In North America the recall involves 2005-08 model year Corolla and Matrix compact cars. These 2005-08 model year Corolla and Matrix compact cars are equipped with 1ZZ-FE engines and two-wheel drive. No other Toyota or Lexus brand vehicles are involved in the recall.
The stalling problem in these 2005-08 model year Corolla and Matrix compact cars is believed to have been caused by cracks that can develop at certain solder points or on the electronic component. These solder points and electronic components are used to protect circuits from excessive voltage on circuit board of the module.
The engine of a 2005-08 model year Corolla and Matrix compact car could stop while the vehicle is in motion.
There have been three alleged accidents one of which is a minor injury due to this condition. In response to complaints by consumers, federal officials stepped up their investigation into 2005, 2006 and 2007 model year Corolla and Matrix cars. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the investigation into 2005, 2006 and 2007 model year Corolla and Matrix cars began on the 18th of August.
General Motors is also recalling more than 200,000 Pontiac Vibes for the same problem, separately. The Vibe, like the Matrix was built under a joint venture between Toyota and GM at the same factory in Fremont, California.
Toyota and GM will begin notifying consumers of affected vehicles by mid-September. They will be instructed to take their cars to a dealer to have the module replaced at no charge. The Pontiac brand has been phased out but the Pontiac Vibe owners can take their cars to other GM dealerships for service.
The recall of 1.13 million Corolla and Matrix compact cars is the latest in a series of recalls by Toyota, the world’s largest automaker this year. Since January, Toyota has recalled about 10 million cars worldwide. This was to fix problems related to unintended acceleration, erratic brakes, defective software and other issues.
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