Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
9 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Safety Issue:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: 20TA02, 20LA01
Recall Date: Nov 4, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Safety Issue:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: 20TB02/20TA02/20LB01
Recall Date: Jan 13, 2020
Fujian Wanda Automobile Glass Industry C
Safety Issue:
Fujian Wanda Automobile Glass Industry (Wanda) is recalling certain aftermarket Replacement Windshields sold for use in 2014-2018 Toyota Highlander vehicles. The windshields have an attached wire harness that water may leak into, possibly causing damage to the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Recall Date: Nov 27, 2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Safety Issue:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018 Toyota Camry and Highlander vehicles, 2017 Toyota Sienna and Tacoma vehicles and 2017 Lexus RX350 vehicles. During the manufacturing process, the oil galley in the rotor for the brake booster vacuum pump assembly may have been improperly machined possibly resulting in a sudden loss of brake assist.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: J0K/JLD
Recall Date: Apr 3, 2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Safety Issue:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Toyota 4Runner and Tundra, 2018 Toyota Highlander, RAV4 and Lexus GX460 and 2017 Toyota Sienna and Tacoma vehicles. These vehicles may have incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: Toyota H0Z Lexus HLF
Recall Date: Dec 20, 2017
Consumer Complaints
283 ComplaintsToyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Unable to start vehicle twice. In both instances, foot was placed on the brake before pressing Start button and brake was extremely stiff. When Start button is pushed, electronics engage (control panel lights, A/C, etc.) but engine will not engage. In the first incident, car had been stopped to refuel and would not restart. Car had been started without incident and been running for approximately 20 minutes prior to stopping for refueling. Tried to restart the engine for 20-30 minutes unsuccessfully and had to have vehicle towed to authorized Toyota dealer. Dealer was unable to look at it for two days and was able to start engine on the first try two days later. Dealer could not replicate problem. In the second incident, car had been in a parking lot for two hours on a hot day. Again, brake was extremely stiff, electronics engaged but engine would not start. A message appeared Brake Power Low. We shut off A/C and were able to restart the vehicle. In both instances, the driver-side door was open to try and let hot air out - we don't know if this has any bearing on the issue.
Corrective Action:
Unable to start vehicle twice. In both instances, foot was placed on the brake before pressing Start button and brake was extremely stiff. When Start button is pushed, electronics engage (control panel lights, A/C, etc.) but engine will not engage. In the first incident, car had been stopped to refuel and would not restart. Car had been started without incident and been running for approximately 20 minutes prior to stopping for refueling. Tried to restart the engine for 20-30 minutes unsuccessfully and had to have vehicle towed to authorized Toyota dealer. Dealer was unable to look at it for two days and was able to start engine on the first try two days later. Dealer could not replicate problem. In the second incident, car had been in a parking lot for two hours on a hot day. Again, brake was extremely stiff, electronics engaged but engine would not start. A message appeared Brake Power Low. We shut off A/C and were able to restart the vehicle. In both instances, the driver-side door was open to try and let hot air out - we don't know if this has any bearing on the issue.
Additional Notes:
Unable to start vehicle twice. In both instances, foot was placed on the brake before pressing Start button and brake was extremely stiff. When Start button is pushed, electronics engage (control panel lights, A/C, etc.) but engine will not engage. In the first incident, car had been stopped to refuel and would not restart. Car had been started without incident and been running for approximately 20 minutes prior to stopping for refueling. Tried to restart the engine for 20-30 minutes unsuccessfully and had to have vehicle towed to authorized Toyota dealer. Dealer was unable to look at it for two days and was able to start engine on the first try two days later. Dealer could not replicate problem. In the second incident, car had been in a parking lot for two hours on a hot day. Again, brake was extremely stiff, electronics engaged but engine would not start. A message appeared Brake Power Low. We shut off A/C and were able to restart the vehicle. In both instances, the driver-side door was open to try and let hot air out - we don't know if this has any bearing on the issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11434415
Recall Date: Sep 26, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Unable to start vehicle twice. In both instances, foot was placed on the brake before pressing Start button and brake was extremely stiff. When Start button is pushed, electronics engage (control panel lights, A/C, etc.) but engine will not engage. In the first incident, car had been stopped to refuel and would not restart. Car had been started without incident and been running for approximately 20 minutes prior to stopping for refueling. Tried to restart the engine for 20-30 minutes unsuccessfully and had to have vehicle towed to authorized Toyota dealer. Dealer was unable to look at it for two days and was able to start engine on the first try two days later. Dealer could not replicate problem. In the second incident, car had been in a parking lot for two hours on a hot day. Again, brake was extremely stiff, electronics engaged but engine would not start. A message appeared Brake Power Low. We shut off A/C and were able to restart the vehicle. In both instances, the driver-side door was open to try and let hot air out - we don't know if this has any bearing on the issue.
Corrective Action:
Unable to start vehicle twice. In both instances, foot was placed on the brake before pressing Start button and brake was extremely stiff. When Start button is pushed, electronics engage (control panel lights, A/C, etc.) but engine will not engage. In the first incident, car had been stopped to refuel and would not restart. Car had been started without incident and been running for approximately 20 minutes prior to stopping for refueling. Tried to restart the engine for 20-30 minutes unsuccessfully and had to have vehicle towed to authorized Toyota dealer. Dealer was unable to look at it for two days and was able to start engine on the first try two days later. Dealer could not replicate problem. In the second incident, car had been in a parking lot for two hours on a hot day. Again, brake was extremely stiff, electronics engaged but engine would not start. A message appeared Brake Power Low. We shut off A/C and were able to restart the vehicle. In both instances, the driver-side door was open to try and let hot air out - we don't know if this has any bearing on the issue.
