NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Engine complaints
23 reportsClear category filter148,000 miles · Apr 18, 2017
Engine
OIL COOLER HOSE BURST IN CAR. YO HAVE ABOUT 20 SECONDS TO TURN THE ENGINE OFF BEFORE IT SEIZES UP BECAUSE ALL THE OIL IS POURING OUT OF THE CAR. WE HAD IT TOWED TO MIDAS DEALERSHIP AND THEY FIXED IT. I CALLED TOYOTA BECAUSE I NOTICED THEY HAD A CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM COVERING THIS PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD IF I WOULD HAVE TAKEN IT…
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OIL COOLER HOSE BURST IN CAR. YO HAVE ABOUT 20 SECONDS TO TURN THE ENGINE OFF BEFORE IT SEIZES UP BECAUSE ALL THE OIL IS POURING OUT OF THE CAR. WE HAD IT TOWED TO MIDAS DEALERSHIP AND THEY FIXED IT. I CALLED TOYOTA BECAUSE I NOTICED THEY HAD A CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM COVERING THIS PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD IF I WOULD HAVE TAKEN IT STRAIGHT TO THE DEALERSHIP, IT WOULD BE COVERED BUT INSTEAD I HAD TO SUBMIT PAPERWORK WHICH I DID. WELL IT IS NOT COVERED. THEY ARE CLAIMING THAT THE PART ON THE INVOICE IS NOT COVERED. HOWEVER, THE OIL COOLER HOSE THAT BURST WHICH IS ORIGINAL TO THE CAR WAS RUBBER AND THE TOYOTA REPLACEMENT PART IS METAL. THEY ARE MERELY NOT COVERING THIS BECAUSE IT IS NOT A RECALL AND THEY ARE NOT GETTING IN TROUBLE FOR IT. IT IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE, AS WHEN THIS BURSTS (WITH NO HEADS UP), YOU HAVE ONLY A FEW SECONDS TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND TURN OFF THE ENGINE. TOYOTA IS FULLY AWARE OF THE ISSUE BUT THE GOV'T HAS NOT REQUIRED THEM TO PUT IN A RECALL.
NHTSA ODI #10979156
58,000 miles · Mar 27, 2017
EngineFire
THE COOLANT PUMP PULLEY BROKE AND ENGINE GOT OVERHEATED AND STOPPED ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY AND HAD TO BE TOWED. THE VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 60K MILES ON IT. DEALER TELLS ME THAT BOTH THE ENGINE AND WATER PUMP HAVE TO BE REPLACED AND WOULD COST OVER $9,000.
NHTSA ODI #10968644
105,000 miles · Nov 6, 2016
Engine
2009 HIGHLANDER, PURCHASED NEW, HAD 105000 MILES ON 3.5L V6 ENGINE. OIL CHANGED EVERY 7000 MILES, FULLY SYNTHETIC. NO WARNING LIGHTS OR ENGINE NOISES PRIOR TO INCIDENT. CAR STARTED AFTER WORK, DROVE .6 MILE. STARTED RUNNING VERY ROUGH, PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER THINKING I HAD A FLAT TIRE. CAR DIED BEFORE FINISHING MANEUVER, …
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2009 HIGHLANDER, PURCHASED NEW, HAD 105000 MILES ON 3.5L V6 ENGINE. OIL CHANGED EVERY 7000 MILES, FULLY SYNTHETIC. NO WARNING LIGHTS OR ENGINE NOISES PRIOR TO INCIDENT. CAR STARTED AFTER WORK, DROVE .6 MILE. STARTED RUNNING VERY ROUGH, PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER THINKING I HAD A FLAT TIRE. CAR DIED BEFORE FINISHING MANEUVER, COASTED TO SHOULDER. ENGINE WOULD NOT START. TOWED TO REPAIR SHOP, THEY DIAGNOSED "ENGINE FULLY SEIZED UP". CONTACTED TOYOTA, THEY OFFERED NO SATISFACTION AS " CAR NOT BEING REPAIRED BY DEALER, NOT UNDER WARRANTY". I FIND THIS ANSWER TO BE WRONG, DUE TO LOW MILEAGE, HISTORY OF MAINTENANCE, NO REASON FOR CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF ENGINE. MECHANIC STATED THEORY OF "OIL PORTS CLOGGING UP", SINCE HEARD THEORY OF "OIL PUMP FAILURE".
