative braking and hydraulic braking to stop the vehicle. The Prius system is able to recognize a fault in the regenerative braking system, and will send the driver’s brake input to the hydraulic brakes to stop the vehicle. Prius can also detect a fault in the hydraulic brake system booster, and allow all of the driver’s brake force to be directly sent to the two front brake calipers for maximum stopping power under a “no-boost” condition.

Myth: If I have a throttle stuck in the wide open position, and I put the vehicle in Neutral to help gain control of the vehicle, the engine will over rev, and be damaged. Fact: If you place your vehicle in Neutral with a wide open throttle, you will hear a lot of engine noise, but don’t be overly concerned by this. All Toyota gasoline engines have a rev limiter function as a part of the engine control program that will prevent over revving of the engine by cutting the fuel supply at a predetermined RPM. This RPM limit varies – depending on the engine type.

Myth: The Brake Override System will make it difficult to start my vehicle on a hill. Fact: The Brake Override System is designed to stop your vehicle when the brake pedal is firmly pressed in cases where there is acceleration caused by mechanical interference with the throttle pedal. For practical reasons – the Brake Override System will not operate when the brake pedal is depressed first – to allow for uphill starts, while limiting the vehicle’s tendency to roll backwards.  When engaged, the Brake Override System will disengage when the brake pedal is released. It will also not function at vehicle speeds of less than 5 mph, as at this point, the vehicle can be stopped safely.

Toyota responds to inaccurate reports of future prius recall for floormat entrapment

Media reports, citing a Wall Street Journal article, have incorrectly reported that Toyota plans to announce a new recall for the 2004-2009 Prius to address the potential risk for floor mat entrapment of accelerator pedals.

There is no new recall being planned for the Prius to address this issue.  To be clear, the 2004-2009 Prius was part of Toyota ’s November 2, 2009 announcement of a voluntary safety recall campaign to address floor mat entrapment in certain Toyota and Lexus vehicles.  This announcement can be found at our press room at: http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/lexus/toyota-begins-interim-notification-112086.aspx.Other models involved in this previously-announced recall include 2007- 2010 Camry,  2005-2010 Avalon, 2005-2010 Tacoma, 2007- 2010 Tundra, 2007 - 2010 ES 350, 2006 - 2010 IS 250, and 2006 - 2010 IS 350. On January 27, 2010, Toyota expanded the campaign to include the 2008 - 2010 Highlander, 2009 - 2010 Corolla, 2009 - 2010 Venza, 2009- 2010 Matrix and 2009 - 2010 Pontiac Vibe. 

The remedy process for these vehicles began at the end of 2009 and is occurring on a rolling schedule during 2010.  Owners of the involved vehicles that have not yet been remedied are asked to take out any removable driver’s side floor mat and not replace it with any other floor mat.

Owners who have further questions are asked to visit www.toyota.com or www.lexus.com or contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus Customer Assistance at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota Evaluates unintended acceleration complaints in remedied vehicles

ARI and Toyota Resources for Recall Information

Toyota recall notifications are available to clients through the web-based ARI insights® system. ARI posts information received through regular bulk recall updates from Toyota for vehicles currently in service.     Also, Toyota recently added a feature to it's owner’s website that allows customers to enter a VIN number and receive information on current recalls and service campaigns pertaining to that vehicle. Please be aware that the recall campaign information won't appear if the campaign has been completed. Click here to access the recall feature on the Toyota owner’s website: http://www.toyotaownersonline.com/sscinfo

Clarification of testimony regarding effectiveness of recalls

Contrary to some press reports, Jim Lentz’s testimony to Congress did not reflect a change in Toyota’s position regarding whether its recalls effectively address unintended acceleration issues in certain Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

As Mr. Lentz said in his opening statement, Toyota has rigorously tested its solutions and we are confident that with these repairs, Toyota vehicles will be among the safest on the road today.  Further, we are confident that no problems exist with the electronic throttle control system in our vehicles.  We have designed our electronic system with multiple fail-safe mechanisms to shut off or reduce engine power in the event of a system failure.  We have done extensive testing of this system and have never found a malfunction that has caused unintended acceleration.

Still, as Mr. Lentz pointed out in his response to questioning, Toyota is being vigilant in addressing consumer complaints and will not ignore any other possible contributing factors to unintended acceleration.  Instances of unintended acceleration can be caused by many factors and they are not all sudden or sustained. The category is very broad, affects all major automakers, and can include issues involving cruise control, air conditioning, transmission surges and pedal misapplication.  It is in this context that Mr. Lentz stated that Toyota’s recalls will “not totally” address the issue.  

Toyota Extends Brake override Feature To Provide An Additional Measure of Customer Confidence

Click here for more information about the Safety Recall Campaigns

Customer FAQs Regarding The Sticking Accelerator Pedal and Floor Mat Entrapment Recalls Click here for FAQs about the 2010 Pruis/2010 Lexus HS 250h/Camry Voluntary Recalls TORRANCE , Calif. , February 22, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A. , Inc, today announced that it will install a brake override feature on an expanded range of customers’ vehicles to provide an additional measure of confidence. This braking system enhancement will automatically reduce engine power when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are applied simultaneously under certain driving conditions. 

The following year models have been added to the list of vehicles which will receive brake override upgrade: 2005-2010 Tacoma, 2009-2010 Venza and 2008-2010 Sequoia. Toyota previously announced that the system would be installed onto the 2007-2010 Camry, 2005-2010 Avalon, and the 2007-2010 Lexus ES 350, 2006-2010 IS 350 and 2006-2010 IS 250 models.

The brake override feature is not an integral part of the recall remedy, but is instead being added as an extra measure of confidence for Toyota owners. It will be installed on Tacoma and Venza at the same time as the recall modifications are performed.

Notification to customers regarding brake override installation for Sequoia will be sent separately from the current recall campaign for sticking accelerator pedals.

In addition to upgrades on existing vehicles, this feature is scheduled to be incorporated into future new production of most models sold in the United States by the end of 2010.

“Expansion of this  brake override feature underscores Toyota’s commitment to building the safest and most reliable vehicles on the road, as we have for 50 years, and to ensuring that our customers have complete confidence in the vehicles they drive.” said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer of TMS. 

Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Toyota Intends to comply with NHTSA Request News reports:
Federal regulators have opened an investigation into whether Toyota Motor Corp. conducted all three of its recent recalls for unintended acceleration in a timely fashion, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said today.

Toyota Response:
Toyota takes its responsibility to advance vehicle safety seriously and to alert government officials of any safety issue in a timely manner. We are reviewing NHTSA's request and will cooperate to provide all the information they have requested.

toyota statement on north american production adjustments

Toyota 's North American manufacturing operations are taking measures to keep inventory at acceptable levels. The Kentucky plant will suspend production on Feb. 26. Three additional days in March-April are possible. The Texas plant will suspend production the weeks of March 15 and April 12. The Texas plant remains on schedule to begin its second shift on March 1 and to add Tacoma to the production line in late June or early July. [Note from ARI: Affected models include Camry, Camry Hybrid, Venza and Avalon (built at the Kentucky plant); and Tundra (built at the Texas plant).]

Toyota announces voluntary recall on 8,000 2010 model year tacoma 4WD Trucks to inspect the front drive shaft

TORRANCE, Calif., February 12, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc, today announced it will conduct a voluntary safety recall to inspect the front drive shaft on a small production run of certain 2010 model year Tacoma 4WD trucks.  The front shaft in approximately 8,000 vehicles may include a component that contains cracks that developed during the manufacturing process.  As those vehicles are used, the cracks may eventually lead to the separation of the drive shaft at the joint portion.

This condition only involves two specific front drive shaft production lot numbers installed in certain 2010 model year Tacoma 4WD vehicles. No other Toyota or Lexus vehicles are involved.  Dealers will be instructed to perform an inspection to identify the specific lot numbers located on the front drive shaft. Based upon the inspection results, in a limited number of cases, the front drive shaft may need to be replaced. The inspection is estimated to take ten minutes.  The inspection and/or replacement will be performed at no cost to the vehicle owner. Toyota will notify owners by first class mail starting in mid-March, 2010.

Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to this recall are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Toyota Motor Sales, Corporate Communications
(310) 468-5297
(310) 468-7359

GM Tests Show Vibe Brakes Can Stop Unintended Acceleration

General Motors has tested two Pontiac Vibe small SUVs and found the brakes stop the vehicle in case of unintended acceleration.

The 2009-10 Pontiac Vibe, a sister vehicle of the Toyota Matrix, is included in two Toyota recalls related to unintended acceleration, one for sticking accelerator pedals and one for possible floor mat entrapment. The Vibe was designed, engineered and manufactured by Toyota through August 2009 at New United Motor Manufacturing, which was a GM-Toyota joint venture. “We ran the Vibe wide open at 60 miles an hour and the brakes were able to bring the vehicle to a safe stop within 169 meters, consistent with our internal requirement for brake performance.” said Martin Hogan, GM director of brake systems.

In the rare case of a sticking throttle, a driver should apply the brakes firmly and steadily until you come to a stop. Do not pump the brakes, which can deplete the available vacuum boost from the brake system.

Any customer who experiences any accelerator pedal issue should immediately park the vehicle, and have it towed to their GM dealer for an inspection. GM and Toyota are determining how soon parts for a repair Toyota has identified will be available to GM dealers, where the Vibe repairs will be made. The Vibe braking tests were conducted by GM engineers on Saturday at the Milford Proving Grounds after several customers complained of sticking accelerator pedals following the Toyota recalls involving the Vibe were announced Jan. 21 and 27.

None of the complaints have resulted in a crash or injury.

Prior to the recall announcements, GM had not received any relevant customer complaints in the 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe. Nor were there any complaints found in a search of U.S. and Canadian databases. GM will communicate with the approximately 99,000 Vibe owners in the United States and Canada as soon as additional information about the recalls is received from Toyota.

Toyota Announces Voluntary Recall on 2010 Model-Year Prius and 2010 Lexus HS 250h Vehicles To Update ABS Software

Inspection of Power Steering Hose Position on Certain 2010 Camry Also Announced

Recalls Underscore Toyota’s Commitment to Address All Vehicle Quality and Safety Issues Promptly and Effectively TORRANCE, Calif., February 8, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc, today announced it will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 133,000 2010 Model Year Prius vehicles and 14,550 Lexus Division 2010 HS 250h vehicles to update software in the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS). No other Toyota, Lexus, or Scion vehicles are involved in this recall.

The ABS, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some 2010 modelyear Prius and 2010 HS 250h owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the ABS is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction.

Toyota has responded to owner concerns with a running production change for 2010 Prius that was introduced last month, improving the ABS system’s response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage. The production change for the HS 250h is planned for later this month.

“We’re committed to doing everything we can – as fast as we can – to restore consumer trust in Toyota, and these recalls are part of this effort,” said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer, Toyota Motor Sales. “We regret the inconvenience this recall will cause to Prius and HS 250h owners, and will do our best with the support of our dealers to make sure that it is conducted in the most trouble-free manner possible.”

Mr. Lentz continued: “As part of the quality improvement program announced by Toyota President Akio Toyoda last week, our company is undertaking a top to bottom review to ensure that our vehicles meet our own high standards of safety and reliability, now and for the future. We are taking steps to implement more stringent quality control
across the company, to investigate customer complaints more aggressively and to respond more quickly to any safety issues we identify.”

The recall will allow Toyota dealers to perform the software update on 2010 Prius vehicles sold prior to this running production change. Only Prius vehicles produced since May 2009 and all HS 250h vehicles are subject to this recall. First- and secondgeneration Prius vehicles use a different ABS system and are not involved in this campaign.

The ABS system on the Lexus HS 250h is similar in design to the Prius. The software adjustment planned for HS 250h production and dealer modification is being finalized and will be announced very soon.

Toyota will begin mailing letters to Prius owners included in this recall next week and HS 250h owners within the next few weeks, to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall.

Separately, Toyota will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 7,300 early production - 2010 model year Camry vehicles equipped with the 4 cylinder engine to inspect for a power steering hose that may be in contact with a front brake tube. This
contact could lead to a hole in the brake tube and cause a brake fluid leak, increased brake pedal stroke and greater vehicle stopping distance. Owners of the involved 2010 Camry vehicles will be notified by mail starting in the middle of February.

