The very latest Toyota recall ( there have been others recently) involve about a half million vehicles: the Avalon sedan, Land Cruiser SUVs and a Lexus model. Model years vary, but tend to be from about 2003 to 2007.
The defect involves the steering lock bar, which over time loosens, cracks and breaks. This could occur while the vehicle is in motion, which would result in the steering wheel locking and total loss of control. There have been documented cases of crashes caused by this defect.
Not long ago, several Lexus models were recalled due to faulty engines which cause stalling while the vehicle are in motion. Another Lexus model has a defective gas tank which leaks and may explode even with minor impact.
Unfortunately, these Toyota defects are serious and safety related. However, Toyota is following outdated rules and contacts owners only at their last known address, even though Toyota's data-base includes more up-to-date email addresses and phone numbers. As a result, Toyota saves money, but the lives of Toyota owners and their families are put at risk.
All the while, Toyota refers to these mandatory recalls as its "voluntary safety campaign"!
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