By now you’ve heard about Toyota’s recall of over 2 million cars in the U.S. to fix problems with sticking accelerator pedals.
Toyota and Pontiac Models Affected by Recall / Suspension:
2009-2010 RAV4 |
2009-2010 Corolla |
2009-2010 Matrix |
2005-2010 Avalon |
2007-2010 Camry |
2010 Highlander |
2008-2010 Sequoia |
2007-2010 Tundra |
2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe |
To date we haven’t seen a lot of coverage about the actual pedal itself, so we decided to head down to our local junkyard in
Sterling Heights, Michigan to see if we could find a pedal from a recalled car. As it turns out we found a perfect example of a vehicle on the recall list — a 2009 Toyota Camry — and pulled the pedal assembly off the car.
Our Editor-in-Chief, Reilly Brennan, and Autoblog.com Associate Editor, Sam Abuelsamid, discuss the pedal in this video. In it we specifically highlight the internal brass bushing that some have speculated could be at the root of the problem. To date Toyota and CTS Corporation have not provided a specific explanation of how the unit is malfunctioning but a further explanation is expected next week.
Click here if you’re looking for close-up images of the recalled pedal itself.
If you do experience problems with your vehicle involving a sticky accelerator, Toyota has provided the following recommendations:
Each circumstance may vary, and drivers must use their best judgment, but Toyota recommends taking one of the following actions:
If you need to stop immediately, the vehicle can be controlled by stepping on the brake pedal with both feet using firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brake pedal as it will deplete the vacuum utilized for the power brake assist.
Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.
If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost.
If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button.
If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel.
Read More:
– Gallery: Toyota Pedal Assembly Close-Up
– Toyota’s Woes: The Bloom Is Off The Rose