Detailed information about these recalls is available to customers at
www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331- 4331 or Lexus Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-255-3987.

1. What is the problem with the 2010 Prius?

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) in the 2010 model-year Prius, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of the brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the anti-lock brake system (ABS) is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction. 2. How is Toyota responding to this Prius issue?

Toyota has responded to owner concerns with a running production change for the 2010 Prius that was introduced last month, improving the ABS system’s response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage.
The recall will allow Toyota dealers to perform this software update in the antilock brake systems of 2010 Prius vehicles sold prior to this production change.

3. Why does this only impact 2010 Prius models?

First- and second-generation Prius vehicles use a different ABS system and are not involved in this campaign. 4. What is the problem with the Lexus HS 250h?

The anti-lock brake system on the Lexus HS 250h shares similar component design to the 2010 Prius, so it has been included on this recall.

5. How is Toyota responding to this Lexus issue?

The software adjustment planned for the Lexus HS 250h production and dealer modification is being finalized and will be announced very soon.

6. How many vehicles are impacted?

This recall involves approximately 133,000 2010 model year Prius vehicles and 14,550 Lexus Division 2010 HS 250h vehicles.

7. What should 2010 Prius and Lexus HS 250h customers do if they experience this braking issue?

If a Prius or Lexus HS 250h owner were to experience this condition, pressing hard on the brake pedal will stop the vehicle safely. 8. Are these vehicles safe to drive until they get their update?

The vehicles are safe to drive because pressing hard on the brake pedal will stop the vehicle.

9. When can I get my vehicle fixed?

Toyota will begin sending letters to Prius owners included in this recall by mail next week and Lexus HS 250h owners within the next few weeks to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall.

10. How long will it take for a dealer to repair my vehicle?

The software update should only take approximately 30 minutes to install, depending on technician workflow.

11. Is the repair covered by warranty? Will drivers have to pay any money out of pocket for this work?

Toyota will cover all repair costs associated with this work.

12. Is this recall related to the ongoing Toyota recalls associated with sudden unintended acceleration?

No, this recall is unrelated to the ongoing recall of Toyota vehicles for sticking gas pedals and floor mat entrapment issues.

13. What is the problem with the Camry?

On certain early production 2010 model year Camry vehicles equipped with the 4- cylinder engine, a power steering pressure hose in the engine compartment may be the incorrect length. If this condition exists, a crimp on the power steering pressure hose may come in contact with the No. 7 front brake tube.

Should this condition continue, a hole may wear in the brake tube and deplete the brake fluid in the vehicle. As a result, the brake pedal stroke will increase and lead to greater vehicle stopping distance.

14. Which and how many vehicles are involved?

Approximately 7,300 Camry vehicles in the U.S. are involved.

15. Are there any warnings that this condition exists?

No, there are no specific warnings that this condition exists.

16. What is Toyota going to do?

Any Toyota dealer will inspect and, if necessary, adjust the space between the brake tube and the power steering pressure hose crimp. Based upon the inspection results, the dealership may need to replace the brake tube.

The inspection/adjustment and, if necessary, the brake tube replacement, will be performed at no charge to the vehicle owner.

17. When will Camry owners be notified?

Toyota will notify owners by mail starting in mid-February 2010.

18. Where can I get more information on this recall?

Information for Toyota customers can be found at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Information for Lexus customers can be found at lexus.com and at the Lexus Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-255-3987.

Repair Parts Shipping to dealers in vibe recall 2010-02-08
Repair parts for the sticking accelerator pedal condition in the Pontiac Vibe will begin being shipped to General Motors dealers this week (Feb. 8).  Letters to Vibe customers will be mailed Feb. 16 with instructions to contact their Pontiac dealer after Feb. 22 to have a precision-cut steel reinforcement bar inserted into the accelerator pedal assembly. The installation will take about 30 minutes but customers may need to leave their vehicles with dealers for a longer period of time.

Customers will receive a second letter when a remedy is available for the recall covering floor mat interference with the accelerator pedal. For now, customers are urged to take out any removable floor mat and place it in the trunk of the Vibe and not replace it with any other mat. Customers who choose against taking out the removable floor mat are encouraged to check the operation of the accelerator, brake and, if applicable, the clutch pedals to assure the floor mat does not interfere with them.
ARI to Contact Clients Affected by Toyota Recall

Toyota will be administering their standard recall notification process to owners of affected vehicles.   Toyota has provided ARI with a list of vehicles impacted by the accelerator pedal recall campaign.  ARI will be proactively contacting drivers and/or fleet contacts informing them to schedule their vehicles for repair as soon as possible. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Toyota Recall, please contact your ARI representative. Toyota Dealers Nationwide Have Begun Fixing Accelerator Pedals On Recalled Vehicles Parts to Reinforce Accelerator Pedals Delivered to All U.S. Toyota Dealerships

