Toyota Recalls 280,000 Pickups, SUVs in US Over Engine Issue

Toyota is recalling approximately 280,000 pickups and SUVs in the United States due to a potential issue where the engine may not fully disengage in neutral. This could lead to the vehicle inadvertently creeping forward at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash. 

The recall covers certain Toyota Tundra, Sequoia, and Lexus LX 600 vehicles manufactured between 2022-2024. Toyota plans to address this by updating the transmission software, with affected vehicle owners to be notified by late April.

This recall is part of three announced by Toyota, including another 19,000 vehicles over a software problem affecting the rearview display in certain Mirai, Lexus LS, LC, ES models (made between 2023-2024), and 4,000 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles over safety concerns related to rear fold-down seat head restraints.

As the world's largest automaker faces an extended production shutdown, an emissions scandal, and a series of vehicle recalls, addressing quality control issues becomes paramount. Restoring consumer confidence will be critical for Toyota, with the decision on reopening production lines and resolving the emissions scandal playing a pivotal role in the company's standing within the automotive industry.

Recent Vehicle Recalls Highlight Industry-Wide Concerns

Amidst Toyota's challenges, Volkswagen joins the fray with a recall of over 260,000 vehicles due to issues with fuel tank suction pumps. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall stems from a problem with the suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, potentially leading to fuel flowing into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and, possibly, leaking out of the charcoal canister. The NHTSA warns that a fuel leak, coupled with an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.

The affected vehicles include various front-wheel drive models, such as the Audi A3 Sedan and Cabriolet, Volkswagen Jetta GLI, Golf SportWagen, Golf GTI, and Golf A7. Volkswagen plans to replace the suction pump free of charge, with owner notification letters set to be mailed by Apr. 12, 2024. Concerned owners can reach out to Volkswagen or Audi customer service for further assistance.

Adding to the industry's safety concerns, Ford has issued two recalls, affecting more than 150,000 vehicles in total, this month alone. The recalls involve models like Ford Expeditions, Transits, and Lincoln Navigators, addressing issues ranging from suspension and steering problems to malfunctioning seat belts. These recalls underscore the industry's ongoing efforts to prioritize consumer safety, with affected customers advised to seek free inspections and repairs at authorized dealerships.