NHTSA ODI #10924493
150,267 miles · Jul 25, 2016
Engine
MARCH 10, 2016 VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR OIL CHANGE. PARKED VEHICLE AFTER RETURN HOME (10 MILES DRIVE BETWEEN DEALERSHIP AND HOME) SAME DAY AND AFTER A FEW HOURS, NOTICED ALL OIL HAD LEAKED FROM VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO DEALER THAT DAY. UPON INVESTIGATION DEALER SAID THE PROBLEM WAS THE OIL COOLER PIPE. DEALER…
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MARCH 10, 2016 VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR OIL CHANGE. PARKED VEHICLE AFTER RETURN HOME (10 MILES DRIVE BETWEEN DEALERSHIP AND HOME) SAME DAY AND AFTER A FEW HOURS, NOTICED ALL OIL HAD LEAKED FROM VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO DEALER THAT DAY. UPON INVESTIGATION DEALER SAID THE PROBLEM WAS THE OIL COOLER PIPE. DEALER SAID TOYOTA ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN T-SB-0201-11 OVER 5 YEARS PRIOR THAT ISSUED A REPAIR PROCEDURE TO REPLACE THIS OIL COOLER PIPE. DEALER REPLACED OIL COOLER PIPE UNDER WARRANTY PER TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN AND ASSURED ME THAT NO DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE WAS "APPARENT" AFTER THE REPAIR. JULY 18, 2016 RETURNED TO SAME DEALER FOR A PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE MAKING A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND UPON FAST ACCELERATION. DEALER DIAGNOSED PROBLEM AS A ROD KNOCK AND CONFIRMED IT WAS DUE TO THE OIL COOLER PIPE LEAK FROM MARCH. THE REPAIR INVOLVES REPLACING THE ENGINE AN EXTENSIVE AND VERY EXPENSIVE REPAIR. TOYOTA NEEDS TO MAKE THIS TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN PROBLEM A RECALL TO AVOID UNNECESSARY ENGINE DAMAGE AND POTENTIAL SAFETY HAZARD TO THE 533500 ESTIMATED VEHICLES INCLUDED IN THE BULLETIN.
NHTSA ODI #10888472
45,000 miles · Mar 8, 2016
Engine
THE WATER PUMP WENT ON MY TOYOTA HIGHLAND. I LOOKED IT UP ONLINE AND FOUND OUT THE WATER PUMPS ARE FAULTY AND WILL MAKE A SOUND LIKE THERE IS GRAVEL IN THE MOTOR. I HAD TOYOTA FIX THE PROBLEM UNDER WARRANTY, BUT I LOOKED ONLINE AND FOUND THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. SHOULD BE LOOKED INTO DUE TO BEING BAD PUMPS.
NHTSA ODI #10840437
111,503 miles · Dec 22, 2015
Engine
NOTICED LARGE OIL PUDDLE IN DRIVEWAY. HAD CAR TOWED AS OIL LOSS COULD HAVE CAUSED FATAL DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. THE OIL LINE WAS DIAGNOSED AS DRY ROTTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPLACEMENT OIL LINE WAS VASTLY DIFFERENT THAN THAT OF THE ORIGINAL LINE INDICATING A PROBLEM WITH THE PREVIOUS DESIGN. THE LEAK BEGAN WHILE DRI…
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NOTICED LARGE OIL PUDDLE IN DRIVEWAY. HAD CAR TOWED AS OIL LOSS COULD HAVE CAUSED FATAL DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. THE OIL LINE WAS DIAGNOSED AS DRY ROTTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPLACEMENT OIL LINE WAS VASTLY DIFFERENT THAN THAT OF THE ORIGINAL LINE INDICATING A PROBLEM WITH THE PREVIOUS DESIGN. THE LEAK BEGAN WHILE DRIVING AND WE WERE ABLE TO TRACE THE OIL FOR MILES LEADING HOME. THE OIL INDICATOR LIGHT DID NOT COME ON TO WARN OF LOW OIL. TOYOTA DID RECALL OTHER VEHICLES FOR THE SAME PROBLEM HOWEVER NOT THIS PARTICULAR MAKE AND MODEL. AFTER TALKING TO TOYOTA'S RECALL DEPARTMENT I WAS TOLD IF I HAD HAD THE REPAIRS TAKEN CARE OF AT A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP I MAY HAVE BEEN ABLE TO BE REIMBURSED SLIGHTLY (A PERCENTAGE OF THE BILL) HOWEVER SINCE I USED THE SHOP OF MY CHOICE THERE IS NO OPTION FOR ANY REIMBURSEMENT.
