As this is such a serious matter, here are the words (without filter) direct from Toyota. Stay safe out there folks and please heed the following advice if you have a new Toyota. Note, my emphasis.
“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.
This is caused because the accelerator pedal mechanisms concerned may become worn. This progressive wear, combined with certain operating and environmental conditions, can cause friction in the mechanism to increase and intermittently result in the accelerator pedal being harder to depress, slow to return or, in the worst case, stick in a partially open position.
In case of occurrence, the driver may notice that the accelerator pedal is progressively harder to depress or is slower to return. A rough or chattered feeling may also be experienced when depressing/releasing the accelerator pedal.
Toyota will implement a recall in Europe for this matter. The details of corrective action and implementation will be communicated directly to customers with vehicles potentially affected.
The models and exact number of potentially affected vehicles is under investigation.
A running change in production using different parts has already been implemented model-by-model in the European production. Therefore there is no need or intention to stop production in Europe.
Whilst this condition is rare we advise customers who have concerns to contact Toyota GB Customer Relations (0800 1388744) for assistance ahead of the recall instructions being issued.”
As further information becomes available it will be posted at www.toyota.co.uk, and of course here.
unparalled60 says
February 2, 2010 at 3:00 amThe toyota has experienced its largest recall. I hope they don’t lose too much customers from this occurence.
Peter Harwood says
February 10, 2010 at 2:26 pmMy wife bought a Toyota Yaris D4D automatic in October 2006 and shortly after buying it when I was driving it I noticed the accelerator was slow to return on a couple of occasions. It was taken back to Jemca Sidcup who supplied it who could find no fault with it. Some days later she also experienced the same fault and again it was taken back to Jemca who again said no problem could be found. Since then the fault has not occurred. It is going in next week for the modification.
I will say, however this has not put us off Toyota’s, I also drive one and we have owned ten of them in the past and have never experienced any trouble whatsoever with any of them. They are in my opinion the most reliable car money can buy.