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2006 Toyota Highlander

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Similar to other model years

Owner complaints for the 2006 Toyota Highlander do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 186.5.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

199 reports with mileage · 78 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Service Brakes. Review the 70 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Vehicle Speed Control. Review the 43 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 26 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

29 crash reports4 fire reports19 injury reports

Unknown Or Other complaints

8 reports
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Mileage unknown · Jul 12, 2024
Power TrainService BrakesUnknown Or Other

Two problems being reported are severe safety issues, and could result in injury, death, and/or property damage. Problem 1: While driving, the brake pedal suddenly went all the way to the floor, and the car would not stop. To avoid hitting the car in front at a stop sign, I had to turn the wheel, resulting in running through the…

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Two problems being reported are severe safety issues, and could result in injury, death, and/or property damage. Problem 1: While driving, the brake pedal suddenly went all the way to the floor, and the car would not stop. To avoid hitting the car in front at a stop sign, I had to turn the wheel, resulting in running through the stop sign and onto the grass and shoulder before the car finally stopped. Multiple dashboard warning lights appeared. After stopping, the brakes momentarily returned but failed again within 2-3 minutes. A loud, high-pitched, piercing whistle sound began, indicating a complete loss of brakes. The car had to be towed 200 miles back home. It is not safe to drive the car without functioning brakes. The OBD scan codes are: C1256 (accumulator low pressure), C1391 (abnormal leak of accumulator pressure), and C1256 (accumulator low pressure). Problem 2: When starting the car, the brakes are applied first, and then the car is placed in gear. The car involuntarily and immediately jumps forward or backward and continues to move, even though the brakes are being applied. Having the foot on the brakes has NO EFFECT on the car moving! The car should not move at all when the brakes are being applied. To stop the movement, I must quickly pump the brakes repeatedly. This occurs every time the car is placed into gear after starting the engine, causing it to jump forward or backward and continue moving despite brake application. Both problems are severe safety issues, and could result in injury, death, or property damage.

NHTSA ODI #11601445

Mileage unknown · Nov 16, 2021
Electrical SystemUnknown Or Other

While normally driving on the highway and without no warning the vehicle the power steering stops working , it just dies with no power and dash lights warning start to flash and Check Hybrid System turns on. I am not a mechanic nor a technician . The mechanic disconnected the ground cable after waiting about 5 minutes and it res…

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While normally driving on the highway and without no warning the vehicle the power steering stops working , it just dies with no power and dash lights warning start to flash and Check Hybrid System turns on. I am not a mechanic nor a technician . The mechanic disconnected the ground cable after waiting about 5 minutes and it resets the system. He told me that it has something that may be caused by some electrical problem . He thinks that it has to do with a recall about some soldering electrical part in the inverter control. This has happened in 3 more occasion and I've been lucky and i have time to let it go to side of the road and i disconnect the ground wire for 5 minutes and connect it back and it resets and then starts to work normal. Since the vehicle stalls completely i fear that this could cause an accident or lost of life due to other vehicles coming behind at high speeds . Please i need help!

NHTSA ODI #11440636

Mileage unknown · Nov 23, 2020
Fuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or Other

AFTER BEING DRIVEN OR IDLING FOR AWHILE, THE CAR STARTS CUTTING OUT. IT ACTS LIKE IT ISN'T GETTING GAS. I HAVE TO PUMP THE ACCELERATOR OR PUSH IT TO THE FLOOR. HILLS ESPECIALLY CAUSE IT TO STALL. IT WAS SO BAD, I HAD IT TOWED. THE SCAN SHOWED A OXYGEN SENSOR PROBLEM. HAD THAT REPLACED. IT DROVE OK FOR AWHILE. IT HAS RESUMED TH…

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AFTER BEING DRIVEN OR IDLING FOR AWHILE, THE CAR STARTS CUTTING OUT. IT ACTS LIKE IT ISN'T GETTING GAS. I HAVE TO PUMP THE ACCELERATOR OR PUSH IT TO THE FLOOR. HILLS ESPECIALLY CAUSE IT TO STALL. IT WAS SO BAD, I HAD IT TOWED. THE SCAN SHOWED A OXYGEN SENSOR PROBLEM. HAD THAT REPLACED. IT DROVE OK FOR AWHILE. IT HAS RESUMED THE STALLING. WHEN I READ THE RECALL, IT SOUNDED LIKE MY CAR WOULD BE INCLUDED. THE VIN # SHOWS IT NOT BEING ON THE LIST. PLEASE VERIFY BECAUSE IT CUTS OUT, ACTING LIKE IT ISN'T GETTING FUEL. THE AREA I WAS IN WAS A COUNTRY ROAD WITH NO SHOULDERS TO PULL OFF ON. IT ALSO HAPPENED ON A 4 LANE HIGHWAY. IF IT IS NOT A RECALL, ANY SUGGESTION WILL BE APPRECIATED. THE EXACT DAYS IN SEPTEMBER ARE AN EDUCATED GUESS. THANK YOU.

