NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
403 reports1,000 miles · Feb 7, 2010
Tires
MY WIFE'S 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT WITH 19" RIMS CAME WITH BRIDGESTONE DUELER H/L 400 TIRES. THIS TIRE HAPPENS TO BE THE ONLY TIRE MADE TO FIT THIS RIM OTHER THAN A TOYOTA OPEN COUNTRY WHICH APPARENTLY WAS STANDARD ON THE HYBRID MODEL. WE FOUND THIS TIRE TO BE UNFIT AND UNSAFE FOR A 4,500 LB VEHICLE OF THIS SCALE. THESE T…
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MY WIFE'S 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT WITH 19" RIMS CAME WITH BRIDGESTONE DUELER H/L 400 TIRES. THIS TIRE HAPPENS TO BE THE ONLY TIRE MADE TO FIT THIS RIM OTHER THAN A TOYOTA OPEN COUNTRY WHICH APPARENTLY WAS STANDARD ON THE HYBRID MODEL. WE FOUND THIS TIRE TO BE UNFIT AND UNSAFE FOR A 4,500 LB VEHICLE OF THIS SCALE. THESE TIRES HYDROPLAN IN RAIN FROM THE MOMENT THEY WERE NEW, AND THEY HANDLED TERRIBLY IN ANY AMOUNT OF SNOW, CAUSING THE REAR OF OUR 4WD VEHICLE TO SLIDE SIDEWAYS WHEN STARTING FROM SIMPLE STOPS. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WE HELD OUR BREATH AS WE SLID TOWARD VEHICLES AND PROPERTY WHILE THE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM TRIED IN VAIN TO OVERCOME THE TIRE'S VERY POOR HANDLING CHARACTERISTICS. IF YOU GO TO TIRERACK.COM YOU WILL SEE THAT THIS TIRE IS RATED EXTREMELY POORLY BY MANY MANY OWNERS OF HIGHLANDERS AND OTHER CARS THAT THEY CAME STANDARD ON. WHEN I CONTACTED TOYOTA ABOUT THIS, THEY BALKED AT ME, AND COPPED AN ATTITUDE WHEN THEY ASKED IF I SERIOUSLY THOUGHT TOYOTA WAS GOING TO REPLACE MY TIRES FOR ME. THESE TIRES ARE UNSAFE FOR ANY VEHICLE WHICH WILL TRAVEL IN SNOW OR RAIN. THE FINAL INSULT OF THESE TIRES IS THAT THEY WERE MORE THAN THREE-QUARTERS WORN OUT BY 15,000 MILES. WE MILKED THESE TIRES UNTIL ALMOST 30,000 MILES SINCE I REFUSED TO BUY THE SAME TIRE AGAIN, HOPING SOME OTHER MANUFACTURER WOULD COME ALONG WITH A SIMILAR SIZED TIRE - 245/55-19. THAT NEVER HAPPENED, SO I WENT WITH A 255 WIDTH TIRE AND BROUGHT A WELL RATED HANKOOK. I COULD NOT BE HAPPIER. I AM JUST INCENSED THAT TOYOTA COLLUDED WITH BRIDGESTONE TO INSTALL SUCH TERRIBLY CHEAP AND UNSAFE TIRES ON THOUSANDS OF HIGHLANDERS, STRANDING ALL THOSE OWNERS TO SUFFER THE SAME INSTABILITY ISSUES AS WE DID, WHILE THEY DID NOT WORK WITH ANY OTHER TIRE VENDORS TO SUPPLY THIS DISTINCTIVE TIRE DESIGN. I AM NOT SURE WHO I HOLD IN MORE CONTEMPT - BRIDGESTONE OR TOYOTA. I DO NOT DOUBT THAT YOU COULD RESEARCH VEHICLE CRASHES INVOLVING HIGHLANDERS AND FIND MANY CAUSED BY POOR TRACTION. *TW
NHTSA ODI #10307335
16,144 miles · Feb 7, 2010
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
BRAKE FAILURE ON 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER: I TURNED CAR ON & SHIFTED INTO REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF PARKING SPACE. THERE WAS NO RESISTANCE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. CAR ROLLED BACKWARD & WOULD NOT STOP. I APPLIED EMERGENCY BRAKE AND CAR STOPPED. WHEN E-BRAKE WAS ON I TESTED TO SEE IF THERE WAS PRESSURE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL - THERE WAS N…