Additional Notes:
Unable to start vehicle twice. In both instances, foot was placed on the brake before pressing Start button and brake was extremely stiff. When Start button is pushed, electronics engage (control panel lights, A/C, etc.) but engine will not engage. In the first incident, car had been stopped to refuel and would not restart. Car had been started without incident and been running for approximately 20 minutes prior to stopping for refueling. Tried to restart the engine for 20-30 minutes unsuccessfully and had to have vehicle towed to authorized Toyota dealer. Dealer was unable to look at it for two days and was able to start engine on the first try two days later. Dealer could not replicate problem. In the second incident, car had been in a parking lot for two hours on a hot day. Again, brake was extremely stiff, electronics engaged but engine would not start. A message appeared Brake Power Low. We shut off A/C and were able to restart the vehicle. In both instances, the driver-side door was open to try and let hot air out - we don't know if this has any bearing on the issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11434415
Recall Date: Sep 26, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owned a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) had been completed on the vehicle. The contact stated while her husband was driving 55-65 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband veered to the side of the road. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact's husband that they could not determine the cause of the failure; however, the computer onboard was reset. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts however, the failure recurred several times while the contact's husband was taking the vehicle to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer - Lithia Toyota of Billings (1532 Grand Ave, Billings, MT 59102) who diagnosed that no issues were found and advised the contact's husband to trade-in the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owned a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) had been completed on the vehicle. The contact stated while her husband was driving 55-65 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband veered to the side of the road. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact's husband that they could not determine the cause of the failure; however, the computer onboard was reset. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts however, the failure recurred several times while the contact's husband was taking the vehicle to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer - Lithia Toyota of Billings (1532 Grand Ave, Billings, MT 59102) who diagnosed that no issues were found and advised the contact's husband to trade-in the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owned a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) had been completed on the vehicle. The contact stated while her husband was driving 55-65 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband veered to the side of the road. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact's husband that they could not determine the cause of the failure; however, the computer onboard was reset. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts however, the failure recurred several times while the contact's husband was taking the vehicle to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer - Lithia Toyota of Billings (1532 Grand Ave, Billings, MT 59102) who diagnosed that no issues were found and advised the contact's husband to trade-in the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11433660
Recall Date: Sep 20, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owned a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) had been completed on the vehicle. The contact stated while her husband was driving 55-65 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband veered to the side of the road. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact's husband that they could not determine the cause of the failure; however, the computer onboard was reset. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts however, the failure recurred several times while the contact's husband was taking the vehicle to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer - Lithia Toyota of Billings (1532 Grand Ave, Billings, MT 59102) who diagnosed that no issues were found and advised the contact's husband to trade-in the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owned a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) had been completed on the vehicle. The contact stated while her husband was driving 55-65 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband veered to the side of the road. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact's husband that they could not determine the cause of the failure; however, the computer onboard was reset. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts however, the failure recurred several times while the contact's husband was taking the vehicle to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer - Lithia Toyota of Billings (1532 Grand Ave, Billings, MT 59102) who diagnosed that no issues were found and advised the contact's husband to trade-in the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owned a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) had been completed on the vehicle. The contact stated while her husband was driving 55-65 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her husband veered to the side of the road. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact's husband that they could not determine the cause of the failure; however, the computer onboard was reset. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts however, the failure recurred several times while the contact's husband was taking the vehicle to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer - Lithia Toyota of Billings (1532 Grand Ave, Billings, MT 59102) who diagnosed that no issues were found and advised the contact's husband to trade-in the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and was traded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11433660
Recall Date: Sep 20, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Corrective Action:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Additional Notes:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Mfg Campaign: 11433443
Recall Date: Sep 18, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
Potential Consequences:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Corrective Action:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Additional Notes:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Mfg Campaign: 11433443
Recall Date: Sep 18, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Potential Consequences:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Corrective Action:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Additional Notes:
Where the incident happened? The incident happened at the following google coordinates (39.21707240377137, -77.6491829535095) on an unpaved, but well-maintained road. When this incident took place? 09/11/2021 – around 10.30am Who is travelling with you? I was travelling with my wife (Vijaya) and Pet Dog (Leo). Both my wife and I have the seat belts on. How are the driving conditions? A bright and sunny morning with clear visibility, minimal wind and no rain. The road is totally dry. In a way perfect driving condition. How the incident happened? A white truck came in the opposite direction and since the road is narrow I pulled my highlander to the right, where there is some loose gravel on the side of the road. When I pulled to the side I am almost at a standstill and after the truck had passed started moving the car towards the middle of the road. At this moment the Highlander suddenly started swiveling to the left, and the traction became very wobbly and when tried to apply brakes, brake did not work at all. In stead the car started going out of control on the left side and is about to crash into 2 large trees on the side of the car. At that time without having any control over the brakes, I tried to steer towards right and the car turned sharp towards right, crossed road and fell into a 15 feet ditch on the right side of the car. What is the Car behavior witnessed? Total loss of Breaks, self-acceleration, and unpredictable steering control. The whole incident might’ve happened in about 10-15 seconds. Neither the auto-braking nor the collision control has triggered. Not sure what triggered this behavior of the car. It appeared as if the car tried to auto-correct the traction and something malfunctioned.
Mfg Campaign: 11433443
Recall Date: Sep 18, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the steering wheel inadvertently locked. The warning message "ETS Failure - Steering Will Be Harder to Steer" appeared on the instrument panel. The contact stated he forcefully steered the steering wheel and veered to the side of the road. The contact turned off the vehicle and as he restarted the vehicle, the steering wheel was still significantly difficult to steer. The contact stated he was able to drive the vehicle to the nearest dealer, though the steering wheel was significantly difficult to steer. The dealer diagnosed the failure as a computer system malfunction. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they would follow up with the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 1,000. The VIN was not provided.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the steering wheel inadvertently locked. The warning message "ETS Failure - Steering Will Be Harder to Steer" appeared on the instrument panel. The contact stated he forcefully steered the steering wheel and veered to the side of the road. The contact turned off the vehicle and as he restarted the vehicle, the steering wheel was still significantly difficult to steer. The contact stated he was able to drive the vehicle to the nearest dealer, though the steering wheel was significantly difficult to steer. The dealer diagnosed the failure as a computer system malfunction. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they would follow up with the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 1,000. The VIN was not provided.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the steering wheel inadvertently locked. The warning message "ETS Failure - Steering Will Be Harder to Steer" appeared on the instrument panel. The contact stated he forcefully steered the steering wheel and veered to the side of the road. The contact turned off the vehicle and as he restarted the vehicle, the steering wheel was still significantly difficult to steer. The contact stated he was able to drive the vehicle to the nearest dealer, though the steering wheel was significantly difficult to steer. The dealer diagnosed the failure as a computer system malfunction. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they would follow up with the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 1,000. The VIN was not provided.
