Toyota is now under federal investigation after two crashes and five injuries have been linked to steering and braking problems in over 100,000 Toyota sport utility vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) told Reuters that it has 135 complaints from 2001-2002 Toyota Sequoia SUV owners citing incidents of unexpected vehicle stability control activations which have resulted in automatic braking of the left or right wheel, as well as unexpected steering pull.
Before a recall is deemed necessary, the NHTSA will conduct a preliminary probe into the vehicle’s issues. About half of the complaints which have been filed said the problems were caused by a faulty sensor, and most complaints reported unexpected activation at highway speeds which led to drivers feeling a “jerk” from their steering wheel. According to the Reuters article, this is not the first time this decade that Toyota has had to consider recalling their vehicles. In 2010, Toyota recalled 50,000 2003 Sequoia SUVs because the vehicle stability control system could activate at low speeds. Toyota insisted at the time that the issue was not a safety issue, but the company agreed to recall the vehicles.
“We are aware that the NHTSA has opened a Preliminary Evaluation concerning the 2001 and 2002 model year Sequoia. Customer safety and satisfaction is a top priority for Toyota. We will cooperate with the agency in its investigation, as we have previously,” Toyota spokeswoman Cindy Knight said in a statement. Knight also requested that any drivers who may be experiencing similar issues with their vehicles should contact their dealers immediately.
Is your car driving on its own but is not an self-driving car? Car defects that are not properly repaired or replaced can lead to severe injuries and even death. If you see a recall out for your vehicle, even if it's for a minor defect, it is important that you have your car fixed or replaced as soon as possible. If you or somebody you know has been involved in an accident which was caused by a car defect, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys will fight to the fullest extent of the law to get you the help necessary for you to recover from your injuries. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.