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BRAKE FAILURE ON 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER: I TURNED CAR ON & SHIFTED INTO REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF PARKING SPACE. THERE WAS NO RESISTANCE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. CAR ROLLED BACKWARD & WOULD NOT STOP. I APPLIED EMERGENCY BRAKE AND CAR STOPPED. WHEN E-BRAKE WAS ON I TESTED TO SEE IF THERE WAS PRESSURE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL - THERE WAS NONE. AT THIS POINT I PUT CAR INTO PARK AND TURNED OFF ENGINE, WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND RESTARTED ENGINE. STILL NO BRAKE PRESSURE AND SHIFTER WOULD NOT COME OUT OF PARK POSITION. I TURNED THE ENGINE OFF AND THEN ON AGAIN AND RELEASED EMERGENCY BRAKE. AT THIS POINT THE CAR SHIFTED OUT OF PARK AND THERE WAS PRESSURE IN THE BRAKE PEDAL. I DROVE VEHICLE SAFELY TO NEAREST TOYOTA DEALERSHIP (WHERE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED). COMPUTER CHECK INDICATED NO PROBLEM WITH BRAKES. MANUAL/VISUAL CHECK REVEALED A GAP LEAKING BRAKE FLUID BETWEEN THE MASTER CYLINDER AND THE BRAKE BOOSTER , BOTH OF WHICH WERE SUBSEQUENTLY REPLACED BY THE DEALERSHIP. *TW
NHTSA ODI #10307300
Mileage unknown · Feb 6, 2010
Tires
TOYO A20 OPEN COUNTRY TIRES IN 245/55R19 SIZE WEAR PREMATURELY WITH POTENTIAL LOSS OF TRACTION AND CONTROL. DRIVERS UNAWARE OF THE FACT THESE TIRES WEAR OUT IN LESS THAN 20,000 MILES MAY FAIL TO CHECK THEM FOR WEAR SOON ENOUGH. THESE TIRES ARE THE OEM TIRES USED ON THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT MODEL AND PROBABLY SOME OTHER…
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TOYO A20 OPEN COUNTRY TIRES IN 245/55R19 SIZE WEAR PREMATURELY WITH POTENTIAL LOSS OF TRACTION AND CONTROL. DRIVERS UNAWARE OF THE FACT THESE TIRES WEAR OUT IN LESS THAN 20,000 MILES MAY FAIL TO CHECK THEM FOR WEAR SOON ENOUGH. THESE TIRES ARE THE OEM TIRES USED ON THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT MODEL AND PROBABLY SOME OTHER TOYOTA MODELS AND MODEL YEARS AS WELL. THE 2008 VEHICLE OWNERS WILL BE THE FIRST TO REPORT PROBLEMS. THIS BLOG ON CONSUMER REPORTS DETAILS THE PROBLEMS. HTTP://BLOGS.CONSUMERREPORTS.ORG/CARS/2009/04/TOYOTA-HIGHLANDER-HOW-TO-CHOOSE-THE-BEST-REPLACEMENT-TIRE-.HTML TOYOTA DEALERS ARE OFFERING NO COMPENSATION OR REPLACEMENT ASSISTANCE AND THIS SIZE TIRE IS UNIQUE SO THAT ONLY TWO FIRMS OFFER REPLACEMENTS - TOYO AND BRIDGESTONE. THE BRIDGESTONE OEM TIRES IN THIS SIZE MAY HAVE THE SAME WEAR AND TRACTION PROBLEMS. *CN
NHTSA ODI #10306997
20,000 miles · Feb 5, 2010
Power TrainVehicle Speed Control
I AM LEASING TWO TOYOTA VEHICLES ... A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER AND A 2009 TOYOTA CAMRY. DURING DECEMBER 2009 I EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER TRANSMISSION AND SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE BRAKING. DETAILS INCLUDE A TRANSMISSION NOISE RATTLE WHILE DRIVING ON A CALIFORNIA FREEWAY AT ABOUT 60 MPH. THIS TRANSM…
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I AM LEASING TWO TOYOTA VEHICLES ... A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER AND A 2009 TOYOTA CAMRY. DURING DECEMBER 2009 I EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER TRANSMISSION AND SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE BRAKING. DETAILS INCLUDE A TRANSMISSION NOISE RATTLE WHILE DRIVING ON A CALIFORNIA FREEWAY AT ABOUT 60 MPH. THIS TRANSMISSION NOISE CONTINUED FOR 3-4 MINUTES, SOUNDING LOUDER AS IF A PART WAS LOOSE INSIDE OF THE TRANSMISSION. I SHIFTED THE TRANSMISSION ON THE 2008 HIGHLANDER BETWEEN GEARS AND THE NOISE EVENTUALLY STOPPED. THE SECOND COMPLAINT ON THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER OCCURRED ON DECEMBER 5, 2009, WHILE I WAS