NHTSA ODI #11376015

140,000 miles · Nov 4, 2017
Unknown Or OtherVisibility/wiper

THE DRIVERS SIDE SUN VISOR FALLS DOWN WHETHER IN MOTION OR STOPPED, IT CAUSES A BLOCKED VISION WHICH CAN CAUSE COLLISIONS.

NHTSA ODI #11043185

146,000 miles · Jun 26, 2015
Unknown Or Other

THE DRIVER'S SIDE SUN VISOR BEGAN TO FAIL ON JUNE 13, 2015 WHERE IT WOULD NOT STAY IN ITS INTENDED POSITIONS, SNUG AGAINST THE ROOF OR WINDSHIELD, BUT COULD BE KEPT OUT OF THE WAY. ON JUNE 22, IT NOT LONGER STAYED IN EITHER FIXED POSITION BUT REMAINED DOWN, IMPAIRING MY VISION SIGNIFICANTLY. IT HAD TO BE HELD UP BY HAND UNTIL I …

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THE DRIVER'S SIDE SUN VISOR BEGAN TO FAIL ON JUNE 13, 2015 WHERE IT WOULD NOT STAY IN ITS INTENDED POSITIONS, SNUG AGAINST THE ROOF OR WINDSHIELD, BUT COULD BE KEPT OUT OF THE WAY. ON JUNE 22, IT NOT LONGER STAYED IN EITHER FIXED POSITION BUT REMAINED DOWN, IMPAIRING MY VISION SIGNIFICANTLY. IT HAD TO BE HELD UP BY HAND UNTIL I COULD GET HOME TO REMOVE IT.

NHTSA ODI #10730704

Mileage unknown · May 25, 2011
Exterior LightingUnknown Or Other

VEHICLE HAS ORIGINAL HEADLIGHTS THAT WERE IN IT WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR.THE BULBS ARE BURNING THE LENS OVER THE LIGHTS.I "DO NOT" DRIVE WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ON AS THE DEALERSHIP TRIED TO INSINUATE.NO DUMBASS DRIVES WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ON ALL THE TIME. TOYOTA CLAIMS BULBS ARE AN EXCLUSION ON THE WARRANTY.THIS IS A FACTORY DEFECT AND…

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VEHICLE HAS ORIGINAL HEADLIGHTS THAT WERE IN IT WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR.THE BULBS ARE BURNING THE LENS OVER THE LIGHTS.I "DO NOT" DRIVE WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ON AS THE DEALERSHIP TRIED TO INSINUATE.NO DUMBASS DRIVES WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ON ALL THE TIME. TOYOTA CLAIMS BULBS ARE AN EXCLUSION ON THE WARRANTY.THIS IS A FACTORY DEFECT AND SHOULD BE A RECALL ITEM.THEY WANT TO CHARGE THE PURCHASER TO REPLACE THE BULBS WHICH SHOW EVIDENCE OF OF DEFECT AS WELL AS THE LENS COVER.I WOULD LIKE TO SEE TOYOTA OR THE MANUFACTURER OF THE BULB REPLACE THESE ITEMS AT NO COST TO THE PURCHASER.EVEN IF THEY DON'T REPLACE THE LENS COVER AT LEAST REPLACE THE BULB WITH THE PROPER BULB.CAR HAS ALWAYS JERKED FROM THE TIME I PURCHASED IT.I THOUGHT IT WAS THE TRANSMISSION BUT TOYOTA CLAIMS THEY DIDN'T DETECT ANYTHING WHEN I TOOK IT IN FOR SERVICE FOR THIS ISSUE.

