Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, recently announced a recall of 7.43 million cars due to defects in the power window switches that could cause fire. This recall comes on the heels of Toyota’s recent $1 billion settlement of sudden acceleration lawsuits. Toyota, once thought of as the pinnacle of safety, has suffered some severe adverse consequences as a result. This is the single biggest recall since Ford Motor Company recalled 7.9 million vehicles in 1996. Toyota had more vehicles recalled in the United States than any other automobile manufacturer in 2010, and almost achieved the same distinction in 2011 (a late recall surge by Honda that year saved Toyota). Many drivers have reported that the power window switch on the driver’s side appears “sticky”. If they try to apply a lubricant to the switch, the switch assembly may melt or smoke which could lead to a fire under certain circumstances. In the United States, the following vehicles are involved in the recall:
  • 2007 – 2009 Camry sedans, approx. 938,100 vehicles
  • 2007 – 2009 Camry Hybrids, approx. 116,800 vehicles
  • 2007 – 2009 RAV4 crossovers, approx. 336,400 vehicles
  • 2007 – 2009 Tundra pickups, approx. 337,100 vehicles
  • 2007 – 2008 Yaris subcompacts, approx. 110,300 vehicles
  • 2008 Highlander SUVs, approx. 135,400 vehicles
  • 2008 Highlander Hybrids, approx. 23,200 vehicles
  • 2008 – 2009 Scion xD models, approx. 34,400 vehicles
  • 2008 – 2009 Scion xA models, approx. 77,500 vehicles
  • 2008- 2009 Sequoia SUVs, approx. 38,500 vehicles
  • 2009 Corolla compacts, approx. 270,900 vehicles
  • 2009 Matrix crossovers; approx. 53,800 vehicles
To see if your vehicle is included in the recall, go to Toyota’s recall page. According to Toyota, the service involved with the recall will take a little more than one hour. This latest recall will probably undermine Toyota’s reputation for quality once again. If you drive a car that has been recalled, take it in for service. If you’ve been injured by one of these cars, consult with a knowledgeable automobile accident attorney.