PARKING THE VEHICLE. AS I APPROACHED THE PARKING PLACE, WITH MY FOOT COVERING THE BRAKE PEDAL, I EXPERIENCED UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION WHILE BRAKING. THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SUDDENLY LURCHED WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD HAVE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE THROUGH A PLATE GLASS WINDOW AT THE BANK IF I DIDN'T APPLY FULL FORCE OF THE BRAKE! I WAS ABLE TO APPLY THE BRAKE FIRMLY ENOUGH TO OVERCOME THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE IN TIME. CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA TOYOTA OF CARLSBAD WAS NOTIFIED ON DECEMBER 9, 2009 IN WRITING REGARDING THESE TWO ISSUES. I HAD PERSONALLY DELIVERED A TWO PAGE DOCUMENT DETAILING BOTH OF THESE COMPLAINTS TO THE TOYOTA OF CARLSBAD SERVICE DEPARTMENT. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY RESPONSE FROM MY COMPLAINT BY TOYOTA OF CARLSBAD OR THE TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10306609
Mileage unknown · Feb 5, 2010
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
TOYOTA 2008 HIGHLANDER-BRAKING SYSTEM HESITATES LIKE THE PRIUS IS DESCRIBED. IT FREEZES UP AND DOESN'T REACT AS QUICKLY AS IT IS PUSHED. THIS IS ONGOING. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10306576
33,000 miles · Feb 3, 2010
Vehicle Speed ControlCrashFire
TL* THE CONTACT'S SISTER OWNED A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT'S SISTER WAS DRIVING AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ACROSS THE INTERSTATE, HIT AN EMBANKMENT AND WAS STRUCK BY SEMI TRUCK. THE VEHICLE BURNED AND THE DRIVER WAS KILLED AS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BUT THERE WAS NO INVESTIGATION INTO THE C…
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TL* THE CONTACT'S SISTER OWNED A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT'S SISTER WAS DRIVING AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ACROSS THE INTERSTATE, HIT AN EMBANKMENT AND WAS STRUCK BY SEMI TRUCK. THE VEHICLE BURNED AND THE DRIVER WAS KILLED AS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BUT THERE WAS NO INVESTIGATION INTO THE CAUSE FOR THE ACCIDENT. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ANY REPRESENTATIVES. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 33,000. UPDATED 03/10/10 *BF UPDATED 07/07/10.*JB UPDATE 9/19/2011*CW
NHTSA ODI #10304297
2,000 miles · Feb 2, 2010
Vehicle Speed ControlCrashInjury
CRASH AND INJURY ON DATED 12/21/2008 WHERE I THOUGHT MY 2008 HIGHLANDER WHICH I BOUGHT A MONTH AGO SKID ON A DRY ROAD IN BROAD DAY LIGHT. SPEED WAS BELOW 20 MPH 1000 FT AWAY FROM MY HOME INSIDE THE NEIGHBERHOOD OF READING, PA 19606. WE WERE GOING TO SEE A MOVIE ON A WEEKEND. ON LYNN AVE MY CAR SKID AND HIT A PARKED TRAILER BEHI…
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CRASH AND INJURY ON DATED 12/21/2008 WHERE I THOUGHT MY 2008 HIGHLANDER WHICH I BOUGHT A MONTH AGO SKID ON A DRY ROAD IN BROAD DAY LIGHT. SPEED WAS BELOW 20 MPH 1000 FT AWAY FROM MY HOME INSIDE THE NEIGHBERHOOD OF READING, PA 19606. WE WERE GOING TO SEE A MOVIE ON A WEEKEND. ON LYNN AVE MY CAR SKID AND HIT A PARKED TRAILER BEHIND. I COULD NOT GET TIME TO PRESS THE BRAKE AT ALL. ALL I THOUGHT IS SNOW/ BLACK ICE. MYSELF AND ATTENDING POLICE OFFICER DID NOT FIND ANY ICE ON THE ROAD. SO, AS USUAL HUMAN ERROR WAS BLAMED. BUT MY 14 YR SON NOTICED THE SKID BEFORE INCIDENT. MY WIFE AND SON BOTH WERE INJURED IN THE CRASH. IN OVER ONE YEAR I COULD NOT GET SATISFIED WITH THE POLICE REPORT WHICH SAID MY SPEEDING WAS TO BLAME. WE ALL KNEW I WAS NOT SPEEDING NEAR MY HOME. THE CONTROL OF MY CAR WENT AWAY FROM MY HAND. THE CAR SPED UP AND BEFORE ANY REALIZATION IT HIT THE BACK OF THE TRAILER. IF YOU SEE THE CAR AND THE WAY IT HIT, ONLY REASON YOU WILL BELIEVE THAT THE DRIVER MUST HAVE BEEN DRUNK. BUT I WAS NOT. NOW I KNOW WHAT REALLY HAPPENED THAT DAY. IT IS THE REASON WHY THE RECALL HAPPENED. