Toyota is currently grappling with one of its most expensive and complex recalls to date. The recall pertains to a defect found in the V-6 twin-turbocharged engines that power both the Tundra pickup trucks and the luxurious Lexus LX SUVs.
This issue impacts vehicles from the 2022 and 2023 model years, specifically, those manufactured between November 2021 and February 2023. For the Lexus LX, the affected vehicles were produced between July 2021 and November 2022.
Why has Toyota recalled some cars?
The defect that has led to this extensive recall can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving, which significantly increases the risk of a crash. The primary cause of this problem is machining debris left inside the engine during production. This debris can result in engine knocking, rough operation, difficulty starting, and, in the most severe cases, a total loss of power.
Back in May this year, Toyota informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about this issue. At that time, the company estimated that only 1% of the 102,092 potentially affected vehicles might actually exhibit the defect.
However, this estimate was largely influenced by limitations in NHTSA’s reporting system. Toyota clarified that it was unable to provide a precise count of the affected vehicles.
- The recall involves both Tundra pickup trucks and Lexus LX SUVs.
- Affected vehicles were produced between November 2021 and February 2023 for Tundra and July 2021 to November 2022 for Lexus LX.
- The main issue is machining debris left inside the engine during production.
- This debris can cause engine knocking, rough operation, difficulty starting, and total loss of power.
- Toyota notified NHTSA in May 2024, estimating that 1% of the vehicles might be affected.
As Toyota works diligently to resolve this issue, it’s important for owners of the affected vehicles to stay informed and take necessary precautions. If you own one of these vehicles, keep an eye out for updates from Toyota and NHTSA regarding this recall.
In a bold move, Toyota has decided on a drastic solution to address a significant issue: a complete engine replacement. Two months after the initial filing, the company was still unable to determine the exact number of vehicles affected. As a result, Toyota made the radical decision to replace the engines in every potentially impacted vehicle. This massive undertaking involves swapping out the engines in over 100,000 vehicles, including approximately 98,600 Tundras and 3,500 Lexus LX SUVs.
Which Toyota models have been recalled?
Toyota has issued multiple recalls affecting a wide range of models across different years, including the 4Runner, Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, and more.
In February 2024, Toyota recalled over 300,000 vehicles across three separate recalls in one day, affecting certain Tundra, Sequoia, Lexus, Camry, Camry Hybrid and Mirai models.
The largest February 2024 recall involved around 280,000 2022-2024 Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Sequoia and Lexus LX 600 vehicles due to a transmission issue that may allow the vehicle to move unexpectedly when in neutral.
Other recent recalls include:
- 42,199 2023-2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid vehicles for a software error that may result in loss of power brake assist
- 43,395 2023-2024 Sequoia Hybrid vehicles for a tow hitch cover that may detach
- 102,092 2022-2023 Tundra and Lexus LX600 vehicles for potential engine debris causing main bearing failure
- 55,690 2023-2024 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles for a rear door switch short circuit issue
Scope of the Solution
This solution specifically targets the non-hybrid versions of the 3.4-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged engines, known as V35A. It’s important to note that hybrid Tundra models are not included in this recall. In the event of an engine failure, the electric motors in these hybrid models can still power the vehicle, providing a built-in safeguard.
How the Issue Was Discovered
The examination started a couple of years ago, in March 2022 when a customer reported a sudden engine stall. Upon examination, Toyota found that the main engine bearings had seized. As more reports came in, it became evident that machining debris was the culprit behind these engine failures.
- Drastic solution: Complete engine replacement for over 100,000 vehicles
- Non-hybrid 3.4-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged engines (V35A) are affected
- Hybrid Tundra models are excluded due to their electric motor backup
- Machining debris identified as the cause of engine failures
Toyota’s commitment to resolving this issue demonstrates their dedication to customer safety and satisfaction. While the scale of this engine replacement is unprecedented, it underscores the importance of addressing such critical issues head-on.
By 2023, Toyota had accumulated a staggering 166 technical reports and 824 warranty claims related to a particular engine issue. This mounting evidence led the company to take swift action by issuing a voluntary recall of the affected vehicles. Interestingly, even engines that initially seemed to be in good condition were found to have underlying problems after thorough inspections.
Financial Impact of the Recall
Replacing over 100,000 engines is no small feat and will come at a significant cost to Toyota. Beyond the expense of the new engines themselves, the company must also account for the labour costs associated with removing the faulty engines and installing the replacements.
There is a growing concern that this massive recall could impact the production of new vehicles, as some of the manufacturing capacity may need to be redirected to produce replacement engines for the recall.
Comprehensive Safety Measures
Despite the high cost, Toyota has been praised for its comprehensive approach to safety. The company is committed to addressing the issue head-on, even though the exact number of vehicles at risk remains uncertain.
Toyota plans to send notices to vehicle owners before the end of the month, informing them about the recall and outlining the next steps.
- 166 Technical Reports – Highlighting the scope of the issue.
- 824 Warranty Claims – Indicating widespread concern among vehicle owners.
- Voluntary Recall – Demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to customer safety.
- Financial Impact – Significant costs involved in replacing over 100,000 engines.
- Labour Costs – Additional expenses for engine removal and installation.
- Production Concerns – Potential impact on the manufacturing of new vehicles.
In conclusion, while the financial impact of this recall is substantial, Toyota’s dedication to ensuring the safety of its customers has been commendable. By proactively addressing the issue, the company aims to maintain its reputation for quality and reliability in the automotive industry.
Toyota’s Commitment to Long-Term Customer Trust
This recall underscores Toyota’s unwavering dedication to maintaining long-term customer trust by tackling issues directly, regardless of their scale or the associated costs. Even though only a small percentage of the affected vehicles might face engine failure, Toyota’s decision to replace over 100,000 engines speaks volumes about its proactive approach to safety and reliability.