Mailing of Notification Letters to Affected Owners Begins Today

Many Toyota Dealers Extending Hours, Hiring Additional Technicians to Complete Repairs for Customers Quickly and Conveniently TORRANCE, Calif., February 5, 2010 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that Toyota dealers nationwide have received the parts, information and training they need to fix accelerator pedals in recalled Toyota Division vehicles, and that repairs on involved vehicles have begun. The actual repair requires about 30 minutes of work. The company also announced that it has begun mailing letters to owners of recalled vehicles to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall. Upon receipt of a notification letter, owners will be asked to contact a local Toyota dealership to schedule an appointment to have their vehicle fixed.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety and reliability of the vehicles our customers drive, and we are determined to live up to the high standards people have come to expect from Toyota over the past 50 years,” said Jim Lentz, president and Chief Operating Officer, TMS. “Everyone at Toyota is focused on making this recall simple and trouble-free for our customers,” he said. “We’re working hard to ensure that our dealers have the resources and support they need to make sure our customers get their cars fixed quickly,” Lentz added. “The parts have been shipped, the dealers are trained, and they are already making the repairs. Many of our dealers are working extended hours – some 24/7– and adding service technicians and other staff to complete the recall campaign as conveniently as possible. I appreciate the efforts that our dealers are making to take care of Toyota owners.” Toyota’s engineers developed and rigorously tested a solution to address the potential for sticking accelerator pedals that is both effective and simple. A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the accelerator pedal assembly on affected vehicles, thereby eliminating the excess friction that has caused pedals to stick in rare instances. Toyota Dealers Going Above and Beyond to Take Care of Customers, Rebuild Confidence and Trust Toyota dealers across the country are taking extra steps to support customers during this recall. Many Toyota dealers will offer extended service hours, and some are planning to stay open 24 hours a day until all customer vehicles have been fixed. Others are adding greeters to their service drives, dedicating body shop capacity to expedite repairs, providing free car washes and oil changes, increasing owner communication and providing complimentary maintenance service, among other customer-focused activities. To support these efforts, Toyota is sending checks of between $7,500 and $75,000 to its dealers in acknowledgement of the additional costs they are assuming to make it easier for customers to have the necessary repairs done quickly and conveniently. About the Recall to Address Sticking Accelerator Pedals On January 21, Toyota announced its intention to recall approximately 2.3 million select Toyota Division vehicles equipped with certain accelerator pedal mechanisms that may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Toyota vehicles affected by the recall include: Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
• Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry
• Certain 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are involved in these actions. Also not involved are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and certain Camry models, including Camry hybrids, all of which remain for sale. Further, Camry, RAV4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) that begin with "J" are not affected by the accelerator pedal recall.

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. 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.

Separately from the recall for sticking accelerator pedals, Toyota is in the process of recalling vehicles to address rare instances in which floor mats have trapped the accelerator pedal in certain Toyota and Lexus models (announced November 25, 2009), and is already notifying customers about how it will fix this issue. In the case of vehicles covered by both recalls, it is Toyota’s intention to remedy both at the same time. Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to these recalls are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. For more information from ARI on the Toyota Recall, click here. Pontiac Vibe Update - Toyota Safety Recalls: GM has received many questions from dealers and customers about the recently announced Toyota recall campaigns for unintended acceleration.  Some of the inquiries have asked about the extent to which the Pontiac Vibe, a sister vehicle to the Toyota Matrix, also may be involved.

The Vibe was engineered and designed by Toyota and built by New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI), a joint venture between Toyota and General Motors.  We want to be as open as we can about these issues so our customers can feel confident about their vehicles and about what they should do.

In addition to the updated Q&A that follows, GM Fleet and Commercial would like to provide the following information:

·        Repair parts are being secured and a distribution plan is being determined yet this week.  Fleet requirements will be a part of that plan.  Parts will be at dealers the week of February 8th.
·        Repair procedures are expected the week of February 8th.  These will be communicated to GM Dealers.
·        Repairs can be performed by Pontiac dealers.  In the event that a Pontiac dealer is not convenient, any GM dealer is authorized to perform the repair.

To provide the best possible service to GM Fleet customers, we have trained staff at the GM Fleet Action Center, that are ready to answer any further questions or assist with part and repair issues.  These representatives can be reached at 1-800-FLEET-OP, Prompt 4 (800-353-3867; Prompt 4).

Q&A for Toyota Safety Recalls including 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe

Q1. Is it safe to drive the Pontiac Vibe?

A1. The field experience for the 2009 – 2010 Pontiac Vibe has been excellent.  While we initially had no complaints regarding unintended acceleration, since the Vibe was included in two Toyota recalls, we have received several complaints of alleged sticking accelerator pedals and some possible property damage. We are investigating each of the claims.  None of the claims we have received involved any reported injuries or fatalities.  Q2. What are the specifics of the recalls? A2. On Jan. 27, the Vibe was added to the Toyota recall population from October 2009 for possible floor mat entrapment population.

According to a National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) consumer advisory, when an accelerator pedal is depressed to or almost to the floor, as is done during attempts to merge onto a freeway or pass another vehicle at highway speeds, it can become trapped in the fully open position by an out of position or unsecured floor mat. As part of the October 2009 recall, Toyota issued a Safety Recall Campaign (Interim Notice) letter to customers to address the risk of floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal in certain Toyota and Lexus models, urging customers to take out any removable drivers' side floor mat and NOT replace it with any other floor mat until the campaign remedy is ready and implemented on your vehicle. Pontiac Vibe owners should take out any removable drivers' side floor mat and place them in the trunk and do NOT replace it with any other floor mat until the campaign remedy is ready for their vehicle.   Based on Toyota ’s instructions, if a driver experiences an accelerator pedal interference they should:

•   If  possible and safe to do so, pull back the floor mat and dislodge it from the accelerator pedal; then pull over and stop the vehicle.
• If the floor mat cannot be dislodged, then firmly and steadily step on the brake pedal with both feet. Do not pump the brake pedal repeatedly as this will increase the effort required to slow the vehicle.
• Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road, and turn off the engine.

On Jan. 21, the 2009-10 Vibe was included in a Toyota recall for possible sticking accelerator pedals. According to Toyota , if this situation occurs:

•  The driver can control the vehicle with firm and steady application of the brakes. Do not pump the brakes repeatedly because that may deplete vacuum assist, requiring increased brake pedal force. The engine can also be disabled by shifting the transmission to neutral.  After shifting to neutral, firmly apply the brakes and steer the vehicle to a safe location on the side of the road. Come to a complete stop, shift to Park, and turn the ignition key off.  
• Finally, park the vehicle, and have it towed to a GM dealer for inspection and repair.

