Toyota Power Window Recall Impacts 2 Million U.S. Cars
Toyota Power Window Recall Impacts 2 Million U.S. Cars
This Wednesday morning, Oct. 21, Toyota, U.S.A., Inc. issued a press release announcing that about 2 million automobiles in the U.S. are being recalled due to a safety risk. The issue involves a potential fire hazard with the Power Window Master Switch on the driver’s side.
According to the release, the switch was insufficiently lubricated, leading to the possibility that the switch could short circuit. The short circuit can then overheat and melt, causing smoke and possibly fire.
The following vehicles have been affected:
2007 and 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid
2009-2011 Corolla
2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid
2009-2011 Matrix
2006-2011 RAV4R
2009-2011 Scion xB
2009-2011 Scion xD
2009-2011 Sequoia
2009-2011 Tundra
2006-2011 Yaris
Owners should be notified by first-class-mail and can bring their car to an authorized Toyota dealer. Dealers will inspect the switch and apply grease or replace the circuit board depending on the status of the unit. Toyota owners can also visit the website and enter their Vehicle Identification Number to see if their car is affected.
Although no accidents have been reported as a result of the defective product, the hazard remains an issue. If the driver-side door panel started to smoke or catch fire, it could create panic in the driver, increasing the risk of an accident. Worse yet, it could actually lead to the interior of the car setting fire, or catching on the driver’s clothes, causing severe burns and smoke inhalation.
If you smell burning plastic or see smoke emanating from the inside of your car, pull over, turn off your engine and exit the vehicle. Step at least 100 feet from the vehicle and call emergency services for assistance. Do not take chances and assume the fire is small and will put itself out.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car fire due to a product defect or manufacturer error, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Simien & Simien today. We will fight for the justice you deserve.