NHTSA ODI #10403437

Mileage unknown · Jun 18, 2010
Unknown Or Other

FUNNY HOW TOYOTA SAYS "TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS ......" BUT YET I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY KIND OF CORRESPONDENCE. THIS IS IN REGARDS TO THE LABELS RECALL. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10336957

3,500 miles · Jan 4, 2007
Unknown Or Other

TL* - THE CONTACT STATED THAT 2006 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LOST POWER WHEN HE USED THE VEHICLE FOR TOWING. WEATHER CONDITIONS VARIED, ROAD CONDITIONS WERE PRIMARILY ICY, GRAVEL, AND DIRT. THE ONLY WAY HE COULD GET THE VEHICLE TO MOVE WAS BY UN-HITCHING THE TRAILER. THE DEALER TOLD THE CONTACT THAT THIS WAS THE WAY THE VEHICLE WAS …

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TL* - THE CONTACT STATED THAT 2006 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LOST POWER WHEN HE USED THE VEHICLE FOR TOWING. WEATHER CONDITIONS VARIED, ROAD CONDITIONS WERE PRIMARILY ICY, GRAVEL, AND DIRT. THE ONLY WAY HE COULD GET THE VEHICLE TO MOVE WAS BY UN-HITCHING THE TRAILER. THE DEALER TOLD THE CONTACT THAT THIS WAS THE WAY THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED, AND IT WILL LOSE POWER TO PROTECT THE VEHICLE IF THE LOAD WAS TOO HEAVY. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AT 3,500 MILES AND AT 17,500 MILES. THERE WERE NO WARNING SIGNS BEFORE OR AFTER POWER LOSS. THE VEHICLE STARTED UP AND DROVE NORMALLY ONCE THE TRAILER WAS UNHITCHED. AK THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED, THE VEHICLE WAS PERFORMING AS IT WAS DESIGNED TO DO. UPDATED 01/29/07. *JB

NHTSA ODI #10177774

Official recalls

7

16V396000 · Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/cooler

Jun 2, 2016

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.

14V743000 · Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/cooler

Nov 19, 2014

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.

Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.

11V112000 · Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal

Feb 24, 2011

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 LEXUS RX330, RX350, AND RX400H VEHICLES. IF THE FORWARD RETENTION CLIP USED TO SECURE THE FLOOR CARPET COVER, WHICH IS LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE CENTER CONSOLE, IS NOT INSTALLED PROPERLY THE COVER MAY LEAN TOWARD THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND INTERFERE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY TEMPORARILY BECOME STUCK IN A PARTIALLY DEPRESSED POSITION RATHER THAN RETURN TO THE IDLE POSITION. A STUCK ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN UNINTENDED AND SUSTAINED VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FLOOR CARPET COVER WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED ONE FREE OR CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.

10V499000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder

Oct 21, 2010

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 LEXUS RX, AND MODEL YEAR 2006 LEXUS GS AND IS VEHICLES. BRAKE FLUID CONTAINING POLYMERS IS USED THAT ACTS AS LUBRICANTS FOR CERTAIN BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS. IF REPLACEMENT BRAKE FLUID IS USED THAT DOES NOT CONTAIN SUCH POLYMERS, OR THAT CONTAINS ONLY SMALL AMOUNTS, A PART OF THE RUBBER SEAL LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER MAY BECOME DRY, AND THE SEAL MAY CURL DURING MOVEMENT OF THE PISTON. IF THIS OCCURS, A SMALL AMOUNT OF BRAKE FLUID COULD SLOWLY LEAK FROM THE SEAL INTO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID COULD LEAD TO A CHANGE IN BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND OVERTIME A DEGRADATION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAL WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED ONE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 AND LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.

10V035000 · Equipment:other:labels

Feb 3, 2010

GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.

10V036000 · Equipment:other:labels

Feb 3, 2010

SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.

09V223000 · Equipment:other:labels

Jun 15, 2009

TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

2

RQ10003 · Unintended And Uncontrolled Acceleration

Opened Feb 16, 2010 · Closed Mar 1, 2011

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:software; Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

Additional source detail variants (6)