Q3.  What will you do if I don't feel safe driving this vehicle? A3. Bring the vehicle into the dealer for inspection. Cases will be handled individually. Q4. Is the accelerator pedal in the Pontiac Vibe the same design as the Toyota Matrix? A4. Yes.  The Vibe and Matrix were designed and engineered by Toyota . Q5. Will GM be conducting a safety recall for the Pontiac Vibe? A5. Yes. Toyota has informed GM that the 2009-10 Pontiac Vibe is included in two recalls – one issued Jan. 21 for faulty accelerator pedals and, and a second recall issued Jan. 27 expanding a recall from October 2009. GM will issue recall letters to Pontiac customers when we have received the repair procedure from Toyota .  Q6. When will the Vibes be repaired? A6. Toyota has announced a repair procedure for the sticky accelerator pedals. GM and Toyota are working out details on parts availability and GM will notify Pontiac Vibe customers as soon as the details are worked out.  Floor Mat Interference and Accelerator Pedal In a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Jan. 27, Toyota indicated the repair for the Floor Mat Interference and Accelerator Pedal issue would involve:  

• Modifying or replacing the accelerator pedals on the subject vehicles to address the risk of floor mat entrapment, even when an older-design all weather floor mat or other inappropriate mat is improperly attached, or is placed on top of another floor mat. Floor surface modifications are also being considered and will be included in the remedy plan for any model for which it is deemed appropriate. Initially, dealers will be instructed on how to reshape the accelerator pedal for the repair. As replacement parts with the same shape as the modified pedal become available, they will be made available to the dealers for the repair.
• Customers who have had the pedal reshape remedy completed will have the opportunity to receive a new pedal if they desire, after replacement pedals become available.

Accelerator Pedal Sticking Toyota says the repair involves installing a steel shim about the size of a postage stamp   in the pedal assembly, behind the top of the gas pedal, to eliminate the excess friction between two pieces of the accelerator mechanism.   Q7. Can customers take their Vibe to a Pontiac dealer for repair? A7. Pontiac owners can take their Vibe to any Pontiac dealer for repair.  Go to www.pontiac.com for the location of the nearest Pontiac dealership. Customers also can go to any GM dealership for any repairs.  Q8. Are Pontiac Vibes still being sold? A8. No. Following Toyota ’s lead, GM has placed a stop sale order on about 1,300 Vibes in dealer inventory in the U.S. and Canada .  (If asked: There are only a few Vibes left in U.S. inventory; the remainder – but still a very small number – are in Canada . The last Vibe was built at New United Motor Manufacturing (NUMMI) in August 2009.  Q9.  How many Pontiac Vibe vehicles are affected by these recalls? A9.  A total of 99,293 with 70,799 in the United States and 28,484 in Canada .  Q10. How prevalent are reports of unintended acceleration in the U.S. ? A10. Based on "Consumers Reports" data, the following automakers had this number of 2008 model-year complaints:

  The above numbers as excerpted from the article at the following link;

http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2009/12/sudden-unintended-acceleration-sua-analysis-2008-toyota-lexus-ford-gm.html

Updated Statement from Toyota Regarding Prius Brake Issue

TORRANCE, Calif., February 4, 2010 – Toyota is aware that NHTSA has opened a Preliminary Evaluation centered on owner complaints of a braking issue with the 2010 model year Prius. Toyota will cooperate fully with NHTSA’s investigation.

Some customers have complained of inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the anti-lock brake system (ABS) is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction. The system, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. A running production change was introduced last month, improving the ABS system’s response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage.

This preliminary evaluation addresses owner complaints specific to the 2010 Prius. This condition is not related to either the floor mat entrapment recall or the sticky pedal recall currently in action.

Toyota will continue to evaluate the condition as it relates to owner complaints and will keep NHTSA informed of its progress.

Department of Transportation Addresses Toyota Safety Issues

WASHINGTON , D.C. – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today announced that it is opening a formal investigation of the Toyota Prius Hybrid model year 2010 to look into allegations of momentary loss of braking capability while traveling over an uneven road surface, pothole or bump.

The Office of Defects Investigation has received 124 reports from consumers, including four reports alleging that crashes occurred. Investigators have spoken with consumers and conducted pre-investigatory field work. “Safety is our top priority,” said Secretary Ray LaHood. “That is why in recent weeks NHTSA has also issued a consumer advisory on the recall of several models of Toyota vehicles and the Pontiac Vibe involving pedal entrapment and sticky accelerator pedals. We will continue to monitor these issues closely.” Late Wednesday, Secretary LaHood spoke with Toyota president, Akio Toyoda, who reassured him that Toyota takes U.S. safety concerns seriously and puts safety at the top of the company’s priorities. Consumer complaints about possible safety problems are one of NHTSA’s most important sources of information about vehicles. Officials review each one within a single business day and analyze the information to ensure trends are detected early. Of the 100 investigations NHTSA opens every year, there are currently 40 open defect investigations, three of which involve Toyota . NHTSA has the most active defect investigation program in the world, opening or closing an investigation almost every week. Over the last three years, NHTSA’s defect and compliance investigations have resulted in 524 recalls involving 23.5 million vehicles.

NHTSA is advising owners of vehicles affected by recent Toyota recalls to contact their local dealership if they detect a problem. For more information, consumers should visit www.nhtsa.gov or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

An Open Letter to Toyota Customers

February 2, 2010

Dear Toyota Customers:

For more than 50 years, Toyota has provided you with safe, reliable, quality vehicles and first-rate service. I am truly sorry for the concern our recalls have caused, and want you to know we’re doing everything we can – as fast as we can – to make things right.

We have launched a comprehensive plan to permanently fix the vehicles we’ve recalled because in rare instances, accelerator pedals can, over time, become slow to release or get stuck. We know what’s causing this and what we have to do to fix it. We’ve tested our solution rigorously, and we are confident that it works.

We’re working day and night with Toyota dealers to make our recalls simple and trouble-free. Here are some of the things we’re doing:

1. The precision parts we’ve engineered to reinforce the pedals are already being shipped and dealers are being trained to make the repair.

2. We’re writing to all customers affected by the Pedal recall, as well as the Floor Mat recall, to let them know how to schedule a convenient appointment with their local dealer.

3. Many of our dealers will be working extended hours – some of them 24/7 – and adding staff to get through the repairs as quickly as possible.

4. We’ve temporarily halted production of these models to focus fully on fixing this problem in the vehicles that are on the road. Our entire organization of 172,000 North American employees and dealership personnel is committed to you.

Some of the actions we’ve taken are unprecedented. Stopping production is never an easy decision – but we’re confident it’s the right thing to do for our customers.

Ensuring your safety is our highest priority. We’ll continue to do everything we can to meet – and exceed – your expectations, and justify your continued trust in Toyota.