NHTSA ODI #10811715
75,000 miles · Sep 28, 2015
EngineUnknown Or OtherFire
AUGUST 6, 2015 I WAS DRIVING NORTHBOUND ON HWY 45. AFTER ABOUT 20 MINUTES ON THE ROAD MY 2009 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER BEGAN TO SMOKE, THE OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND I PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. WITHIN A FEW MINUTES, BLACK SMOKE WAS POURING OUT FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. WITHIN ANOTHER MINUTE OR TWO THE SUV WAS ON…
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AUGUST 6, 2015 I WAS DRIVING NORTHBOUND ON HWY 45. AFTER ABOUT 20 MINUTES ON THE ROAD MY 2009 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER BEGAN TO SMOKE, THE OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND I PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. WITHIN A FEW MINUTES, BLACK SMOKE WAS POURING OUT FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. WITHIN ANOTHER MINUTE OR TWO THE SUV WAS ON FIRE AND SOON THE FRONT HALF WAS COMPLETELY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. I THOUGHT IT WOULD EXPLODE. TWO MILWAUKEE FIRE DEPARTMENT TEAMS ARRIVED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THANK GOD NO ONE WAS HURT AND MY CHILDREN WERE NOT IN THE CAR. ACCIDENT REPORT BMZ14XN WAS FILED WITH MILWAUKEE COUNTY. PRIOR TO THE FIRE THAT TOTALED THE HIGHLANDER, AN EMERGENCY REPAIR WAS MADE TO THE HIGHLANDER ON NOVEMBER 3, 2014. THAT NIGHT THE ENGINE BEGAN TO MAKE A STRANGE NOISE AND THE OIL WARNING LIGHT WENT ON. I PULLED INTO THE NEAREST AUTO REPAIR SHOP; THE TECH SAID IF I DROVE ANY FURTHER THE ENGINE WOULD HAVE BEEN SEVERELY DAMAGED BECAUSE THERE WAS NO OIL LEFT. THE ENGINE COOLANT PIPE SPRUNG A LEAK AND ALL OF THE OIL POURED OUT OF MY CAR. THAT WAS THE FIRST TIME MY HIGHLANDER LOST ALL OF ITS OIL BECAUSE OF A FAULTY OIL COOLANT PIPE- THE SECOND TIME IT RESULTED IN AN ENGINE FIRE. IN DECEMBER 2014 I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM TOYOTA STATING THEY REIMBURSE FOR REPAIRS RELATED TO LEAKING OIL OR ENGINE DAMAGE. TOYOTA DEALERS RECEIVED TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) #TSB-020-11 INDICATING THE REPLACEMENT PART SHOULD BE METAL; NOT RUBBER WHICH IS WHAT I HAD. I MENTIONED THE EMERGENCY REPAIR TWICE WHEN I WENT IN FOR SERVICE TO JACK SAFRO TOYOTA. NEITHER TIME DID A SERVICE TECH SUGGEST THAT THE OIL COOLANT PIPE BE CHECKED TO MAKE SURE IT WAS CORRECTLY REPAIRED. I BELIEVE THIS WAS A MAJOR OVERSIGHT ON THE PART OF THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND THAT TOYOTA SHOULD RECALL THE OIL COOLANT PIPE. THE FAULTY PART IS ON 2007-2010 HIGHLANDERS AND OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES.
NHTSA ODI #10778142
71,000 miles · Jul 25, 2015
Engine
WE WERE TRAVELING DOWN A STATE ROUTE HIGHWAY AT 50 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY WE LOST POWER TO THE CAR, WE WERE BETWEEN TWO MAC TRUCKS, AND THE OIL LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. WE HAD TO QUICKLY GET OFF THE ROADWAY (NO BREAKDOWN LANES) AND FIND A SAFE SPOT TO STOP ON SOME GRASS. THE RUBBER OIL LINE HAD CRACKED/RUPTURED AND DRAINED THE OIL F…
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WE WERE TRAVELING DOWN A STATE ROUTE HIGHWAY AT 50 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY WE LOST POWER TO THE CAR, WE WERE BETWEEN TWO MAC TRUCKS, AND THE OIL LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. WE HAD TO QUICKLY GET OFF THE ROADWAY (NO BREAKDOWN LANES) AND FIND A SAFE SPOT TO STOP ON SOME GRASS. THE RUBBER OIL LINE HAD CRACKED/RUPTURED AND DRAINED THE OIL FROM THE CAR RAPIDLY CAUSING THE ENGINE TO LOSE POWER AND MAKE NOISE. I FOUND OUT ONLINE THAT THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE BUT NO RECALL HAS BEEN DONE AS TOYOTA CLAIMS THIS IS NOT SAFETY ISSUE. HOWEVER, IN MY CASE IT WAS VERY MUCH A SAFETY ISSUE AS THIS HAPPENED ON A HIGHWAY IN RAPID SUCCESSION WITH NO SAFE PLACE TO LEAVE THE ROADWAY.
NHTSA ODI #10743458
78,000 miles · Jan 31, 2015
Engine
MASSIVE OIL LEAK FROM OIL COOLER LINE OF 2009 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER WITH TOW PACKAGE AT ~78,000 MILES. RUBBER HOSES BURST AND OIL LEAKED OUT FROM ENGINE.