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10304032
2,000 miles · Feb 2, 2010
Power Train
2008 LOW MILEAGE TOYOTA HIGHLANDER STICKING ACCELERATOR PEDAL. MY ACCELERATOR GOT STUCK AT FULL THROTTLE. I'M SURE IT WAS NOT THE MATS; I DID NOT HAVE ANY. THE MILEAGE WAS VERY LOW AT THE TIME, UNLIKE WHAT THE RECALL IS ADDRESSING. IT HAS NOT HAPPENED SINCE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10303774
10,000 miles · Dec 10, 2009
SeatsCrash
THE DRIVER'S SEAT DOES NOT RISE UP ENOUGH TO SEE OVER THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR. ALSO, THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR IS LARGE AND CONTINUOUS TO THE DOORPOST PRODUCING A VISUAL BLOCK FROM WINDSHIELD SIDE OF THE DOORPOST TO THE FAR END OF THE OUTSIDE MIRROR - ABOUT 16 INCHES. PROJECT THIS VISUAL BLOCK-OUT ACROSS TO A SIDE-STREET I…
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THE DRIVER'S SEAT DOES NOT RISE UP ENOUGH TO SEE OVER THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR. ALSO, THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR IS LARGE AND CONTINUOUS TO THE DOORPOST PRODUCING A VISUAL BLOCK FROM WINDSHIELD SIDE OF THE DOORPOST TO THE FAR END OF THE OUTSIDE MIRROR - ABOUT 16 INCHES. PROJECT THIS VISUAL BLOCK-OUT ACROSS TO A SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION AND IT BLOCKS THE VIEW OF THE ENTIRE SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION AND THEN SOME WHEN TRAVELING ON A FOUR LANE STREET WITH A MERIDIAN IN THE MIDDLE. THIS IS GROSS HAZARD FOR ME AND A VEHICLE IN THE INTERSECTION AND FOR PEDESTRIANS. I HAD ONE COLLISION WHEN LEAVING A CHURCH PARKING LOT ONTO A TWO LANE RURAL ROAD - TRAVELING ABOUT 10 MPH AND THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS STOPPED IN HIS LANE. OCCURRED IN SPRING OF 2008, ABOUT 5 PM - CLEAR SUNNY DAY. I DID NOT SEE HIS CAR - AND THE COLLISION REPAIR COST FOR HIS VEHICLE WAS $2,500 AND FOR MY REPAIR COST WAS $4,000 +-. ALSO, I HAVE HIT THE LOW CONCRETE DIVIDER WITH MY LEFT FRONT TIRE - LOCATED UNDER THE FREEWAY OVERPASS WHEN TURNING - THIS TURN I HAVE DONE 5 DAYS A WEEK FOR 5 YEARS ON THE WAY TO WORK WITH NO PROBLEM UNTIL DRIVING THIS 2008 HIGHLANDER. ALSO, I HAVE HAD SEVERAL NEAR COLLISIONS WITH UNSEEN VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS. AT NIGHT WITH VEHICLE BEHIND ME THE LIGHT GLARE IN THE OUTSIDE MIRROR IS SUCH THAT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE OVER OR AROUND TO SEE A SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION. SIMILAR PROBLEMS EXIST FOR THE RIGHT OUTSIDE MIRROR. TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM THE MIRROR NEEDS TO BE LOWERED. ALSO, A GAP BETWEEN THE EDGE OF THE MIRROR AND THE DOORPOST WOULD BE A MAJOR GREAT HELP. MY HEIGHT IS 5'-5" NOT TOO SHORT - BY PUSHING HARD WITH MY LEFT FOOT ON THE FLOORBOARD STEP I AM ABLE TO SEE OVER THE OUTSIDE MIRROR AND GAIN A REASONABLE VIEW OF THE SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION - BUT THIS MOVEMENT TAKES AWAY FROM MY CONCENTRATION AND AGILITY TO DRIVE ON. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10295218