Sincerely,
Jim Lentz
President and Chief Operating Officer
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Statement Regarding 2010 model year toyota prius inconsistant brake feeling

In certain 2010 model year Prius vehicles, Toyota has received reports that some customers have experienced inconsistent brake feel when the vehicle is driven over potholes, bumps or slippery road surfaces.

  Toyota is currently in the process of confirming these reports and investigating the vehicle driving conditions under which the reported phenomenon occurs. It would be premature to comment until the investigation has been completed.

Toyota Statement on Comments by
Transportation Secretary La Hood

TORRANCE , Calif. , February 3, 2010 – We appreciate Secretary LaHood’s clarification of his remarks today about Toyota’s recall for sticking accelerator pedals. We want to make sure our customers understand that this situation is rare and generally does not occur suddenly.   In the rare instances where it does it occur, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes.

Our message to Toyota owners is this – if you experience any issues with your accelerator pedal, please contact your dealer without delay.  If you are not experiencing any issues with your pedal, we are confident that your vehicle is safe to drive.

Nothing is more important to Toyota than the safety and reliability of the vehicles our customers drive.  Our entire organization of 172,000 North American employees and dealership personnel is working around the clock to fix the accelerator pedals for our customers.

GM Tests Show Vibe Brakes Can Stop Unintended Acceleration

General Motors has tested two Pontiac Vibe small SUVs and found the brakes stop the vehicle in case of unintended acceleration.
The 2009-10 Pontiac Vibe, a sister vehicle of the Toyota Matrix, is included in two Toyota recalls related to unintended acceleration, one for sticking accelerator pedals and one for possible floor mat entrapment. The Vibe was designed, engineered and manufactured by Toyota through August 2009 at New United Motor Manufacturing, which was a GM-Toyota joint venture.
“We ran the Vibe wide open at 60 miles an hour and the brakes were able to bring the vehicle to a safe stop within 169 meters, consistent with our internal requirement for brake performance.” said Martin Hogan, GM director of brake systems.
In the rare case of a sticking throttle, a driver should apply the brakes firmly and steadily until you come to a stop. Do not pump the brakes, which can deplete the available vacuum boost from the brake system.
Any customer who experiences any accelerator pedal issue should immediately park the vehicle, and have it towed to their GM dealer for an inspection.
GM and Toyota are determining how soon parts for a repair Toyota has identified will be available to GM dealers, where the Vibe repairs will be made. The Vibe braking tests were conducted by GM engineers on Saturday at the Milford Proving Grounds after several customers complained of sticking accelerator pedals following the Toyota recalls involving the Vibe were announced Jan. 21 and 27.
None of the complaints have resulted in a crash or injury.
Prior to the recall announcements, GM had not received any relevant customer complaints in the 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe. Nor were there any complaints found in a search of U.S. and Canadian databases.
GM will communicate with the approximately 99,000 Vibe owners in the United States and Canada as soon as additional information about the recalls is received from Toyota.

Toyota Announces Comprehensive Plan to Fix Accelerator Pedals on Recalled Vehicles and Ensure Customer Safety

Rigorously Tested Reinforced Pedals Will Eliminate the Excess Friction that Caused Sticking 

2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe Toyota Safety Recalls

GM has received many questions from dealers and customers about the recently announced Toyota recall campaigns for unintended acceleration. Some of the inquiries have asked about the extent to which the Pontiac Vibe, a sister vehicle to the Toyota Matrix, also may be involved. The Vibe was engineered and designed by Toyota and built by New United Motor Manufacturing (NUMMI), a joint venture between Toyota and General Motors. We want to be as open as we can about these issues so our customers can feel confident about their vehicles and about what they should do.

On Jan. 27, Toyota informed GM about its intent to expand its October 2009 floor mat recall to include 2009-2010 Vibe models. The Vibe models also are included in a safety recall announced Jan. 21 to correct sticking accelerator pedals. There are 99,293 Vibes in the United States and Canada included in the Toyota recalls. GM has not identified any incidents or customer complaints of sticking accelerator pedals on 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe vehicles.

In addition, we have been informed about Toyota’s decision to issue a stop sale order to its dealerships for the affected models. GM also has issued an order to stop sale of the 2009 and 2010 Pontiac Vibe units in dealer inventory in the US and Canada.
We don’t have all of the information that has driven Toyota’s decisions, but we intend to share more information when we can. We will communicate with affected Pontiac Vibe customers when Toyota informs us of its plan to remedy the vehicles included in the recalls so that customers can bring their vehicles to a GM dealership for repair.

Below are questions and answers that may be helpful in any discussions with 2009-2010 Vibe owners.

Q&A for Toyota Safety Recalls including 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe

Q1. Is it safe to drive the Pontiac Vibe?
A1. Yes. We have not received any reported incidents of a sticking accelerator pedal on the 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe.
• If a Pontiac Vibe driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partially open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the driver can control the vehicle with firm and steady application of the brakes.
• The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because doing so may deplete vacuum assist, requiring increased brake pedal force.
• The engine can also be disabled by shifting the transmission to neutral. After shifting to neutral, firmly apply the brakes and steer the vehicle to a safe location on the side of the road.
• Come to a complete stop, shift to Park, and turn the ignition key off.
• Do not turn the engine off when the vehicle is moving because doing so will cause a loss of power assist in the brakes and steering systems and will also disable the airbags.

Q2. Is the accelerator pedal in the Pontiac Vibe the same design as the Toyota Matrix?
A2. Yes. The Vibe and Matrix were designed and engineered by Toyota.

Q3. Will GM be conducting a safety recall for the Pontiac Vibe?
A3. Yes. Toyota has informed GM that the 2009-10 Pontiac Vibe is included in two recalls – one issued Jan. 21 for faulty accelerator pedals and one involving floor mats that could lead to unintended acceleration that was expanded on Jan. 27 from the original recall in October
2009. We will issue recall letters to Pontiac customers when we have received the repair procedure from Toyota.

Q4. When will the Vibes be repaired?
A4. Toyota will let GM know when a repair procedure is available. In a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Jan. 27, Toyota indicated the repair would involve:
• Modifying or replacing the accelerator pedals on the subject vehicles to address the risk of floor mat entrapment, even when an older-design all weather floor mat or other inappropriate mat is improperly attached, or is placed on top of another floor mat.
• Floor surface modifications are also being considered and will be included in the remedy plan for any model for which it is deemed appropriate.
• Initially, dealers will be instructed on how to reshape the accelerator pedal for the repair.