Mfg Campaign: 11433316
Recall Date: Sep 17, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
On July 27, I was driving on a major multi-lane road going approximately 35 miles going to the World Toyota for an oil change. All of a sudden, the vehicle decelerated to almost a stop. I gingerly navigated the vehicle to the side of the road. There was no warning that there was something wrong with the vehicle. After navigating to the side of the road a warning light appeared that said traction control is off. I called World Toyota, told them what happened and they suggested that I get the vehicle towed if I felt I couldn’t drive it. I was about 1/4 mile away from the dealer. The vehicle was a safety hazard, therefore, I had the vehicle towed to the dealer. On July 28, the World Toyota service advisor informed me that 2 of the 6 fuel injectors had failed—#s1 and 4. He advised me the best route would be to replace all 6 at a cost of $3500. He agreed with me that it is odd for fuel injectors to fail on a vehicle with only 48K. We have driven this car very little since purchasing shortly before the COVID lock down in early 2020. I spoke with customer relations at Toyota and they have offered to pay to replace the 2 failed injectors, but have refused to pay the installation costs. I am concerned that the failure the injectors is a huge safely issue for Toyota Highlander owners. I saw where the injector issue has been discussed for 2019 model Highlanders. Here is the information in the inspection report from dealer [“ CUSTOMER STATES THE TRACTION CONTROL OFF LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED TO DECELEARATE AND THEN STARTED JERKING. VEHICLE TOWED IN. 1HR DIAGNOSTIC APPROVED. remove intake manifold OBSERVATIONS: MULTIPLE CODES FOR OPEN CIRCUIT TO DIRECT INJECTION.NEED TO REMOVE INTAKE MANIFOLD TO INSPECT FUEL INJECTORS”] The information about which injectors failed was given to me by phone by my service advisor, Matthew Bailey. I uploaded the picture sent of mechanic working on vehicle.
Corrective Action:
On July 27, I was driving on a major multi-lane road going approximately 35 miles going to the World Toyota for an oil change. All of a sudden, the vehicle decelerated to almost a stop. I gingerly navigated the vehicle to the side of the road. There was no warning that there was something wrong with the vehicle. After navigating to the side of the road a warning light appeared that said traction control is off. I called World Toyota, told them what happened and they suggested that I get the vehicle towed if I felt I couldn’t drive it. I was about 1/4 mile away from the dealer. The vehicle was a safety hazard, therefore, I had the vehicle towed to the dealer. On July 28, the World Toyota service advisor informed me that 2 of the 6 fuel injectors had failed—#s1 and 4. He advised me the best route would be to replace all 6 at a cost of $3500. He agreed with me that it is odd for fuel injectors to fail on a vehicle with only 48K. We have driven this car very little since purchasing shortly before the COVID lock down in early 2020. I spoke with customer relations at Toyota and they have offered to pay to replace the 2 failed injectors, but have refused to pay the installation costs. I am concerned that the failure the injectors is a huge safely issue for Toyota Highlander owners. I saw where the injector issue has been discussed for 2019 model Highlanders. Here is the information in the inspection report from dealer [“ CUSTOMER STATES THE TRACTION CONTROL OFF LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED TO DECELEARATE AND THEN STARTED JERKING. VEHICLE TOWED IN. 1HR DIAGNOSTIC APPROVED. remove intake manifold OBSERVATIONS: MULTIPLE CODES FOR OPEN CIRCUIT TO DIRECT INJECTION.NEED TO REMOVE INTAKE MANIFOLD TO INSPECT FUEL INJECTORS”] The information about which injectors failed was given to me by phone by my service advisor, Matthew Bailey. I uploaded the picture sent of mechanic working on vehicle.
Additional Notes:
On July 27, I was driving on a major multi-lane road going approximately 35 miles going to the World Toyota for an oil change. All of a sudden, the vehicle decelerated to almost a stop. I gingerly navigated the vehicle to the side of the road. There was no warning that there was something wrong with the vehicle. After navigating to the side of the road a warning light appeared that said traction control is off. I called World Toyota, told them what happened and they suggested that I get the vehicle towed if I felt I couldn’t drive it. I was about 1/4 mile away from the dealer. The vehicle was a safety hazard, therefore, I had the vehicle towed to the dealer. On July 28, the World Toyota service advisor informed me that 2 of the 6 fuel injectors had failed—#s1 and 4. He advised me the best route would be to replace all 6 at a cost of $3500. He agreed with me that it is odd for fuel injectors to fail on a vehicle with only 48K. We have driven this car very little since purchasing shortly before the COVID lock down in early 2020. I spoke with customer relations at Toyota and they have offered to pay to replace the 2 failed injectors, but have refused to pay the installation costs. I am concerned that the failure the injectors is a huge safely issue for Toyota Highlander owners. I saw where the injector issue has been discussed for 2019 model Highlanders. Here is the information in the inspection report from dealer [“ CUSTOMER STATES THE TRACTION CONTROL OFF LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED TO DECELEARATE AND THEN STARTED JERKING. VEHICLE TOWED IN. 1HR DIAGNOSTIC APPROVED. remove intake manifold OBSERVATIONS: MULTIPLE CODES FOR OPEN CIRCUIT TO DIRECT INJECTION.NEED TO REMOVE INTAKE MANIFOLD TO INSPECT FUEL INJECTORS”] The information about which injectors failed was given to me by phone by my service advisor, Matthew Bailey. I uploaded the picture sent of mechanic working on vehicle.