8,000 miles · Nov 30, 2009
Vehicle Speed ControlCrashInjury
ON AUGUST 13, 2009 MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LIMITED, 4WD SUV WHEN SHE SUDDENLY LOST CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO A WOODEN TELEPHONE POLE, TOTALING THE CAR. ACCORDING TO HER, THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND SHE COULDN'T STOP THE VEHICLE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10294068
Official recalls
11Jun 2, 2016
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
Oct 22, 2015
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the switch, applying a lubricant if no abnormality is found. If abnormality is found, the PWMS circuit board will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 20, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is C0M.
Nov 19, 2014
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
Apr 9, 2014
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module housed in a spiral cable assembly, which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer, the FFC could become damaged when the steering wheel is turned.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically necessitates deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver.
Remedy: Toyota will notify the Toyota vehicle owners, and General Motors will notify the Pontiac Vibe owners. Toyota sent owners an interim notification letter in May 2014 to advise owners of the recall. Toyota will mail owners a second letter when remedy parts are available. General Motors sent Pontiac Vibe owners an Interim letter on June 20, 2014 notifying them that parts are currently unavailable. General Motors sent notices to the Pontiac Vibe owners on September 15, 2014, that a remedy is available. The recall began on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-762-2737.
Oct 10, 2012
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy: Toyota will notify its owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and apply a special grease that inhibits heat build up or replace any switch damaged by the defect, free of charge. Toyota owners that experience a problem with a switch should not attempt to make repairs, but should contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. General Motors will contact the Pontiac Vibe owners affected by this recall and GM dealers will inspect and repair switches as necessary. Those owners may contact Pontiac Customer Care at 1-800-762-2737.
Apr 21, 2011
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE CONTAINING IMPROVED ROLL RATE SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. TOYOTA INTENDS TO SEND AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS EARLY TO MID-MAY, 2011 WHEN SUFFICIENT PARTS AND REMEDY BECOMES AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Air Bags:side/window
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.
Consequence: INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE CONTAINING IMPROVED ROLL RATE SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. TOYOTA INTENDS TO SEND AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS EARLY TO MID-MAY, 2011 WHEN SUFFICIENT PARTS AND REMEDY BECOMES AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Air Bags
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.