NHTSA ODI #10680148
15,000 miles · Aug 3, 2013
Electronic Stability Control (esc)EngineService Brakes
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE EXPRESSWAY WITH THE FAMILY (50MPH), CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND TRACTION CONTROL SUDDENLY TURN ON AND FLICKER ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. ENGINE POWER HESITATES. AT THE STOPLIGHT, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CONTINUES TO TURN ON, AND OFF RANDOMLY, AS WELL AS TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT. ENGINE APPEARS TO BE STALLING AT TIMES, AN…
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WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE EXPRESSWAY WITH THE FAMILY (50MPH), CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND TRACTION CONTROL SUDDENLY TURN ON AND FLICKER ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. ENGINE POWER HESITATES. AT THE STOPLIGHT, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CONTINUES TO TURN ON, AND OFF RANDOMLY, AS WELL AS TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT. ENGINE APPEARS TO BE STALLING AT TIMES, AND RPM BOUNCES BETWEEN 500-900. ACCELERATION WHEN PRESSING AGAINST GAS PEDAL RESULTS IN UNEVEN ACCELERATION. PULLED VEHICLE OFF TO THE SIDE, TURNED ENGINE OFF, AND EXAMINED VEHICLE. EXAMINED VEHICLE AND DO NOT SEE ANYTHING SUSPICIOUS. TURNED VEHICLE BACK ON, AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WITH TRACTION CONTROL OFF. MOMENTS LATER, LIGHTS TURN BACK ON. LIMPED VEHICLE BACK TO RESIDENCE VIA LOCAL ROADS. CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE INTERMITTENT ON/OFF CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND TRACTION CONTROL. AFTER ARRIVING AT RESIDENCE, PARKED VEHICLE AND PERFORMED ADDITIONAL EXAMINATION. NOTICED BURNING SMELL AT REAR BRAKE SHOES, POSSIBLY FROM TRACTION CONTROL HOLDING ON TO BRAKES. WILL BRING CAR TO DEALERSHIP ON 08/05/13 FIRST THING IN THE MORNING. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10533441
Official recalls
9Jun 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.
Oct 22, 2015
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the switch, applying a lubricant if no abnormality is found. If abnormality is found, the PWMS circuit board will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 20, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is C0M.
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.
Apr 9, 2014
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module housed in a spiral cable assembly, which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer, the FFC could become damaged when the steering wheel is turned.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically necessitates deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver.
Remedy: Toyota will notify the Toyota vehicle owners, and General Motors will notify the Pontiac Vibe owners. Toyota sent owners an interim notification letter in May 2014 to advise owners of the recall. Toyota will mail owners a second letter when remedy parts are available. General Motors sent Pontiac Vibe owners an Interim letter on June 20, 2014 notifying them that parts are currently unavailable. General Motors sent notices to the Pontiac Vibe owners on September 15, 2014, that a remedy is available. The recall began on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-762-2737.
Jan 16, 2013
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seats
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
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.
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.
Jan 27, 2010
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, VENZA AND MATRIX PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT. THIS RECALL IS AN EXPANSION OF A CAMPAIGN OF 3.8 MILLION OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES ANNOUNCED IN 2009 FOR THE SAME ISSUE (SEE 09V-388).
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL MODIFY OR REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR PEDALS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES. FLOOR SURFACE MODIFICATIONS ARE ALSO BEING CONSIDERED AND WILL BE INCLUDED FOR ANY MODEL FOR WHICH IT IS DEEMED APPROPRIATE. INITIALLY, DEALERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO RESHAPE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FOR THE REPAIR. AS REPLACEMENT PARTS WITH THE SAME SHAPE AS THE MODIFIED PEDAL BECOME AVAILABLE, THEY WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE DEALERS FOR THE REPAIR. CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE HAD THE PEDAL RESHAPE REMEDY COMPLETED WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RECEIVE A NEW PEDAL IF THEY DESIRE, AFTER REPLACEMENT PEDALS BECOME AVAILABLE. IN ADDITION, TOYOTA WILL REPLACE ANY TOYOTA ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT IN A SUBJECT VEHICLE WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED MAT, FREE OF CHARGE. FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE THE PREVIOUS DESIGN ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT BUT DO NOT NEED OR WANT THE NEWLY DESIGNED ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT, TOYOTA WILL RECOVER THE PREVIOUS DESIGN ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT AND REIMBURSE ITS PRICE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN MARCH 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
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
2EA18006 · Steering Column Separation
Opened Nov 16, 2018 · Closed Apr 2, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:column
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence, and the updated manufacturer documentation, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists. The agency reserves right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. A detailed summary of the investigation is attached to this closing resume. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Steering:column
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence, and the updated manufacturer documentation, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists. The agency reserves right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. A detailed summary of the investigation is attached to this closing resume. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Steering
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence, and the updated manufacturer documentation, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists. The agency reserves right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. A detailed summary of the investigation is attached to this closing resume. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
PE18005 · Upper Steering Column Separation
Opened May 4, 2018 · Closed Nov 20, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:column
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Steering:column
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.
Steering
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.
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