Toyota Motor Europe is to recall eight models in a bid to solve the highly-publicised accelerator pedal problem with up to 1.8m units potentially affected.
The models are: Aygo (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009); iQ (Nov 2008 – Nov 2009); Yaris (Nov 2005 – Sep 2009); Auris (Oct 2006 – 5 Jan 2010); Corolla (Oct 2006 – Dec 2009); Verso (Feb 2009 – 5 Jan 2010); Avensis (Nov 2008 – Dec 2009) and RAV4 (Nov 2005 – Nov 2009). No Lexus or other Toyota models are affected.
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“Toyota’s policy is to put its customers first in all circumstances,” said Toyota Motor Europe president and CEO Tadashi Arashima in a statement.
“We understand that the current situation is creating concerns and we deeply regret it. We would also like to reassure customers the potential accelerator pedal issue only occurs in very rare circumstances. The announced action is a preventive measure aimed to guarantee the highest safety standards to all customers.”
The recall followed the European unit confirming yesterday (28 January) that 26 incidents – and possibly more – had been recorded since it since its accelerator pedal mechanism sticking problem had surfaced.
The manufacturer said it had “identified a remedy” although not details were available as evaluation was still ongoing. Customers will be told about the repair process as soon as possible.
Toyota said today: “A running change in production using different parts has already been implemented model-by-model for the models on sale in Europe. Therefore there is no need or intention to stop production in Europe.”
Toyota added it was not aware of any accidents although it advised owners with concerns to contact their nearest dealer.
