Another Toyota recall: 1.3m Matrix and Corolla models

If you moved to Earth over the past year, you might think Toyota is a company that trades in recalls.

The company has had a rough year, with a spate of recalls across the globe affecting several different Toyota models including the RAV4, Avalon, Camry, Sequoia and Tundra. Previous problems included faulty steering columns and “sticky” accelerators, and today’s recall involves “improperly manufactured” Engine Control Modules (ECMs) that could cause a car’s engine to seize while the car is in operation:

On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, there is a possibility that a crack may develop at certain solder points or on the electronic component used to protect circuits against excessive voltage (varistor), on the ECM’s circuit board. In most cases, if a crack occurs at certain solder points or on certain varistors, the check engine may illuminate, harsh shifting could result, or the engine may not start. In limited instances, if cracking occurs on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.

The recall affects Toyota Matrix and Toyota Corolla models between 2005-2008. According to the news release, three incidents and one minor injury may be linked to the defect. Of the recall, Toyota chief quality officer for North America Steve St. Angelo says:

“This recall is an example of our commitment to standing by our products and being responsive to our customers. Our goal is to help ensure that Toyota drivers are completely confident in the safety and reliability of their vehicles.”

Toyota’s full press release can be found here.