WASHINGTON (Aug. 26, 2010) — Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling nearly 1.3 million Toyota Corollas and Matrixes, model years 2005-2008, because of possible problems with the engine.
Corollas and Matrixes from those model years that are equipped with 1ZZ-FE engines and two-wheel drive may develop cracks in their engine control modules (ECMs) at certain solder points or their circuit boards, Toyota told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These cracks could cause harsh shifting in the vehicles, and in some cases the vehicles may not start or even stall while on the road.
Toyota will inspect the production numbers on the ECMs in those vehicles, and replace the ECMs free of charge if necessary, NHTSA said. Toyota will start sending out interim recall notices in mid-September, informing owners they will be notified when the car maker has sufficient parts to allow ECM replacement.
With this recall, the number of vehicles Toyota has recalled this year now exceeds 10 million. Faulty accelerators, floor mats and brakes were the reasons Toyota gave for the previous recalls.