Toyota has announced a defective auto product recall involving about 95,700 Toyota Scions and Corolla that were sold in 19 U.S. states where cold weather could trigger a brake-related problem. According to a CBS news report, the recall affects some 2009 and 2010 Corolla and Corolla Matrix models as well as 2008 and 2009 Scion xD vehicles. If the cars are driven in extremely low ambient temperatures, there is a possibility that the condensed moisture from the positive crankcase ventilation port may seep into the brake system vacuum port and freeze, according to a company statement.
This ice build up in the brake system vacuum port can ultimately plug the vacuum port. As a result, power assist to the brakes would gradually decrease and lead to lengthened vehicle stopping distances. Owners of the recalled Toyota cars will begin to receive their safety recall notifications by mail next month. When the recall begins, Toyota dealers will install a newly designed air connector, which relocates the brake system vacuum port, for free. No other Toyota, Lexus or Scion vehicles are involved. So far, no injuries have been reported as a result of this vehicle defect.
Brake Defects Can Lead to Car Accidents
Brake defects in vehicles invariably contribute to car accidents that can cause devastating personal injuries or even death to its occupants. I’m glad that Toyota has recalled these defective vehicles. As drivers, we count on our brakes to be able to stop the car. Since brakes also help reduce the speed of the vehicle, lack of braking function could lead to catastrophic collisions. Numerous people are killed in California and the rest of the country because of defective brakes with problems such as ABS failures, brake-line defects, brake fluid leaks or premature lock-up. Many also suffer devastating injuries because of defective parking brakes.
Auto Products Liability Attorney
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured as a result of a defectively manufactured or defectively designed auto product, please consult with a reputed California personal injury lawyer who is experienced in auto products liability cases and has access to experts who will analyze the crashed vehicles for evidence of defects or malfunction. It is the duty of auto makers to design and manufacture safe vehicles. When they make dangerous or defective products that injure or kill consumers, they should be held accountable for it. Consumers should not be made to pay for an auto maker’s negligence.