On January 21, Toyota announced its intention to recall approximately 2.3
million select Toyota Division vehicles equipped with a specific pedal
assembly and suspended sales of the eight models involved in the recall on January 26.

Toyota vehicles affected by the recall include:

Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
2009-2010 Matrix
2005-2010 Avalon
Certain 2007-2010 Camry
Certain 2010 Highlander
2007-2010 Tundra

2008-2010 Sequoia

No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these
actions.  Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza,
Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and
certain Camry models, including Camry hybrids, all of which remain for sale. 


Further, Camry, RAV4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with
Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) that begin with "J" are not
affected by the accelerator pedal recall.
 
In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal
that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the
vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes.
The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could
deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure.  The vehicle should be
driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off
and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.
 
Detailed information and answers to questions about issues
related to this recall are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall
and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
 
How Toyota Will Fix Recalled Vehicles

Toyota has pinpointed the issue that could, on rare occasions, cause
accelerator pedals in recalled vehicles to stick in a partially open
position.  The issue involves a friction device in the pedal designed to
provide the proper “feel” by adding resistance and making the pedal steady
and stable.  The device includes a shoe that rubs
against an adjoining surface during normal pedal operation.  Due to the
materials pre-owned, wear and environmental conditions, these surfaces may, over time, begin to stick and
release instead of operating smoothly.  In some cases, friction could
increase to a point that the pedal is slow to return to the idle position
or, in rare cases, the pedal sticks, leaving the throttle partially open.

Toyota’s solution for current owners is both effectiveand simple.  A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the assembly that will reduce the surface tension between the friction shoe and the
adjoining surface.  With this reinforcement in place, the excess friction
that can cause the pedal to stick is eliminated.  The company has confirmed
the effectiveness of the newly reinforced pedals through rigorous testing
on pedal assemblies that had previously shown a tendency to
stick.

Separately from the recall for sticking accelerator pedals,
Toyota is in the process of recalling vehicles to address rare instances
in which floor mats have trapped the accelerator pedal in certain Toyota
and Lexus models (announced November 25, 2009), and is already notifying
customers about how it will fix this issue.  In the case of vehicles
covered by both recalls, it is Toyota’s intention to remedy both at the same
time.

At Bristol Toyota Scion, as soon as the parts arrive we will be open extended hours for your convenience.
We will be  pleased to pick up and deliver your vehicle if it makes it more comfortable for you!

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