Toyota has announced a recall of about 168,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to a possible fuel leak that could cause a fire. The recall affects certain 2022 and 2023 model year Toyota Tundra and Tundra Hybrid pickups. The company said that the plastic fuel tube in these vehicles could move and rub against a brake line, resulting in a fuel leak. If the leaked fuel comes in contact with an ignition source, it could cause a fire.
Toyota is Preparing Remedy Parts for the Recall
According to a recall notice posted on Toyota’s website, the company is “currently preparing the remedy parts for this recall.” In the meantime, owners of the affected vehicles can have their dealers install protective materials in their cars and provide a clamp on the fuel tubes for free. Toyota said that it will notify owners of the recalled vehicles by early October.
Owners Can Check Their Vehicle Identification Number Online
Owners who want to check if their vehicle is involved in the recall can visit Toyota’s recall website and enter their vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate information. They can also call the Toyota Brand Engagement Center at 1-800-331-4331 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 for more information.
Toyota Has Faced Several Recalls in Recent Years
This is not the first time that Toyota has recalled its vehicles for fire risks. In 2018, the company recalled more than a million Prius and C-HR hybrids worldwide due to a wiring issue that could cause a fire. In 2016, it recalled about 3.4 million vehicles globally for faulty airbags that could rupture and spray metal fragments. In 2014, it recalled about 6.5 million vehicles worldwide for defective power window switches that could overheat and catch fire.
Toyota is not the only automaker that has faced recalls for fire hazards. In July, Ford recalled about 775,000 Explorer SUVs worldwide for a steering issue that could cause a crash and a fire. In June, Hyundai recalled about 390,000 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada for an engine defect that could cause a fire. In May, Tesla recalled about 6,000 vehicles in the U.S. for loose brake caliper bolts that could cause a tire puncture and a fire.
Recalls Can Affect Consumer Trust and Brand Reputation
Recalls can have negative impacts on consumer trust and brand reputation, especially if they involve safety issues that could harm drivers and passengers. Recalls can also cost automakers millions of dollars in repairs, fines, lawsuits, and lost sales. According to a study by J.D. Power, vehicle owners who experience a recall are less likely to repurchase or recommend the same brand than those who do not.
However, recalls can also be an opportunity for automakers to demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction and quality improvement. By promptly notifying owners of potential defects, providing free repairs, and offering compensation or incentives, automakers can regain consumer confidence and loyalty. According to another study by J.D. Power, vehicle owners who are satisfied with their recall experience are more likely to repurchase or recommend the same brand than those who are dissatisfied.
