Sticking pedal forces Toyota to suspend sales

Jan. 27, 2010

Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc. has instructed Toyota dealers to temporarily suspend sales of eight models being recalled for sticking accelerator pedals.

“Helping ensure the safety of our customers and restoring confidence in Toyota are very important to our company,” says 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 on Jan. 21, 2010. 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, according to the company.

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

2009-2010 RAV4,

2009-2010 Corolla,

2009-2010 Matrix,

2005-2010 Avalon,

2007-2010 Camry (certain models -- see below),

2010 Highlander,

2007-2010 Tundra and

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.

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.

For more information, click on Frequently Asked Questions for the Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall.