Toyota Suspends Sales of 8 Models over Gas Pedal Question

By Jim Greene

Published on January 27, 2010

Toyota Motor Corp. is suspending sales and production of eight models pending resolution of issues related to the possibility that their gas pedals may jam. The action comes less than a week after the company recalled about 2.3 million vehicles to check on their gas pedals.

Dealers have been told to immediately suspend sales of some models of the Camry, Corolla, RAV4, and Avalon, spanning model years from 2005 to 2010. Current production of the affected models at eight North American plants will suspended Monday.

Company Says Move Not Related to November Recall

The company said its latest move was not related to a November recall of 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles over concerns about unintended acceleration. That recall came after several reported incidents, capped by the Aug. 28 death of an off-duty California Highway Patrol officer and three of his family members in a fiery car crash near San Diego. A man calling 911 from the doomed vehicle said it was accelerating out of control and the brakes were not responding.

No Lexus models are involved in the sales and production halt.

Floor Mats Suspected in Acceleration Problem

Speculation in the November recall included the possibility of interference with the gas pedal by a floor mat that was not original equipment, but often substituted in the vehicles. Owners were advised to immediately remove any floor mats that were not original equipment, pending further study.

There was no mention of floor mats in the more recent recall, only the possibility of what the company called a rare mechanical issue. Toyota said owners will be contacted with information and instructions when the problem is resolved.

If you or someone you know has been injured or suffered property damage as a result of a gas pedal or unintended acceleration problem with a Toyota or Lexus, contact an experienced product liability/personal injury attorney right away. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, repair bills, or loss of income.

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