Consequence: INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE CONTAINING IMPROVED ROLL RATE SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. TOYOTA INTENDS TO SEND AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS EARLY TO MID-MAY, 2011 WHEN SUFFICIENT PARTS AND REMEDY BECOMES AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Feb 3, 2010
GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
Feb 3, 2010
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
Jan 27, 2010
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, VENZA AND MATRIX PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT. THIS RECALL IS AN EXPANSION OF A CAMPAIGN OF 3.8 MILLION OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES ANNOUNCED IN 2009 FOR THE SAME ISSUE (SEE 09V-388).
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL MODIFY OR REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR PEDALS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES. FLOOR SURFACE MODIFICATIONS ARE ALSO BEING CONSIDERED AND WILL BE INCLUDED FOR ANY MODEL FOR WHICH IT IS DEEMED APPROPRIATE. INITIALLY, DEALERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO RESHAPE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FOR THE REPAIR. AS REPLACEMENT PARTS WITH THE SAME SHAPE AS THE MODIFIED PEDAL BECOME AVAILABLE, THEY WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE DEALERS FOR THE REPAIR. CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE HAD THE PEDAL RESHAPE REMEDY COMPLETED WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RECEIVE A NEW PEDAL IF THEY DESIRE, AFTER REPLACEMENT PEDALS BECOME AVAILABLE. IN ADDITION, TOYOTA WILL REPLACE ANY TOYOTA ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT IN A SUBJECT VEHICLE WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED MAT, FREE OF CHARGE. FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE THE PREVIOUS DESIGN ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT BUT DO NOT NEED OR WANT THE NEWLY DESIGNED ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT, TOYOTA WILL RECOVER THE PREVIOUS DESIGN ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT AND REIMBURSE ITS PRICE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN MARCH 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Jun 15, 2009
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.
Apr 18, 2008
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 90,189 MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBRID PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A THIRD ROW SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE NON-DRIVER DESIGNATED SEATING POSITIONS (DSP) ON THESE VEHICLES IS EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES THAT HAVE A FEATURE THAT CONVERTS THE RETRACTOR FROM AN EMERGENCY LOCKING RETRACTOR (ELR) TO AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR). THE BELTS CONVERT TO THE ALR MODE AFTER THE WEBBING HAS BEEN FULLY WITHDRAWN FROM THE RETRACTOR. THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED SO THAT AS THE BELT IS RELEASED INTO THE RETRACTOR, THE SYSTEM REMAINS IN THE ALR MODE SO THAT A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM (CRS) CAN BE TIGHTLY SECURED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: HOWEVER, FOR THE TWO THIRD ROW DSP'S ON THESE VEHICLES, THE ALR MODE DEACTIVATES BEFORE THE WEBBING IS FULLY RETRACTED, SO THAT IT WILL NOT LOCK WHEN CERTAIN REAR-FACING CRS'S THAT HAVE A SHORT SEAT BELT ROUTING PATH ARE INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SEAT BELT WEBBING TO SPOOL OUT DURING NORMAL DRIVING MANEUVERS, WHICH COULD AFFECT THE STABILITY OF A CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLED AT THOSE SEATING POSITIONS. AS SUCH, THIS COULD DISCOURAGE THE USE OF A CHILD RESTRAINT AND IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE CHILD MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY PROTECTED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURY.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEWLY DESIGNED SEAT BELT COMPONENT FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT DECEMBER 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
2EA18006 · Steering Column Separation
Opened Nov 16, 2018 · Closed Apr 2, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:column
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence, and the updated manufacturer documentation, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists. The agency reserves right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. A detailed summary of the investigation is attached to this closing resume. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Steering:column
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence, and the updated manufacturer documentation, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists. The agency reserves right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. A detailed summary of the investigation is attached to this closing resume. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Steering
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence, and the updated manufacturer documentation, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists. The agency reserves right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. A detailed summary of the investigation is attached to this closing resume. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
PE18005 · Upper Steering Column Separation
Opened May 4, 2018 · Closed Nov 20, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:column
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Steering:column
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.
Steering
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.
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