Due to various mechanical malfunctions, Toyota has issued a recall for more than 681,000 of its vehicles in the United States.
Approximately 495,000 Tacoma pickup trucks manufactured from 2005 to 2009 are being recalled due to a faulty part in the steering wheel, while an estimated 116,000 Venzas and 70,500 Camrys are being recalled due to a defective stop lamp switch.
The Tacoma’s spiral cable steering wheel assembly can become faulty with prolonged use. The friction caused by daily wear and tear can cause the driver’s side airbag to become deactivated, preventing it from working in the event of a collision. Owners of the Camry and Venza models may have trouble moving their shifter from the park position or even starting the car at all due to the silicon grease used during the manufacturing process.
Toyota will begin repairing Tacomas in April and will begin informing the owners of affected Camry and Venza when the company has the proper parts needed for the repairs. Owners of recalled vehicles will return them to the dealership for repairs, both of which the company estimates, can be completed within a half an hour.
As a licensed Long Beach car accident attorney, it is my hope that these vehicles are recalled and repaired before their malfunctions can endanger the lives of motorists. If you’ve been injured in an accident cause by a defective vehicle, please consider discussing your situation with a Ventura car accident lawyer.