During the height of the Toyota recalls earlier this year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigated nearly three-quarters of a billion 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Corolla cars. Steering was the question. Toyota says the possible safety defect isn’t a defect, as outlined by Auto Blog. Toyota wants to handle the matter by fixing the issue for free, but only if individuals complain.
Toyota Matrix power steering may drift or lock
The most amazing aspect of this issue is that Toyota isn’t saying that frozen or drifting power steering units in Toyota Matrix and Corollas aren’t safety defects. Toyota reportedly has 437 reports on record of the problem (resulting in 11 injuries and 18 crashes), but Toyota considers the issue one of “customer satisfaction,” rather than a defect or safety issue. AutoBlog indicates that Toyota has advised its dealers via a Technical Service Bulletin that tire pressure and alignment should be considered culprits first. If the report’s prescription of checking tire pressure and alignment don’t do the trick, then and only then will a new power steering unit be put in.
AutoBlog indicates that the GM Matrix clone the Pontiac Vibe may have comparable issues with power steering.
No recall means more money in Toyota’s pocket
Toyota might be allowed to forego recalling the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Corolla, which would save them an excellent deal of capital and keep them out of the regulator’s office. However, the NHTSA may have to agree with Toyota’s assessment of the “non-defect”. Currently, the investigation continues. Toyota has had enough PR trouble with their previous recalls. A forced recall could strike down any goodwill Toyota has been able to salvage with the public of late.
More details about this topic at these websites
AutoBlog
autoblog.com/2010/07/13/report-toyota-says-corolla-matrix-steering-issue-not-a-defect/