Electrical System:software

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

Electrical System:software

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

Electrical System:software

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal

On February 16, 2010, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened RQ10-003 to determine whether the scope of prior Toyota recalls relating to potential unintended acceleration were sufficiently broad, including, among others, Toyota recalls 07E-082, 09V-388, 10V-017, and 10V-023.NHTSA also requested information regarding potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.I. Pedal Interference from Floor mats, Carpet Covers and Plastic Pads in Carpets.During the RQ10-003 investigation, ODI reviewed a large volume of documents to assess whether additional vehicles should be recalled.Following the agency's analysis, NHTSA requested that Toyota recall additional vehicles.Toyota complied with the agency's request.The details of these recalls are set forth more fully in Toyota's reports to NHTSA pursuant to 49 CFR Part 573.These recalls are as follows:Recall 11V-112: (1) model year (MY) 2004-2006 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid; and, (2) MY 2004-2007 Lexus RX330,RX350, and RX400h (hybrid model). The total estimated population under this recall is 769,379 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by a loose floor carpet cover (trim panel). Recall 11V-113: (1) MY 2003-2009 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner; (2) MY 2006-2010 Toyota RAV4; and, (3) MY 2008-2011 Lexus LX570.The total estimated population under this recall is 1,381,000 vehicles.This recall supplements recall 09V-388 and remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment by an unsecured floor mat.Recall 11V-115: (1) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS300 (all wheel drive vehicles); and, (2) MY 2006-2007 Lexus GS350 (all wheel drive vehicles). The total estimated population under this recall is 19,647 vehicles.This recall remedies potential accelerator pedal entrapment caused by inadequate clearance between the pedal linkage and a plastic pad embedded in the vehicle's carpet.II. Potential Electronic Causes of Unintended Acceleration.After NHTSA opened RQ10-003, NHTSA launched a ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.NHTSA launched the study in the spring of 2010 in light of concerns aired in Congressional hearings.NHTSA enlisted engineers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to assess whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.That study has concluded.Two reports are associated with the study and are available on NHTSA's website.NASA's report is entitled Technical Support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the Reported Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Unintended Acceleration (UA) Investigation, NESC Assessment No. TI-10-00618 (Jan. 18, 2011).NHTSA's report is entitled Technical Assessment of Toyota Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Systems (Feb. 2011).Both reports should be read in conjunction with each other. As stated in its report, NASA did not find an electronic cause of large throttle openings that can result in unintended acceleration incidents. NHTSA did not find a vehicle-based cause of unintended acceleration incidents other than the physical pedal interference causes that are being addressed by Toyota's recalls. This RQ is closed.

PE06055 · Sudden Loss Of Power Steering Assist

Opened Nov 21, 2006 · Closed Mar 28, 2007

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:electric Power Assist System

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PE06-055 BASED ON TWO COMPLAINTS OF LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN 43,931 MY 2006 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES.ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS ALLEGED THAT A LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST RESULTED IN A CRASH.IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER FROM ODI, TOYOTA SUBMITTED INFORMATION ABOUT 6 ADDITIONAL CONSUMER COMPLAINTS, INCLUDING 2 ALLEGING CRASHES, AND 109 WARRANTY CLAIMS RELATED TO THE EPS ASSEMBLY IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI?S ANALYSIS OF THE CRASH INCIDENTS REVEALED THAT EACH INCIDENT OF ALLEGED LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST OCCURRED AT VERY LOW SPEEDS AND PRESENTED MINOR SAFETY CONSEQUENCES.TOYOTA'S RESPONSE ALSO IDENTIFIED THREE POTENTIAL ISSUES THAT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.TWO OF THE CONDITIONS ARE RELATED TO ELECTRICAL CURRENT SURGES WITHIN THE EPS ECU.THE OTHER IS RELATED TO EPS MOTOR MAGNETS BECOMING DISLODGED BECAUSE OF POOR ADHESION.THE TWO ISSUES RELATED TO CURRENT SURGES CAN ONLY OCCUR WHEN THE VEHICLE IS BEING PARKED OR BEING OPERATED AT VERY LOW SPEEDS.THE THIRD ISSUE COULD THEORETICALLY OCCUR AT ANY SPEED, BUT OCCURS AS A RESULT OF A SPECIFIC TYPE OF IMPACT TO ONE OF THE FRONT WHEELS.TOYOTA STATES THAT IN ALL THREE CASES, AND DURING ANY LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST TO THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT WHEELS CAN STILL BE DIRECTED WITHOUT ASSIST, MANUALLY, VIA THE STEERING WHEEL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF THE COMPLAINT DATA AND OTHER INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY TOYOTA INDICATES THAT THERE IS A LOW OVERALL FAILURE RATE FOR ALL OF THE CONDITIONS COMBINED THAT CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF EPS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES (18 COMPLAINTS PER 100,000 VEHICLES AND A 0.2% WARRANTY CLAIM RATE) AND THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY FAILURE THAT COULD CAUSE A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.THE CHANGE IN STEERING EFFORT IS GREATEST AT VERY LOW SPEEDS WHEN THE STEERING IS AT OR NEAR END OF TRAVEL.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Steering:electric Power Assist System

