In early June, Toyota issued a recall for nearly 100,000 Tundra pickups and 3,500 Lexus luxury SUVs due to an issue that could cause their engines to lose power while driving. The company stated that it was in the process of finding a solution to the problem. It has now been revealed that the solution to the issue is to replace the entire engine in each of the affected vehicles, totaling around 103,500 trucks and SUVs. These vehicles include 2022 and 2023 model year Toyota Tundras and Lexus LX 600s. The recall only affects regular gasoline-powered versions, not hybrids.
A manufacturing issue has led to debris being left inside the engines of some of these vehicles, causing various symptoms such as banging or popping noises, rough engine performance, and potential stalling while driving. To address this issue, Toyota dealers will replace the engines in the affected vehicles at no cost to the owners. The company has not disclosed the total cost of replacing the engines on all the recalled vehicles.
While it is relatively uncommon for an auto manufacturer to have to replace engines in a recall, it is not unprecedented. In 2015, Hyundai recalled 470,000 Sonata models for a similar issue that could result in engine replacements for some of the affected cars. Similarly, last year, Honda recalled 250,000 vehicles for a problem that could also potentially necessitate engine replacements. This emphasizes the importance of automakers quickly addressing and remedying any issues that could compromise the safety and performance of their vehicles.
The decision to replace the engines in the recalled Toyota Tundra pickups and Lexus luxury SUVs underscores the seriousness of the issue and Toyota’s commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of its vehicles. Despite the potential inconvenience for owners, having the engines replaced free of charge demonstrates Toyota’s determination to rectify the problem swiftly and effectively. It also highlights the importance of proactive quality control measures in the automotive industry to prevent such issues from occurring in the first place.
Owners of the affected vehicles are encouraged to contact their local Toyota dealer to schedule an appointment for the engine replacement. Toyota has assured customers that the safety and performance of the vehicles will be restored following the engine replacement procedure. This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and prompt action in addressing potential safety concerns in the automotive industry, ultimately ensuring the well-being of both drivers and passengers on the road. By addressing the problem head-on and taking decisive action, Toyota is upholding its reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction in the face of challenges.
