Toyota Recalls 235,000 Vehicles In U.S.

In two separate actions announced this morning, Toyota has recalled a total of 235,000 vehicles in the U.S. alone (369,000 worldwide) for possible problems with heat damage in two hybrids and a possible defect in engine bolts in multiple Lexus vehicles.

The first recall involves 133,000 Highlander Hybrid (model years 2006-2010) and Lexus RX 400h (2006-2008) vehicles. According to Toyota, transistors within these vehicles’ hybrid system’s inverter assembly “can experience heat damage due to variations in characteristics of the transistors’ parallel circuits.”

Toyota says that in cases where this occurs, a number of dashboard warning lights should illuminate, and the vehicle should enter “limp home mode.” However, there could be limited instances in which the hybrid system will shut down, bringing the car to a stop.

The second recall involves approximately 102,000 Lexus IS 350, IS 350C, and GS 350 vehicles from model years 2006-2011. Toyota says that bolts used to secure the variable valve timing control device can become loose, causing the vehicle to stop while being driven.

The car maker says it will notify affected owners by mail.

Toyota owners can look up recall information about their vehicles at www.toyota.com/recall and www.lexus.com/recall and by calling Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

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