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PE06-055 BASED ON TWO COMPLAINTS OF LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN 43,931 MY 2006 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES.ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS ALLEGED THAT A LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST RESULTED IN A CRASH.IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER FROM ODI, TOYOTA SUBMITTED INFORMATION ABOUT 6 ADDITIONAL CONSUMER COMPLAINTS, INCLUDING 2 ALLEGING CRASHES, AND 109 WARRANTY CLAIMS RELATED TO THE EPS ASSEMBLY IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI?S ANALYSIS OF THE CRASH INCIDENTS REVEALED THAT EACH INCIDENT OF ALLEGED LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST OCCURRED AT VERY LOW SPEEDS AND PRESENTED MINOR SAFETY CONSEQUENCES.TOYOTA'S RESPONSE ALSO IDENTIFIED THREE POTENTIAL ISSUES THAT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.TWO OF THE CONDITIONS ARE RELATED TO ELECTRICAL CURRENT SURGES WITHIN THE EPS ECU.THE OTHER IS RELATED TO EPS MOTOR MAGNETS BECOMING DISLODGED BECAUSE OF POOR ADHESION.THE TWO ISSUES RELATED TO CURRENT SURGES CAN ONLY OCCUR WHEN THE VEHICLE IS BEING PARKED OR BEING OPERATED AT VERY LOW SPEEDS.THE THIRD ISSUE COULD THEORETICALLY OCCUR AT ANY SPEED, BUT OCCURS AS A RESULT OF A SPECIFIC TYPE OF IMPACT TO ONE OF THE FRONT WHEELS.TOYOTA STATES THAT IN ALL THREE CASES, AND DURING ANY LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST TO THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT WHEELS CAN STILL BE DIRECTED WITHOUT ASSIST, MANUALLY, VIA THE STEERING WHEEL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF THE COMPLAINT DATA AND OTHER INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY TOYOTA INDICATES THAT THERE IS A LOW OVERALL FAILURE RATE FOR ALL OF THE CONDITIONS COMBINED THAT CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF EPS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES (18 COMPLAINTS PER 100,000 VEHICLES AND A 0.2% WARRANTY CLAIM RATE) AND THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY FAILURE THAT COULD CAUSE A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.THE CHANGE IN STEERING EFFORT IS GREATEST AT VERY LOW SPEEDS WHEN THE STEERING IS AT OR NEAR END OF TRAVEL.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.

Steering

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PE06-055 BASED ON TWO COMPLAINTS OF LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN 43,931 MY 2006 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES.ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS ALLEGED THAT A LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST RESULTED IN A CRASH.IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER FROM ODI, TOYOTA SUBMITTED INFORMATION ABOUT 6 ADDITIONAL CONSUMER COMPLAINTS, INCLUDING 2 ALLEGING CRASHES, AND 109 WARRANTY CLAIMS RELATED TO THE EPS ASSEMBLY IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI?S ANALYSIS OF THE CRASH INCIDENTS REVEALED THAT EACH INCIDENT OF ALLEGED LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST OCCURRED AT VERY LOW SPEEDS AND PRESENTED MINOR SAFETY CONSEQUENCES.TOYOTA'S RESPONSE ALSO IDENTIFIED THREE POTENTIAL ISSUES THAT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.TWO OF THE CONDITIONS ARE RELATED TO ELECTRICAL CURRENT SURGES WITHIN THE EPS ECU.THE OTHER IS RELATED TO EPS MOTOR MAGNETS BECOMING DISLODGED BECAUSE OF POOR ADHESION.THE TWO ISSUES RELATED TO CURRENT SURGES CAN ONLY OCCUR WHEN THE VEHICLE IS BEING PARKED OR BEING OPERATED AT VERY LOW SPEEDS.THE THIRD ISSUE COULD THEORETICALLY OCCUR AT ANY SPEED, BUT OCCURS AS A RESULT OF A SPECIFIC TYPE OF IMPACT TO ONE OF THE FRONT WHEELS.TOYOTA STATES THAT IN ALL THREE CASES, AND DURING ANY LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST TO THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT WHEELS CAN STILL BE DIRECTED WITHOUT ASSIST, MANUALLY, VIA THE STEERING WHEEL. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF THE COMPLAINT DATA AND OTHER INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY TOYOTA INDICATES THAT THERE IS A LOW OVERALL FAILURE RATE FOR ALL OF THE CONDITIONS COMBINED THAT CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF EPS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES (18 COMPLAINTS PER 100,000 VEHICLES AND A 0.2% WARRANTY CLAIM RATE) AND THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY FAILURE THAT COULD CAUSE A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.THE CHANGE IN STEERING EFFORT IS GREATEST AT VERY LOW SPEEDS WHEN THE STEERING IS AT OR NEAR END OF TRAVEL.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR COMPLAINTS AND OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN THE FUTURE IF WARRANTED.