Toyota recall for faulty pedals

Jan 29 2010 Maurice Glover

THOUSANDS of Toyota models could be at risk from faulty linkages causing accelerator pedals to stick.

An investigation is under way to identify the number of vehicles in Europe likely to be affected by the problem, which led to the production of eight models being suspended in the US.

'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.

'This is caused because the accelerator pedal mechanisms concerned may become worn,' said the company.

In a statement, it said the wear, combined with certain operating and environmental conditions, could cause friction in the mechanism to increase and intermittently result in the accelerator pedal being harder to depress, slow to return or, in the worst case, stick in a partially open position.

'In case of occurrence, the driver may notice that the accelerator pedal is progressively harder to depress or is slower to return. A rough or chattered feeling may also be experienced when depressing/releasing the accelerator pedal.

'Toyota will implement a recall in Europe for this matter. The details of corrective action and implementation will be communicated directly to customers with vehicles potentially affected.

The models and exact number of potentially affected vehicles is under investigation.

'A running change in production using different parts has already been implemented model-by-model in the European production, so there is no need to stop production in Europe.'

Added the statement: 'While this condition is rare, we advise customers who have concerns to contact Toyota GB Customer Relations on 0800 1388744 for assistance ahead of the recall instructions being issued.'