Toyota Motor Corporation has issued its latest recall, this time affecting 242,000 hybrid vehicles around the globe. According to CNN Money, Prius and Lexus cars made between March and October 2009 are being recalled due to brake defects.
After receiving more than 90 complaints, Toyota investigated claims that drivers had to step on brakes more heavily than normal in order to stop the vehicle. This increased braking difficulty can endanger drivers.
Of the 242,000 vehicles recalled for brake defects, 117,000 are in Japan, 91,000 are in North America, and 30,000 are in Europe.
Toyota reports that nitrogen gas from the brake booster pump leaks into the brake fluid, which reduces hydraulic pressure and the effectiveness of the brake pedals.
The automakers will be recalling the 2010 Prius and the 2010 Lexus HS250h beginning in late July 2013, during which time dealers will replace brake booster pump assemblies.
For more information, Toyota can be contacted at (800) 331-4331. Additionally, vehicle owners can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline by calling (888) 327-4236 or by visiting www.safercar.gov.
If you have been injured in an accident due to a vehicle’s defects, you may be confused concerning your rights and what steps you should take next. With a no-cost consultation provided by the legal team at Blume Forte, you can find out more about how you may be able to recover for your losses. We can be reached at 973-845-4421.