Toyota recalls earlier this year may have masked an investigation the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration performed on nearly a billion 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Toyota Corolla cars. Power steering issues were up for analysis. Toyota says the possible safety defect isn’t really a defect, as outlined by Auto Blog. Toyota is so certain of this the company thinks it can stay away from one more recall and instead provide free repairs to any customers who ask.
Toyota Matrix power steering prone to drifting or locking
Probably the most amazing aspect of this issue is that Toyota isn’t really saying that frozen or drifting power steering units in Toyota Matrix and Corollas aren’t safety defects. Toyota reportedly has 437 reports on record of the problem (resulting in 11 injuries and 18 crashes), but Toyota considers the issue one of “customer satisfaction,” rather than a defect or safety issue. AutoBlog indicates that Toyota has advised its dealers via a Technical Service Bulletin that tire pressure and alignment should be considered culprits first. If the report’s prescription of checking tire pressure and alignment do not do the trick, then and only then will a new power steering unit be put in.
AutoBlog indicates the GM Matrix clone the Pontiac Vibe may have comparable difficulties with power steering.
No recall means more money in Toyota’s pocket
If Toyota is allowed to go with not recalling the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix or Corolla, they will conserve money and keep away from having to report to regulators. But the NHTSA may have to sign off on the “non-defect” idea first. At this time, they’re nevertheless investigating. Toyota would rather keep away from a PR nightmare. A forced recall could strike down any goodwill Toyota has been able to salvage with the public of late.
Citations
AutoBlog
autoblog.com/2010/07/13/report-toyota-says-corolla-matrix-steering-issue-not-a-defect/
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