A big recall has just announced by Toyota Motor Corporation with more than 126.000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the United States. The problem seems to be an engine issue that could eventually cause collisions. The V35A motor, which can be found in vehicles like the Toyota Tundra and the SUV Lexus LX and Lexus GX, is connected to this malfunction.
According to the information published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the risks of en engine stoping while the car is rolling, increases the possibility of losing power and suffering a crash.
What’s causing the problem?
The issue comes from a mistake that happened during the engine’s production. “debris from the manufacturing process may contaminate the engine and cause the main bearings to fail, potentially causing the engine to stall.” Toyota clarified.
To put it simply, tiny pieces of material that were left over after the engine was machined might not have been completely removed. It’s possible that this “engine machining debris” ended up in the engine assembly or stayed inside the engine. The main bearings, which are essential components that support the smooth operation of the engine’s moving parts, could ultimately be harmed by this.
The engine could overheat, producing noise, losing power, or even abruptly stop operating if those bearings fail. And if this happens “there is an increased risk of crash,” according to Toyota. Losing drive power in traffic can be hazardous even if the steering and brakes are still functional, particularly in crowded areas or at higher speeds.
This new recall is an extension of the one that was previously announced in May of last year (24V381). The 102,092 vehicles covered by that one already included the 2022–2023 Lexus LX and 2022–2023 Toyota Tundra. Now, more recent models are being included.
Which vehicles are included?
According to Toyota, a total of 126,691 vehicles are being recalled:
- 2022–2024 Toyota Tundra – 113,079 vehicles
- 2022–2024 Lexus LX – 9,895 vehicles
- 2024 Lexus GX – 3,717 vehicles
The V35A engine is installed in each of these cars. Toyota claims that when debris from the machining process was not completely removed, the problem “occurred at some point during production,” when debris from the machining process was not fully cleared, which “may have contaminated the engine assembly.”
The recall, which is registered with the NHTSA under recall number 25V767000, is targeted at the United States market. Lexus’ recall numbers are 25LB07 and 25LA07, while Toyota’s are 25TB14 and 25TA14. Owners and dealers can use these codes to identify the exact campaign and figure out if a their car is affected.
USA Today contacted Toyota and Lexus to inquire about any crashes or injuries connected to this problem. But instead of focusing on verified incidents, the recall notice itself highlights the possible risk.
What happens next for owners?
The company says it is “working on finding a solution for the issue.” Then, after the solution is put into place, they will offer free repairs for the affected vehicles. Owners must take their cars to an authorized dealer after being notified, but they will not be responsible for the cost of the repair.
Toyota plans to notify dealers on November 6. After the fix has been tested and approved, owners will be informed. Then the company expects to “notify owners about a solution between Dec. 22 and Jan. 5.”
At this moment, the notice is not asking owners to stop driving their vehicles. However, if you hear strange engine noises, see warning lights, or experience a power outage: that’s the sign to get in touch with a dealer right away.
Toyota’s customer service department is available at 1-800-331-4331 for more information. And Lexus customer service offers assistance as well.