Mfg Campaign: 11427223
Recall Date: Jul 30, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
Driving on the FWY at 67 MPH.I received “Braking Power Low, stop at a safe place” I pulled over and went to a Toyota dealership and they told me it is not covered and considered as a recall for my vehicle. EVEN though the same problems have been identified for the same make and vehicle under recall #18V211000 Please help. I don’t think it’s right that Toyota can say it is not covered simply because they haven’t identified it with my specific vin and or the manufacturer they used.
Corrective Action:
Driving on the FWY at 67 MPH.I received “Braking Power Low, stop at a safe place” I pulled over and went to a Toyota dealership and they told me it is not covered and considered as a recall for my vehicle. EVEN though the same problems have been identified for the same make and vehicle under recall #18V211000 Please help. I don’t think it’s right that Toyota can say it is not covered simply because they haven’t identified it with my specific vin and or the manufacturer they used.
Additional Notes:
Driving on the FWY at 67 MPH.I received “Braking Power Low, stop at a safe place” I pulled over and went to a Toyota dealership and they told me it is not covered and considered as a recall for my vehicle. EVEN though the same problems have been identified for the same make and vehicle under recall #18V211000 Please help. I don’t think it’s right that Toyota can say it is not covered simply because they haven’t identified it with my specific vin and or the manufacturer they used.
Mfg Campaign: 11426284
Recall Date: Jul 24, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
Toyota issued a service bulletin for my vehicle in 2020 to address surging front brakes. In April, 2020 my vehicle experienced surging that caused severe shimmy of the front of the entire vehicle in downhill braking at highway speed. Kendall Toyota, Bend, OR replaced the entire front brake system under the bulletin. The mileage was approx. 26,500. That problem recurred about June 13, 2021 in the same circumstances. The mileage was approximately 36,500. Kendall indicates that Toyota has not issued a new service bulletin covering this condition. Kendall found all brake system parts to be in good condition, but noted that "front rotors severely glazed. ... typically be (sic) due to heat caused by repeat high speed/downhill braking, or longer periods of brake applications while driving." Prior service records (every 5K miles) show no unusual brake wear/rotor glazing -- ever.
Corrective Action:
Toyota issued a service bulletin for my vehicle in 2020 to address surging front brakes. In April, 2020 my vehicle experienced surging that caused severe shimmy of the front of the entire vehicle in downhill braking at highway speed. Kendall Toyota, Bend, OR replaced the entire front brake system under the bulletin. The mileage was approx. 26,500. That problem recurred about June 13, 2021 in the same circumstances. The mileage was approximately 36,500. Kendall indicates that Toyota has not issued a new service bulletin covering this condition. Kendall found all brake system parts to be in good condition, but noted that "front rotors severely glazed. ... typically be (sic) due to heat caused by repeat high speed/downhill braking, or longer periods of brake applications while driving." Prior service records (every 5K miles) show no unusual brake wear/rotor glazing -- ever.
Additional Notes:
Toyota issued a service bulletin for my vehicle in 2020 to address surging front brakes. In April, 2020 my vehicle experienced surging that caused severe shimmy of the front of the entire vehicle in downhill braking at highway speed. Kendall Toyota, Bend, OR replaced the entire front brake system under the bulletin. The mileage was approx. 26,500. That problem recurred about June 13, 2021 in the same circumstances. The mileage was approximately 36,500. Kendall indicates that Toyota has not issued a new service bulletin covering this condition. Kendall found all brake system parts to be in good condition, but noted that "front rotors severely glazed. ... typically be (sic) due to heat caused by repeat high speed/downhill braking, or longer periods of brake applications while driving." Prior service records (every 5K miles) show no unusual brake wear/rotor glazing -- ever.
Mfg Campaign: 11422456
Recall Date: Jun 26, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Corrective Action:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Additional Notes:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Mfg Campaign: 11420820
Recall Date: Jun 14, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Corrective Action:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Additional Notes:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Mfg Campaign: 11420820
Recall Date: Jun 14, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Corrective Action:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Additional Notes:
Upon turning on the vehicle the brake peddle locked and the steering wheel. Message prompted "braking power low, stop in safe place". After that all electronic features failed and vehicle did not turn on at all. Vehicle wouldn't even lock. Mine and my families safety was at risk due to the fact that this could have happened while the vehicle was in motion and all steering and braking abilities are lost. The vehicle is scheduled to be seen. No warning signs/lampsor other symptoms where present prior to the incident.
Mfg Campaign: 11420820
Recall Date: Jun 14, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
Accordingly to Toyota vehicle Maintenance Schedule, the vacuum pump for the brake booster needs to be replaced as a regular maintenance or "wear" item every 120,000 miles. This is a very expensive maintenance item (>$600 in parts, ~$1000 including labor and shop materials), that needs to be performed by a Toyota certified technician. In addition to being very expensive, what will discourage many vehicle owners from performing this service, one may expect that many owners who perform their own vehicle maintenance or use independent mechanic shops will simply miss this service altogether. Being a safety critical item, the vacuum pump should be designed to last the entire lifespan of the vehicle (just like other brake system components: ABS pump, vacuum booster, master cylinder, etc.). The short lifespan of the vacuum pump and the requirement to replace it on a regular basis is indicative of a defective or deficient design. Making the replacement of the vacuum pump a scheduled maintenance item is a just way for Toyota to avoid liability due to premature failures of a substandard safety component, especially in light that other brake system components are designed to last for the entire life of the vehicle, and are not considered wear items in the maintenance schedule (except for brake pads, of course). Toyota should redesign the vacuum pump to increase its lifespan in-line with the rest of the brake system components, and perform the replacement under a safety recall or service campaign, at no cost to vehicle owners.
