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Toyota announced on January 21, 2010 that they are recalling 2.3 million vehicles. Irv Miller, Toyota Motor Sales Group Vice-President said, “In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats. Our investigation indicates that 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. Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.”

According to Toyota, once the gas pedal mechanism becomes worn, it may become more difficult to push down and return slower or even remain depressed. Toyota says that they are working to remedy the problem as quickly as possible. The recall includes cars, SUV’s, and pickup trucks. The accelerator pedal recall does not include Lexus or Scion vehicles. It is limited to the following vehicles:

• 2009-2010 RAV4,

• 2009-2010 Corolla,

• 2009-2010 Matrix,

• 2005-2010 Avalon,

• 2007-2010 Camry,

• 2010 Highlander,

• 2007-2010 Tundra,

• 2008-2010 Sequoia

This recall comes on the heels of another recall that was announced in November of 2009 that affected both Toyota and Lexus vehicles. In that recall, 4.2 million Lexus and Toyota vehicles were recalled because the gas pedal was getting trapped underneath the floor mat. This problem was attributed to a loose or improperly attached floor mat. Toyota has been working to change the configuration of the gas pedal as well as replace the floor mat on those vehicles. In addition to those measures, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has said that Toyota will also be installing a brake override system on the vehicles involved in that recall. The brake override system would enable the vehicle to stop despite the accelerator being simultaneously depressed.

Should a driver experience a sticking pedal Toyota offers this advice:

  • Control the vehicle by firmly and steadily applying the brake.
  • Do not pump the brake as that could deplete the vacuum assist which would mean more pressure would need to be applied to the brake in order to safely stop.
  • Drive the vehicle to a safe location and turn it off.
  • Contact the nearest Toyota dealer for immediate assistance.

Toyota recommends that any customer that has any questions or concerns should contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.