Toyota recalls 100,000 vehicles over stalled engines

Toyota has announced a recall of approximately 102,000 vehicles, including the Tundra and Lexus LX 600, due to engine debris that can cause stalling.

Toyota is set to recall about 102,000 vehicles, including 3,500 Lexus LX 600 SUVs from the 2022 and 2023 model years and 98,600 Toyota Tundra pickups from the same period. The recall is due to engine debris that can lead to stalling and loss of drive power, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The NHTSA has identified that debris in the trucks' V35A engines can cause serious issues. "If the aforementioned machining debris adheres to the bearings and operation of the engine continues at higher loads over time, failure of the bearings may occur," the NHTSA stated. "This can lead to potential engine knocking, engine rough running, engine no start and/or an engine stall."

Hybrid vehicles affected by this issue can continue to drive for limited distances even if the engine fails. However, the risk remains significant. The recall originated from reports of engine failures in March 2022. The timeline provided by the NHTSA does not mention any injuries or deaths related to these issues.

Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notifications by July 29. As of now, no immediate remedy is available. Michael Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, mentioned that this recall might take longer to resolve. "The Toyota recall looks like one that is headed for a longer remedy," Brooks said.

Despite the lengthy process, the recall notice should help drivers recognize signs of potential problems with their vehicles. "Drivers are also provided with signs to look for that might precede the safety problem — engine knocking and rough running can tip them off to the fact that they need to stop driving the vehicle or risk stalling/loss of motive power, which is the real danger here," Brooks added.

Lexus and Toyota have stated that vehicle owners can request a loaner vehicle for $55 per day. For more information, owners are advised to contact the NHTSA safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

Credit: Autoblog