Toyota has announced the recall of approximately 102,000 vehicles, including the Toyota Tundra pickups and Lexus LX SUVs from the 2022 and 2023 model years.
The recall, which addresses a critical issue of potential engine failure, has been prompted by the discovery of debris left in the engine during the manufacturing process.
The issue at hand
The recall specifically targets vehicles equipped with the V35A engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 that varies in power output across the Tundra and LX lineups. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this machining debris can adhere to the crankshaft main bearings, leading to severe consequences. If the debris remains, it can cause the bearings to fail, resulting in engine knocking, rough running, an inability to start, or a complete loss of power while driving.
Risk and impact
“Losing power at higher speeds can significantly increase the risk of a crash,” the NHTSA documents highlight. This safety concern has spurred Toyota into action, aiming to mitigate potential risks for drivers. It’s important to note that the recall only affects purely gas-powered models, not the hybrid powertrains.
Hybrid Models exempt
The Tundra’s hybrid model, which also uses the V35A V-6 engine, is not included in this recall. The NHTSA reassures that even if a hybrid vehicle experiences engine failure, it retains “some motive power for limited distances,” and drivers will receive both audio and visual warnings.
Toyota’s response
Toyota has stated it is diligently working on a solution to rectify the issue. The company plans to notify affected vehicle owners by late July. “All repairs will be provided at no cost under warranty,” a Toyota spokesperson confirmed. In the interim, owners can check the NHTSA recalls website to determine if their vehicle is affected.
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