Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

''Pedal to the metal'' means headaches for Toyota

Get the best interest rate
Bertrand Godin
Investigations have revealed that, in some rare cases, the gas pedal can either stay depressed or take excessive time to regain its initial position. I’m sure you’ve heard all about it by now. But do you know what to do if such situation occurs while you’re driving?

I’ve experienced all sorts of misfortunes and mishaps in my racing career. More often than not, however, I was able to anticipate them and react accordingly. Unfortunately, driving courses seldom include training on how to deal with sticking accelerators.

Some will advise you to cut off the ignition. How dangerous! Your power steering may no longer cooperate as a result, preventing you from safely steering your vehicle.

Others will tell you to push hard on the brakes. Once again, this is ill-advised especially with a FWD car on a slippery surface; the front wheels will slow down gradually while the rear (non-driving) wheels will decelerate faster and may even lock. You’re almost assured of losing control of your car.

Should your gas pedal get stuck, I recommend you to stay calm and move the shifter to neutral. True, your engine will probably scream at you, but the good news is that there’s an electronic cutout specifically designed to keep it in check. Then, flash your turn signal, safely pull to the side of the road and shut off the engine once you’ve come to a full stop. Call your Toyota dealer immediately to receive help.

The chances of running into a situation like this are awfully slim but they still exist. That’s why it pays to know exactly how to react.

Be careful!

Bertrand Godin
Bertrand Godin
Automotive expert
None