1 The vehicles being recalled: Those recalled over sticky gas pedals are: 2009-10 Corolla; 2009-10 Matrix; 2005-10 Avalon; 2007-10 Camry; 2010 Highlander; 2007-10 Tundra; 2008-10 Sequoia; and 2009-10 RAV4. Over floor mat problems: 2007-2010 Camry; 2005-2010 Avalon; 2004-2009 Prius; 2005-2010 Tacoma; 2007-2010 Tundra; 2008-2010 Highlander; 2009-2010 Corolla; 2009-2010 Venza; 2009-2010 Matrix; 2007-2010 Lexus ES350; 2006-2010 Lexus IS250/IS350; and 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe. Affected by both recalls: 2005-10 Avalon; 2007-10 Camry; and 2007-10 Tundra. Brake issues: 2010 Prius and 2010 Lexus HS250h.
5 things to know
February 10, 2010 at 3:40AM
2 What should you do if your brakes get stuck? Stop the vehicle with a firm and steady application of the brakes. Do not pump the brakes. Then, shift into neutral and continue to brake until the vehicle comes to a stop on the side of the road. If you are unable to shift to neutral, Toyota recommends shutting off the engine, but do not remove the key from the ignition, which could cause the steering wheel to lock. Once you've pulled your car to the side of the road, shut off the engine and contact the nearest Toyota dealer. Consumer Reports has produced a detailed video on how to stop a runaway vehicle at www.consumerreports.org.
3 What can you expect about the repair? If your car is part of the recall, call your dealership. Toyota said the Prius problem can be fixed in 40 minutes with new software that oversees the controls of the antilock brakes. It said the repairs on the other recalled vehicles involves about 30 minutes of work. Customers won't be charged for the repair, it said.
4 What's next? The House is going to have two hearings, the first of which will be Feb. 24, about Toyota's recall of about 8.5 million vehicles globally over floor mats which can trap gas pedals, sticking gas pedals and brake problems. The Senate will hold a hearing March. 2. Also, corporate credit rating agency Moody's Investors Service placed Toyota's strong Aa1 senior unsecured long-term rating under review for possible downgrade. It comes amid reports that State Farm, the largest U.S. auto insurer, said it informed federal regulators late in 2007 about growing reports of unexpected acceleration in Toyotas. Federal officials also said they were examining complaints from Toyota Corolla owners about steering problems. 5 If you have questions, go to www.toyota.com/recall. Consumers can also call Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
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