Latest News About Toyota's Safety Recall Campaign

Nothing is more important to Toyota than doing the right thing for our customers -- and restoring their confidence in the safety of our vehicles.  We deeply regret the concern that our recalls are causing for our loyal customers, and we are making an all-out effort to develop and implement effective remedies as quickly as we can.

Our highest priority is to fix the accelerator pedal problems for our existing customers.  We want to reassure Toyota owners that instances of sticking pedals are rare and generally do not occur suddenly. Toyota is currently in the process of recalling vehicles to remedy the issue of pedal entrapment and we have begun sending instructions to customers about how we will fix their vehicles.  Customers who have any questions or have experienced any issues with their accelerator pedals should visit Toyota.com, contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331, or call their local Toyota dealer.

We’ve identified the cause of the problem and are focusing all of our energy and resources on developing and thoroughly testing remedies. Our engineers have been working around the clock and we’ve been in direct communication with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) throughout this process. We also appreciate the opportunity to inform the House Committee on Energy and Commerce about our efforts to address this situation for our customers and we pledge our full cooperation with the Committee.

Toyota has taken the unprecedented step of stopping production to help serve our customers quickly and ensure that all new Toyota vehicles going forward do not experience this problem. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America (TEMA) has also been working closely with our pedal supplier CTS on a revised design that effectively remedies the problem. These pedals are now in full production at CTS to support Toyota ’s needs. At the same time, we continue to work with CTS to test effective pedal modifications for existing vehicles on the road that will be available to our customers as quickly as possible.

We appreciate the comments that Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood made today about the way Toyota has stepped up to meet our responsibilities to our customers, and we are determined to continue fulfilling our commitment to put our customers first.

Frequently Asked Questions For Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall and Suspension of Sales - January 28, 2010

Which models are affected by the recall/stop sale?

Toyota ’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles:

• 2009-2010 RAV4
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry
• 2010 Highlander except hybrid models
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma , Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids, which will remain for sale. What is the condition that has prompted Toyota to take this action?
In rare instances, there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. What is the likelihood that my vehicle will experience this condition?
The condition is rare and does not occur suddenly. It can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position. Are you continuing to investigate other models?
Toyota is confident that all models that contain the potentially sticking pedals have been identified. Why has Toyota stopped selling the affected vehicles? 
Until Toyota has finalized an appropriate remedy to address the potential for sticking accelerator pedals, a sales suspension is necessary. How long will this stop sale be in effect?
New cars covered by this recall will not be delivered until a remedy is finalized and then implemented. When do you expect to have a remedy?
We’re making every effort to remedy this situation for our customers as quickly as possible. What options are you exploring for a remedy?
We are reviewing a number of different options, and we hope to announce a remedy soon.   What should I do if I believe my vehicle is affected by this condition, i.e. I have noticed that my accelerator pedal is hard to depress, slow to return or is unsmooth during operation. What should I do?
The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance. What if you experience a sticking accelerator pedal while driving?
Each circumstance may vary, and drivers must use their best judgment, but Toyota recommends taking one of the following actions: • If you need to stop immediately, the vehicle can be controlled by stepping on the brake pedal with both feet using firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brake pedal as it will deplete the vacuum utilized for the power brake assist.
• Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.
• If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost.
• If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button. 
• If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel. If I am an owner of one of the affected vehicles, what action do I need to take?
Toyota is working quickly to prepare a correction remedy and will issue owner notifications in the future.  No action is required at this time unless you feel you are experiencing this condition.  If you are experiencing this condition, immediately contact your nearest Toyota Dealer for assistance. Toyota stated that this did not affect new/low mileage vehicles, has the situation changed?
The law requires that the entire universe of new vehicles identified in our recall notice must be included in the stop sale. Why are you stopping production at your factories?
Production is being stopped temporarily at five North American production facilities to assess and coordinate activities related to the recall announced on January 21.

What should I do if I still have questions or concerns?
If you still have questions or concerns that have not been addressed here, please contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. 
The Toyota Customer Experience Center hours are:
Mon - Fri, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PST
Sat, 7:00 am - 4:00 pm PST  

Amended Recall Potential Floor Mat Interference with Accelerator Pedal

On Wednesday, January 27, 2010, Toyota sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration amending Toyota ’s Defect Information Report of October 5, 2009 regarding the potential risk for floor mat entrapment of accelerator pedals in certain Toyota and Lexus models.  Toyota has decided to include certain other models in the campaign.  The specific model names and years associated with the newly-expanded population of subject vehicles for the pedal entrapment recall include:

• 2008-2010 Highlander
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Venza
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe

As of January 26, 2010 the total vehicle population increased by approximately 1,093,000 vehicles. Toyota 's remedy plan is to modify or replace the accelerator pedals on the subject vehicles to address the risk of floor mat entrapment, even when an older-design all weather floor mat or other inappropriate mat is improperly attached, or is placed on top of another floor mat.  Floor surface modifications are also being considered and will be included in the remedy plan for any model for which it is deemed appropriate. Initially, dealers will be instructed on how to reshape the accelerator pedal for the repair.  As replacement parts with the same shape as the modified pedal become available, they will be made available to the dealers for the repair. Customers who have had the pedal reshape remedy completed will have the opportunity to receive a new pedal if they desire, after replacement pedals become available. In addition, Toyota will replace any Toyota all-weather floor mat in a subject vehicle with a newly designed mat, free of charge. For those customers who have the previous design all-weather floor mat but do not need or want the newly designed all-weather floor mat, Toyota will recover the previous design all-weather floor mat and reimburse its price.

ARI Actions Underway Regarding Toyota Production halt - January 27, 2010 Given yesterday’s announcement (see below) from Toyota Motor Sales USA informing dealers to suspend sales of eight models as well as halting production of those models, ARI is taking the following actions:   

1. Identify and verify status of every affected vehicle order.   2. Work with Toyota to determine the actions to be taken and to firm up the level of support to be provided by the manufacturer.   3. Contact every affected ARI client to provide updates as more information becomes available and work directly with each client to address specific situations related to vehicle ord erin g.  

