Toyota announced today they will begin to recall all 2010 Prius Hybrid and 2010 Lexus HS 250h vehicles because of braking systems malfunctioning. Also added to the voluntary recall is the 2010 Camry equipped with the 4-cylinder engine.
Approximately 133,000 Prius’, 14,550 Lexus’ and 7,300 Camry vehicles are involved in this recent voluntary recall made by Toyota after allegations from drivers complaining about their brakes not working. This number reflects the vehicles sold in the U.S.
The problem with the 2010 Prius and 2010 Lexus HS 250h vehicles stems from the anti-lock brake system, where some owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of the brakes. This is happening on rough or slick road surfaces, when the ABS comes on in an effort to maintain tire traction.
The fix for the ABS brake problem in these vehicles is a software update to the ABS system to fix the inconsistent braking.
Toyota is saying the software update should take about 30 minutes to install and of course this estimated time is dependent on the work flow at the dealership. Toyota will cover all repair costs associated with this fix for the customer.
The issue with the Camry vehicles that are equipped with the 4-cylinder engine, is to do with a steering pressure hose in the engine compartment that may be the incorrect length. If this is the case, the power steering pressure hose may come in contact with the brake tube, causing a hole to wear in the brake tube causing the brake fluid to leak.
Toyota says if this is happening in the Camry, the dealer technician will adjust the space between the brake tube and the power steering pressure hose, and they may have to replace the brake tube if a hole has produced.
In all three cases, Toyota instructs customers who experience brake issues, to press hard on the brake pedal and the vehicle will stop safely.
According to Toyota, letters by mail will start to go out to consumers who have these affected vehicles this week instructing the owners when they should bring their vehicle into the dealership to be fixed. by if a consumer has one of these vehicles, they need to take it to their local Toyota dealer to have the technician inspect it and install either the software update or fix the break fluid tube (on the Camry).
For more information, click here, or customers can call the Toyota Customer Experience Center at: 800-331-4331 and Lexus customers can call the Lexus Customer Assistance Center at: 800-255-3987.