Corrective Action:
Accordingly to Toyota vehicle Maintenance Schedule, the vacuum pump for the brake booster needs to be replaced as a regular maintenance or "wear" item every 120,000 miles. This is a very expensive maintenance item (>$600 in parts, ~$1000 including labor and shop materials), that needs to be performed by a Toyota certified technician. In addition to being very expensive, what will discourage many vehicle owners from performing this service, one may expect that many owners who perform their own vehicle maintenance or use independent mechanic shops will simply miss this service altogether. Being a safety critical item, the vacuum pump should be designed to last the entire lifespan of the vehicle (just like other brake system components: ABS pump, vacuum booster, master cylinder, etc.). The short lifespan of the vacuum pump and the requirement to replace it on a regular basis is indicative of a defective or deficient design. Making the replacement of the vacuum pump a scheduled maintenance item is a just way for Toyota to avoid liability due to premature failures of a substandard safety component, especially in light that other brake system components are designed to last for the entire life of the vehicle, and are not considered wear items in the maintenance schedule (except for brake pads, of course). Toyota should redesign the vacuum pump to increase its lifespan in-line with the rest of the brake system components, and perform the replacement under a safety recall or service campaign, at no cost to vehicle owners.
Additional Notes:
Accordingly to Toyota vehicle Maintenance Schedule, the vacuum pump for the brake booster needs to be replaced as a regular maintenance or "wear" item every 120,000 miles. This is a very expensive maintenance item (>$600 in parts, ~$1000 including labor and shop materials), that needs to be performed by a Toyota certified technician. In addition to being very expensive, what will discourage many vehicle owners from performing this service, one may expect that many owners who perform their own vehicle maintenance or use independent mechanic shops will simply miss this service altogether. Being a safety critical item, the vacuum pump should be designed to last the entire lifespan of the vehicle (just like other brake system components: ABS pump, vacuum booster, master cylinder, etc.). The short lifespan of the vacuum pump and the requirement to replace it on a regular basis is indicative of a defective or deficient design. Making the replacement of the vacuum pump a scheduled maintenance item is a just way for Toyota to avoid liability due to premature failures of a substandard safety component, especially in light that other brake system components are designed to last for the entire life of the vehicle, and are not considered wear items in the maintenance schedule (except for brake pads, of course). Toyota should redesign the vacuum pump to increase its lifespan in-line with the rest of the brake system components, and perform the replacement under a safety recall or service campaign, at no cost to vehicle owners.
Mfg Campaign: 11420488
Recall Date: Jun 10, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Car is not properly wired to tow a trailer equipped with electric brakes. Toyota advertises the Highlander as having 5000 lb towing capacity. On the other hand, trailers weighing 3000 lb or more are required by law to be equipped with trailers brakes in most states. However, the Highlander's towing wire harness does not include the necessary wiring and 7-pin connector to power trailer brakes. Highlander OEM wiring harness only includes a 4-pin connector (which does not have output for a car-mounted brake controller nor 12V output to charge trailer's breakaway battery or power a trailer-mounted brake controller). Toyota's claim that the Highlander is capable of towing 5000 lb, but not equipping the car with essential safety equipment to do so is an unsafe condition (and false advertising). It could lead the car owners / operators to believe that it is acceptable to tow a 3000 lb or more trailer with the Highlander using the OEM 4-pin connector only, creating a serious safety hazard to themselves and other road users. Toyota should either equip the Highlander with proper wiring harness and 7-pin connector that allows the use of an on-board brake controller, or withdraw the towing capacity claim.
Corrective Action:
Car is not properly wired to tow a trailer equipped with electric brakes. Toyota advertises the Highlander as having 5000 lb towing capacity. On the other hand, trailers weighing 3000 lb or more are required by law to be equipped with trailers brakes in most states. However, the Highlander's towing wire harness does not include the necessary wiring and 7-pin connector to power trailer brakes. Highlander OEM wiring harness only includes a 4-pin connector (which does not have output for a car-mounted brake controller nor 12V output to charge trailer's breakaway battery or power a trailer-mounted brake controller). Toyota's claim that the Highlander is capable of towing 5000 lb, but not equipping the car with essential safety equipment to do so is an unsafe condition (and false advertising). It could lead the car owners / operators to believe that it is acceptable to tow a 3000 lb or more trailer with the Highlander using the OEM 4-pin connector only, creating a serious safety hazard to themselves and other road users. Toyota should either equip the Highlander with proper wiring harness and 7-pin connector that allows the use of an on-board brake controller, or withdraw the towing capacity claim.
Additional Notes:
Car is not properly wired to tow a trailer equipped with electric brakes. Toyota advertises the Highlander as having 5000 lb towing capacity. On the other hand, trailers weighing 3000 lb or more are required by law to be equipped with trailers brakes in most states. However, the Highlander's towing wire harness does not include the necessary wiring and 7-pin connector to power trailer brakes. Highlander OEM wiring harness only includes a 4-pin connector (which does not have output for a car-mounted brake controller nor 12V output to charge trailer's breakaway battery or power a trailer-mounted brake controller). Toyota's claim that the Highlander is capable of towing 5000 lb, but not equipping the car with essential safety equipment to do so is an unsafe condition (and false advertising). It could lead the car owners / operators to believe that it is acceptable to tow a 3000 lb or more trailer with the Highlander using the OEM 4-pin connector only, creating a serious safety hazard to themselves and other road users. Toyota should either equip the Highlander with proper wiring harness and 7-pin connector that allows the use of an on-board brake controller, or withdraw the towing capacity claim.
Mfg Campaign: 11419860
Recall Date: Jun 7, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARKING LOT UNTOUCHED ( WARM SUNNY DAY) . VEHICLE WAS PARKED . OWNER USED THE REMOTE HATCH OPENING BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE. WHEN THE HATCH/ LIFT GATE STARTED OPENING A LOUD CRACKING / BUSTING SOUND WAS MADE. THE SPOILER WAS SEPARATING ON THE SIDES FROM THE HATCH AS WELL. UPON INSPECTION, THE INSIDE PLASTIC HATCH COMPONENT HOLDING THE GLASS WINDOW WAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES AND THE METAL PIECE INSIDE HATCH WAS BENT. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE HATCH / LIFT GATE IS SUPPOSE TO SEPARATE HOWEVER HATCH WAS RUBBING UP AGAINST THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RISK , THE SPOILER LOCATED ON THE BACK OF VEHICLE ATTACHED TO THE HATCH , BECAME DETACHED FROM ITS MOUNTED POSITION. THIS CAUSED THE SPOILER TO SEPARATE AND OBSTRUCT THE HATCH LIFT GATE. SPOILER LOCATED ON BACK IS CAUSING THE LIFT GATE TO NOT OPEN AND WHEN OWNER OPENS THE HATCH THE DETACHED SPOILER WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO HATCH /LIFT GATE.
