Toyota Recalls Over 100,000 Vehicles in the U.S. for Potential Engine Failure
Toyota has announced a recall of more than 100,000 pickup trucks and Lexus SUVs in the United States due to a potential engine issue that could cause the vehicles to stall. The recall applies to certain Tundra trucks and Lexus LXs built in 2022 and 2023, equipped with Toyota’s V35A six-cylinder engine. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified a problem with debris that was not adequately cleaned out during the manufacturing process, which may contaminate the engine and lead to main bearing failure.
Engine failures can have catastrophic consequences, as the main bearings play a crucial role in allowing the crankshaft to rotate smoothly within the engine assembly. If the debris adheres to the bearings and the engine continues to operate under higher loads over time, it can result in engine knocking, rough running, difficulty starting, or even a complete loss of motive power. This loss of power while driving at higher speeds increases the risk of a crash.
Toyota first became aware of the issue in June 2022 when two pickup trucks exhibited seized engines. Technicians at the automaker hypothesized that debris in the engine was causing the damage. To investigate further, Toyota continued to dissect and analyze engines until May 2024. During this period, the company implemented cleanliness process changes at its engine manufacturing plants to minimize the possibility of engine contamination during production.
According to Toyota’s documentation, there have been 166 Toyota Field Technical Reports and 824 warranty claims related to this condition from U.S. sources as of May 20, 2024. These reports and claims were carefully reviewed and considered in the decision to initiate the recall.
While Toyota is still working on developing a remedy for the affected vehicles, the company has assured owners that all repairs related to this recall will be performed at no cost to them. Additionally, Toyota will reimburse owners who have already paid for repairs.
This recall highlights the importance of thorough manufacturing processes and quality control measures in the automotive industry. Engine failures can pose significant safety risks, and automakers must take swift action to address any potential issues that could compromise the performance and reliability of their vehicles. Toyota’s commitment to rectifying the problem and providing free repairs demonstrates their dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction and safety.
