Which models are affected by the recall in the UK?
The following models built during the listed dates:
Aygo automatics only (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009),
iQ (Nov 2008 – Nov 2009),
Yaris (Nov 2005 – Sep 2009),
Auris (Oct 2006 – 5 Jan 2010),
Corolla (Oct 2006 – Dec 2009),
Verso (Feb 2009 – 5 Jan 2010),
Avensis (Nov 2008 – Dec 2009).
Toyota says not all the 180,000 cars in this date range will be recalled, only those it identifies as at risk. A car bought after these dates may be affected if stored some time prior to delivery.
What exactly is the problem?
The company has said it is entirely mechanical and is not linked to the computer/electronic controls. Friction in the pedal mechanism is causing the accelerator pedal to remain partially open, or to close slowly, causing the car to accelerate, rather than slowing down. Toyota says 26 cases have so far been reported across Europe.
The problem is more likely if the mechanism has become worn, combined with “certain operating and environmental conditions” – thought to be the cold and wet. Both diesel and petrol cars are affected.
Is my Toyota affected?
Not all vehicles produced within the published date ranges will be subject to the recall. Once Toyota has identified which, it will apply to the DVLA to obtain the name and address of the owners. Toyota will then write to each one, highlighting the next steps.
This first letter goes out next week. If your car is secondhand, you will be contacted, as DVLA knows which cars are affected. Alternatively, you can call the Toyota hotline – 0800 1388 744.
Is my car safe until seen by the dealer?
Toyota says yes, as the condition is rare and “generally does not occur suddenly”; if you have not had a fault so far, it is very unlikely you will. If the accelerator pedal is hard to depress, slow to return, or unsmooth during operation, these are the symptoms.
Does Toyota have a fix?
Yes. A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the accelerator pedal assembly. If will take the local dealer 30 minutes. First repairs are due to start on 10 February, older cars first.
Is this covered by my warranty?
Toyota will cover all repair costs. It said it expects the total cost of worldwide recalls to be £1.26bn.
What should I do if I experience a sticking accelerator while driving?
Put the vehicle in neutral, use the brakes to make a controlled stop, and turn off the engine. If you are unable to get in neutral, turn the engine off. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power steering will be lost. Do not take the key out, as this will apply the steering lock. If the vehicle has an engine start/stop button, firmly push the button – do not tap it. Do not pump the brake pedal as it will make braking more difficult.
Has this affected any other make?
Yes. A total of 6,667 Citroen C1s and Peugeot 107s share some components with the Toyota Aygo. It does not affect a manual gearbox car. Peugeot said it was working with Toyota to identify any affected cars, and owners will be contacted in due course.