Corrective Action:
2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARKING LOT UNTOUCHED ( WARM SUNNY DAY) . VEHICLE WAS PARKED . OWNER USED THE REMOTE HATCH OPENING BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE. WHEN THE HATCH/ LIFT GATE STARTED OPENING A LOUD CRACKING / BUSTING SOUND WAS MADE. THE SPOILER WAS SEPARATING ON THE SIDES FROM THE HATCH AS WELL. UPON INSPECTION, THE INSIDE PLASTIC HATCH COMPONENT HOLDING THE GLASS WINDOW WAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES AND THE METAL PIECE INSIDE HATCH WAS BENT. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE HATCH / LIFT GATE IS SUPPOSE TO SEPARATE HOWEVER HATCH WAS RUBBING UP AGAINST THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RISK , THE SPOILER LOCATED ON THE BACK OF VEHICLE ATTACHED TO THE HATCH , BECAME DETACHED FROM ITS MOUNTED POSITION. THIS CAUSED THE SPOILER TO SEPARATE AND OBSTRUCT THE HATCH LIFT GATE. SPOILER LOCATED ON BACK IS CAUSING THE LIFT GATE TO NOT OPEN AND WHEN OWNER OPENS THE HATCH THE DETACHED SPOILER WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO HATCH /LIFT GATE.
Additional Notes:
2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARKING LOT UNTOUCHED ( WARM SUNNY DAY) . VEHICLE WAS PARKED . OWNER USED THE REMOTE HATCH OPENING BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE. WHEN THE HATCH/ LIFT GATE STARTED OPENING A LOUD CRACKING / BUSTING SOUND WAS MADE. THE SPOILER WAS SEPARATING ON THE SIDES FROM THE HATCH AS WELL. UPON INSPECTION, THE INSIDE PLASTIC HATCH COMPONENT HOLDING THE GLASS WINDOW WAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES AND THE METAL PIECE INSIDE HATCH WAS BENT. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE HATCH / LIFT GATE IS SUPPOSE TO SEPARATE HOWEVER HATCH WAS RUBBING UP AGAINST THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RISK , THE SPOILER LOCATED ON THE BACK OF VEHICLE ATTACHED TO THE HATCH , BECAME DETACHED FROM ITS MOUNTED POSITION. THIS CAUSED THE SPOILER TO SEPARATE AND OBSTRUCT THE HATCH LIFT GATE. SPOILER LOCATED ON BACK IS CAUSING THE LIFT GATE TO NOT OPEN AND WHEN OWNER OPENS THE HATCH THE DETACHED SPOILER WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO HATCH /LIFT GATE.
Mfg Campaign: 11407315
Recall Date: Apr 9, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARKING LOT UNTOUCHED ( WARM SUNNY DAY) . VEHICLE WAS PARKED . OWNER USED THE REMOTE HATCH OPENING BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE. WHEN THE HATCH/ LIFT GATE STARTED OPENING A LOUD CRACKING / BUSTING SOUND WAS MADE. THE SPOILER WAS SEPARATING ON THE SIDES FROM THE HATCH AS WELL. UPON INSPECTION, THE INSIDE PLASTIC HATCH COMPONENT HOLDING THE GLASS WINDOW WAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES AND THE METAL PIECE INSIDE HATCH WAS BENT. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE HATCH / LIFT GATE IS SUPPOSE TO SEPARATE HOWEVER HATCH WAS RUBBING UP AGAINST THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RISK , THE SPOILER LOCATED ON THE BACK OF VEHICLE ATTACHED TO THE HATCH , BECAME DETACHED FROM ITS MOUNTED POSITION. THIS CAUSED THE SPOILER TO SEPARATE AND OBSTRUCT THE HATCH LIFT GATE. SPOILER LOCATED ON BACK IS CAUSING THE LIFT GATE TO NOT OPEN AND WHEN OWNER OPENS THE HATCH THE DETACHED SPOILER WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO HATCH /LIFT GATE.
Corrective Action:
2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARKING LOT UNTOUCHED ( WARM SUNNY DAY) . VEHICLE WAS PARKED . OWNER USED THE REMOTE HATCH OPENING BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE. WHEN THE HATCH/ LIFT GATE STARTED OPENING A LOUD CRACKING / BUSTING SOUND WAS MADE. THE SPOILER WAS SEPARATING ON THE SIDES FROM THE HATCH AS WELL. UPON INSPECTION, THE INSIDE PLASTIC HATCH COMPONENT HOLDING THE GLASS WINDOW WAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES AND THE METAL PIECE INSIDE HATCH WAS BENT. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE HATCH / LIFT GATE IS SUPPOSE TO SEPARATE HOWEVER HATCH WAS RUBBING UP AGAINST THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RISK , THE SPOILER LOCATED ON THE BACK OF VEHICLE ATTACHED TO THE HATCH , BECAME DETACHED FROM ITS MOUNTED POSITION. THIS CAUSED THE SPOILER TO SEPARATE AND OBSTRUCT THE HATCH LIFT GATE. SPOILER LOCATED ON BACK IS CAUSING THE LIFT GATE TO NOT OPEN AND WHEN OWNER OPENS THE HATCH THE DETACHED SPOILER WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO HATCH /LIFT GATE.
