According to an article posted on USA Today.com, Toyota has initiated a worldwide vehicle recall for Prius hybrid vehicles due to steering system defects and/or water pump defects; 1,020,367 of these are being recalled in the U.S.
The first set of recalled vehicles includes 669,705 model year 2004 to 2009 Priuses, which were manufactured from August 5, 2003 through March 30, 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These vehicles are equipped with a steering intermediate extension shaft assembly that is built with metal splines to connect the steering gear to the steering wheel. The splines may have been constructed using material of insufficient hardness, which can lead to undue wear over time and eventually failure, causing a loss of steering ability, and increasing the chances of a car accident. The safety recall for these vehicles commenced in or about December 2012.
The second U.S. recall includes 350,662 Toyota Prius and FCHV-adv vehicles, according to the NHTSA. Certain model year 2004 to 2009 Prius vehicles produced from August 6, 2012 through March 30, 2009 as well as FCHV-adv vehicles produced from December 12, 2008 through September 13, 2011 may have a water pump defect, which could cause the electrically driven water pump to stop working and/or may cause an electrical short, which could stall the hybrid system while the car is being driven, increasing the risk of a car accident. No notification schedule has been provided for this recall yet.
For more information, owners of the recalled vehicles may call their Toyota dealer, or the Toyota customer service center at (800) 331-4331.
The auto product liability lawyers at Blume Forte have the necessary experience, skills, and resources to help injured consumers hold negligent auto manufacturers liable for dangerous defects. If you have been injured in New Jersey due to an auto product defect, we can help you determine whether you may have a valid claim. To discuss your potential options with one of our attorneys, call us at 973-845-4421.