4. Because of the rapidly changing developments, ARI will provide updated information as Toyota makes it available on the ARI Manufacturers’ news webpage - http://www2.arifleet.com/news/ARI_response.htmYour ARI Client Support team is ready to support your fleet during this recall. Toyota Temporarily Suspends Sales of Selected Vehicles

TORRANCE, Calif., January 26, 2010 - - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it is instructing Toyota dealers to temporarily suspend sales of eight models involved in the recall for sticking accelerator pedal, announced on January 21, 2010.

“Helping ensure the safety of our customers and restoring confidence in Toyota are very important to our company,” said Group Vice President and Toyota Division General Manager Bob Carter. “This action is necessary until a remedy is finalized. We’re making every effort to address this situation for our customers as quickly as possible.”

Toyota announced it would recall approximately 2.3 million vehicles to correct sticking accelerator pedals on specific Toyota Division models. Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats. 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. Toyota ’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles: • 2009-2010 RAV4
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• Certain 2007-2010 Camry
• 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia

No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma , Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids, which will remain for sale.

Due to the sales suspension, Toyota is expected to stop producing vehicles on the following production lines for the week of February 1 to assess and coordinate activities.  The North America vehicle production facilities affected are:

•  Toyota Motor Manufacturing , Canada (Corolla, Matrix, and RAV4)
• Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (Sequoia and Highlander)
•  Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky – Line 1 (Camry and Avalon)
• Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (Camry)
•  Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (Tundra)

No other North American Toyota vehicle production facilities are affected by the decision to stop production.

The sticking accelerator pedal recall is separate from the on-going recall of Toyota and Lexus vehicles to reduce the risk of pedal entrapment by incorrect or out of place accessory floor mats. Approximately 1.7 million Toyota Division vehicles are subject to both separate recall actions.

Toyota owners who have questions or concerns should contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Update FAQ - Voluntary Safety Recall - Accelertor PedalFAQ for the Sticky Accelerator Pedal Recall

What is the condition that has prompted Toyota to take this action?

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

What is the likelihood that my vehicle will experience this condition?

The incidence of this condition is rare and occurs gradually over a period tie. It can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position.

What should I do if I believe my vehicle is affected by this condition,
i.e. I have noticed that my accelerator pedal is hard to depress, slow to
return or is unsmooth during operation. What should I do?

The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.If I am an owner of one of the affected vehicles, what action do I need to
take?

Toyota is working quickly to prepare a correction remedy and will issue
owner notifications in the future.  No action is required at this time
unless you feel you are experiencing this condition.  If you are experiencing this condition, immediately contact your nearest Toyota Dealer for assistance.

Toyota Files voluntary safety recall on Select toyota division vehicles for sticking accelerator pedal

• Lexus and Scion Models Not AffectedFiling Addresses Isolated Customer Complaints
• Separate From On-Going Recall Involving Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment Issue
  
  TORRANCE, Calif., January 21, 2010 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc, today announced it would recall approximately 2.3 million vehicles to correct sticking accelerator pedals on specific Toyota Division models. This action is separate from the on-going recall of approximately 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles to reduce the risk of pedal entrapment by incorrect or out of place accessory floor mats. Approximately 1.7 million Toyota Division vehicles are subject to both separate recall actions.

"In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats," said TMS Group Vice President Irv Miller. "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."Toyota's accelerator pedal recall is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles:• 2009-2010 RAV4
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2007-2010 Camry
• 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by this recall action. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids. The condition is rare, but can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position. Toyota is working quickly to prepare the correction remedy.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. 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.Toyota will continue to investigate incidents of unwanted acceleration and take appropriate measures to address any trends that are identified.

Toyota owners who have questions or concerns should contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Toyota Announces Details of Remedy to Address Potential Accelerator Pedal Entrapment

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) announced details of the vehicle-based remedy to address the root cause of the potential risk for floor mat entrapment of accelerator pedals in certain Toyota and Lexus models. For more information: Click Here

Toyota Consumer Safety Advisory - Floor Mat Update

The latest news about Toyota's consumer safety advisory for potential floor mat interference with the accelerator pedal in certain Toyota and Lexus vehicles: Click Here

Recent events have prompted Toyota to take a closer look at the potential for an accelerator pedal to get stuck in the full open position due to an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat.  A stuck open accelerator pedal may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.Toyota considers this a critical matter and will soon launch a safety campaign on specific Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Throughout the process of developing the details of the action plan, it will advise the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).Until Toyota develops a remedy, it is asking owners of specific Toyota and Lexus models to take out any removable driver’s floor mat and NOT replace it with any other floor mat. The following models are affected:

Should the vehicle continue to accelerate rapidly after releasing the accelerator pedal, this could be an indication of floor mat interference.  If this occurs, Toyota recommends the driver take the following actions:First, if it is possible and safe to do so, pull back the floor mat and dislodge it from the accelerator pedal; then pull over and stop the vehicle. If the floor mat cannot be dislodged, then firmly and steadily step on the brake pedal with both feet. Do NOT pump the brake pedal repeatedly as this will increase the effort required to slow the vehicle.Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF, or to ACC. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost.If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button.If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel.In the event owners choose not to remove their floor mat, Toyota strongly recommends that they ensure that the correct floor mat is being used, that it is properly installed and secured, that it is not flipped over with bottom-side up, and that one floor mat is not stacked over another. Information on proper floor mat installation can be found on http://www.toyota.com and http://www.lexus.com.Owners with questions or concerns, are asked to please contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center (1 800 331-4331) or Lexus Customer Assistance Center (1 800 255-3987), or consult the information posted at http://www.toyota.com and http://www.lexus.com.

EXAMPLE OF PROPERLY INSTALLED FLOOR MAT

- click here for Toyota & Lexus Carpeted/All-Weather Floor Mat Inspection, Application & Installation Instructions- click here for Toyota Carpet Floor Mat Application Information Chart- click here for Lexus Carpet Floor Matt Application Information Chart- click here for Toyota All Weather Floor Mat Quick Reference Chart

- click here for Lexus All Weather Floor Mat Quick Reference Chart