Additional Notes:
2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARKING LOT UNTOUCHED ( WARM SUNNY DAY) . VEHICLE WAS PARKED . OWNER USED THE REMOTE HATCH OPENING BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE. WHEN THE HATCH/ LIFT GATE STARTED OPENING A LOUD CRACKING / BUSTING SOUND WAS MADE. THE SPOILER WAS SEPARATING ON THE SIDES FROM THE HATCH AS WELL. UPON INSPECTION, THE INSIDE PLASTIC HATCH COMPONENT HOLDING THE GLASS WINDOW WAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES AND THE METAL PIECE INSIDE HATCH WAS BENT. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE HATCH / LIFT GATE IS SUPPOSE TO SEPARATE HOWEVER HATCH WAS RUBBING UP AGAINST THE TOP OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RISK , THE SPOILER LOCATED ON THE BACK OF VEHICLE ATTACHED TO THE HATCH , BECAME DETACHED FROM ITS MOUNTED POSITION. THIS CAUSED THE SPOILER TO SEPARATE AND OBSTRUCT THE HATCH LIFT GATE. SPOILER LOCATED ON BACK IS CAUSING THE LIFT GATE TO NOT OPEN AND WHEN OWNER OPENS THE HATCH THE DETACHED SPOILER WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO HATCH /LIFT GATE.
Mfg Campaign: 11407315
Recall Date: Apr 9, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
1) BIGGEST ISSUE: I BOUGHT MY SUV NEW. IT WAS ADVERTISED 30/28 MPG. MY AVERAGE MPG SINCE I BOUGHT IT IS 22-23. 2) IT SLIDES WITH BARELY ANY ICE OR RAIN. IT IS AWFUL. IT SLIDE BACKWARD DOWN A SMALL HILL LAST YEAR & CAUSED ME TO CRASH. POLICE RESPONDED BUT WERE TOO BUSY WITH OTHER INCIDENTS TO WRITE A REPORT. I HAD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN DAMAGES & RENTAL CAR FEES FOR THE 5-6 WEEKS IT TOOK TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I LIVE IN THE PNW AND HAVE DRIVEN IN SNOW 35 YEARS. I'VE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PERFORMANCE. I HAD TO BY MICHELIN ICE TIRES THIS YEAR BC OUR SUV IS SO BAD IN SNOW & ICE. 3) I WAS IN A MINOR COLLISION IN A PARKING LOT BC I DIDN'T SEE ANOTHER CAR BACKING OUT AT THE SAME TIME AND THE COLLISION SENSOR DIDN'T GO OFF. MY SENSORS WERE CLEAN 4) WHEN THE SENSORS HAVE EVEN THE SMALLEST LAYER OF SNOW THEY STOP WORKING. THAT MAKES THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM STOP WORKING TOO. VERY FRUSTRATING. THE RESULT OF THESE ISSUES IS AN INCREASE BY $800/MO OF MY AUTO INSURANCE. BEFORE THIS SUV I HADN'T EVEN HAD A SPEEDING TICKET IN 14 YEARS. DATE OF ACCIDENT LISTED IS APPROXIMATION. NOW I HAVE 2 COLLISIONS. WISH I HAD PURCHASED SOMETHING ELSE.
Corrective Action:
1) BIGGEST ISSUE: I BOUGHT MY SUV NEW. IT WAS ADVERTISED 30/28 MPG. MY AVERAGE MPG SINCE I BOUGHT IT IS 22-23. 2) IT SLIDES WITH BARELY ANY ICE OR RAIN. IT IS AWFUL. IT SLIDE BACKWARD DOWN A SMALL HILL LAST YEAR & CAUSED ME TO CRASH. POLICE RESPONDED BUT WERE TOO BUSY WITH OTHER INCIDENTS TO WRITE A REPORT. I HAD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN DAMAGES & RENTAL CAR FEES FOR THE 5-6 WEEKS IT TOOK TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I LIVE IN THE PNW AND HAVE DRIVEN IN SNOW 35 YEARS. I'VE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PERFORMANCE. I HAD TO BY MICHELIN ICE TIRES THIS YEAR BC OUR SUV IS SO BAD IN SNOW & ICE. 3) I WAS IN A MINOR COLLISION IN A PARKING LOT BC I DIDN'T SEE ANOTHER CAR BACKING OUT AT THE SAME TIME AND THE COLLISION SENSOR DIDN'T GO OFF. MY SENSORS WERE CLEAN 4) WHEN THE SENSORS HAVE EVEN THE SMALLEST LAYER OF SNOW THEY STOP WORKING. THAT MAKES THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM STOP WORKING TOO. VERY FRUSTRATING. THE RESULT OF THESE ISSUES IS AN INCREASE BY $800/MO OF MY AUTO INSURANCE. BEFORE THIS SUV I HADN'T EVEN HAD A SPEEDING TICKET IN 14 YEARS. DATE OF ACCIDENT LISTED IS APPROXIMATION. NOW I HAVE 2 COLLISIONS. WISH I HAD PURCHASED SOMETHING ELSE.
Additional Notes:
1) BIGGEST ISSUE: I BOUGHT MY SUV NEW. IT WAS ADVERTISED 30/28 MPG. MY AVERAGE MPG SINCE I BOUGHT IT IS 22-23. 2) IT SLIDES WITH BARELY ANY ICE OR RAIN. IT IS AWFUL. IT SLIDE BACKWARD DOWN A SMALL HILL LAST YEAR & CAUSED ME TO CRASH. POLICE RESPONDED BUT WERE TOO BUSY WITH OTHER INCIDENTS TO WRITE A REPORT. I HAD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN DAMAGES & RENTAL CAR FEES FOR THE 5-6 WEEKS IT TOOK TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I LIVE IN THE PNW AND HAVE DRIVEN IN SNOW 35 YEARS. I'VE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PERFORMANCE. I HAD TO BY MICHELIN ICE TIRES THIS YEAR BC OUR SUV IS SO BAD IN SNOW & ICE. 3) I WAS IN A MINOR COLLISION IN A PARKING LOT BC I DIDN'T SEE ANOTHER CAR BACKING OUT AT THE SAME TIME AND THE COLLISION SENSOR DIDN'T GO OFF. MY SENSORS WERE CLEAN 4) WHEN THE SENSORS HAVE EVEN THE SMALLEST LAYER OF SNOW THEY STOP WORKING. THAT MAKES THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM STOP WORKING TOO. VERY FRUSTRATING. THE RESULT OF THESE ISSUES IS AN INCREASE BY $800/MO OF MY AUTO INSURANCE. BEFORE THIS SUV I HADN'T EVEN HAD A SPEEDING TICKET IN 14 YEARS. DATE OF ACCIDENT LISTED IS APPROXIMATION. NOW I HAVE 2 COLLISIONS. WISH I HAD PURCHASED SOMETHING ELSE.
