Can it possibly get worse? Well, yes it can! The U.S. government told the Japanese automaker that it cannot deliver any vehicle subjected to the throttle recall. Dealers can still sell them, but buyers won’t be able to pick them up until proof has been made that the problem is fixed.
The eight Toyota models are: RAV4, Corolla and Matrix (2009-2010), Avalon (2005-2010), Highlander (2010), Tundra (2007-2010), Sequoia (2008-2010) and some Camrys (2007-2010).
According to Toyota Canada, not a single throttle malfunction has been reported in Canada yet. Therefore, the company presses customers not to rush to their dealer. Instead, they are asked to wait for a letter that will inform them of the steps to follow. Replacement parts are expected to be shipped to dealers shortly. Production and delivery might even resume as early as on February 10.
In the meantime, Toyota and CTS have made changes to the materials used to manufacture the throttle mechanism, which should fix the problem for good. Also being developed is a simple technique that dealers will be able to apply quickly to their customers’ vehicles.
Rivals take advantage
Bad news at Toyota is good news for competitors. GM (both in Canada and the U.S.), Ford and Hyundai have already confirmed their plan to offer additional rebates to Toyota owners who’d like to trade in their problematic vehicle for one of theirs.
photo:Philippe Champoux, Matthieu Lambert
The eight Toyota models are: RAV4, Corolla and Matrix (2009-2010), Avalon (2005-2010), Highlander (2010), Tundra (2007-2010), Sequoia (2008-2010) and some Camrys (2007-2010).
 |
| 2009 Toyota RAV4 |
According to Toyota Canada, not a single throttle malfunction has been reported in Canada yet. Therefore, the company presses customers not to rush to their dealer. Instead, they are asked to wait for a letter that will inform them of the steps to follow. Replacement parts are expected to be shipped to dealers shortly. Production and delivery might even resume as early as on February 10.
In the meantime, Toyota and CTS have made changes to the materials used to manufacture the throttle mechanism, which should fix the problem for good. Also being developed is a simple technique that dealers will be able to apply quickly to their customers’ vehicles.
Rivals take advantage
Bad news at Toyota is good news for competitors. GM (both in Canada and the U.S.), Ford and Hyundai have already confirmed their plan to offer additional rebates to Toyota owners who’d like to trade in their problematic vehicle for one of theirs.
photo:Philippe Champoux, Matthieu Lambert