Mfg Campaign: 11405147
Recall Date: Mar 27, 2021
Toyota Motor Corporation
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
1) BIGGEST ISSUE: I BOUGHT MY SUV NEW. IT WAS ADVERTISED 30/28 MPG. MY AVERAGE MPG SINCE I BOUGHT IT IS 22-23. 2) IT SLIDES WITH BARELY ANY ICE OR RAIN. IT IS AWFUL. IT SLIDE BACKWARD DOWN A SMALL HILL LAST YEAR & CAUSED ME TO CRASH. POLICE RESPONDED BUT WERE TOO BUSY WITH OTHER INCIDENTS TO WRITE A REPORT. I HAD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN DAMAGES & RENTAL CAR FEES FOR THE 5-6 WEEKS IT TOOK TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I LIVE IN THE PNW AND HAVE DRIVEN IN SNOW 35 YEARS. I'VE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PERFORMANCE. I HAD TO BY MICHELIN ICE TIRES THIS YEAR BC OUR SUV IS SO BAD IN SNOW & ICE. 3) I WAS IN A MINOR COLLISION IN A PARKING LOT BC I DIDN'T SEE ANOTHER CAR BACKING OUT AT THE SAME TIME AND THE COLLISION SENSOR DIDN'T GO OFF. MY SENSORS WERE CLEAN 4) WHEN THE SENSORS HAVE EVEN THE SMALLEST LAYER OF SNOW THEY STOP WORKING. THAT MAKES THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM STOP WORKING TOO. VERY FRUSTRATING. THE RESULT OF THESE ISSUES IS AN INCREASE BY $800/MO OF MY AUTO INSURANCE. BEFORE THIS SUV I HADN'T EVEN HAD A SPEEDING TICKET IN 14 YEARS. DATE OF ACCIDENT LISTED IS APPROXIMATION. NOW I HAVE 2 COLLISIONS. WISH I HAD PURCHASED SOMETHING ELSE.
Corrective Action:
1) BIGGEST ISSUE: I BOUGHT MY SUV NEW. IT WAS ADVERTISED 30/28 MPG. MY AVERAGE MPG SINCE I BOUGHT IT IS 22-23. 2) IT SLIDES WITH BARELY ANY ICE OR RAIN. IT IS AWFUL. IT SLIDE BACKWARD DOWN A SMALL HILL LAST YEAR & CAUSED ME TO CRASH. POLICE RESPONDED BUT WERE TOO BUSY WITH OTHER INCIDENTS TO WRITE A REPORT. I HAD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN DAMAGES & RENTAL CAR FEES FOR THE 5-6 WEEKS IT TOOK TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I LIVE IN THE PNW AND HAVE DRIVEN IN SNOW 35 YEARS. I'VE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PERFORMANCE. I HAD TO BY MICHELIN ICE TIRES THIS YEAR BC OUR SUV IS SO BAD IN SNOW & ICE. 3) I WAS IN A MINOR COLLISION IN A PARKING LOT BC I DIDN'T SEE ANOTHER CAR BACKING OUT AT THE SAME TIME AND THE COLLISION SENSOR DIDN'T GO OFF. MY SENSORS WERE CLEAN 4) WHEN THE SENSORS HAVE EVEN THE SMALLEST LAYER OF SNOW THEY STOP WORKING. THAT MAKES THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM STOP WORKING TOO. VERY FRUSTRATING. THE RESULT OF THESE ISSUES IS AN INCREASE BY $800/MO OF MY AUTO INSURANCE. BEFORE THIS SUV I HADN'T EVEN HAD A SPEEDING TICKET IN 14 YEARS. DATE OF ACCIDENT LISTED IS APPROXIMATION. NOW I HAVE 2 COLLISIONS. WISH I HAD PURCHASED SOMETHING ELSE.
Additional Notes:
1) BIGGEST ISSUE: I BOUGHT MY SUV NEW. IT WAS ADVERTISED 30/28 MPG. MY AVERAGE MPG SINCE I BOUGHT IT IS 22-23. 2) IT SLIDES WITH BARELY ANY ICE OR RAIN. IT IS AWFUL. IT SLIDE BACKWARD DOWN A SMALL HILL LAST YEAR & CAUSED ME TO CRASH. POLICE RESPONDED BUT WERE TOO BUSY WITH OTHER INCIDENTS TO WRITE A REPORT. I HAD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN DAMAGES & RENTAL CAR FEES FOR THE 5-6 WEEKS IT TOOK TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I LIVE IN THE PNW AND HAVE DRIVEN IN SNOW 35 YEARS. I'VE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PERFORMANCE. I HAD TO BY MICHELIN ICE TIRES THIS YEAR BC OUR SUV IS SO BAD IN SNOW & ICE. 3) I WAS IN A MINOR COLLISION IN A PARKING LOT BC I DIDN'T SEE ANOTHER CAR BACKING OUT AT THE SAME TIME AND THE COLLISION SENSOR DIDN'T GO OFF. MY SENSORS WERE CLEAN 4) WHEN THE SENSORS HAVE EVEN THE SMALLEST LAYER OF SNOW THEY STOP WORKING. THAT MAKES THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM STOP WORKING TOO. VERY FRUSTRATING. THE RESULT OF THESE ISSUES IS AN INCREASE BY $800/MO OF MY AUTO INSURANCE. BEFORE THIS SUV I HADN'T EVEN HAD A SPEEDING TICKET IN 14 YEARS. DATE OF ACCIDENT LISTED IS APPROXIMATION. NOW I HAVE 2 COLLISIONS. WISH I HAD PURCHASED SOMETHING ELSE.
Mfg Campaign: 11405147
Recall Date: Mar 27, 2021
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