Toyota recently announced a recall of nearly 100,000 Tundra pickups and approximately 3,500 Lexus luxury SUVs due to a potential issue that could cause engine power loss while driving. Initially, the company stated that it was working on finding a solution to the problem. However, it has now determined that the best course of action is to replace the entire engine in each of the 103,500 affected vehicles.
The recall involves Toyota Tundras and Lexus LX 600s from the 2022 and 2023 model years. It’s important to note that only the regular gasoline-powered versions, not the hybrids, are affected by this recall. The Tundra is available in both gas-only and “iForce Max” hybrid versions.
The issue stems from debris that may have been left inside the engine during the manufacturing process. This debris can result in banging or popping noises, an engine that doesn’t run smoothly, and even stalling while driving. To address the problem, Toyota dealers will replace the engines in these vehicles at no cost to the owners. Unfortunately, the company did not disclose the financial impact of replacing the engines on such a large scale.
While it may be uncommon, it’s not unprecedented for an automobile manufacturer to replace engines as part of a recall. In 2015, Hyundai recalled 470,000 Sonata models for a similar issue and acknowledged that engine replacement might be necessary in some cases. Similarly, Honda recalled 250,000 vehicles last year due to a problem that could potentially require engine replacement.
This recent recall by Toyota highlights the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers. By taking swift action and addressing the root cause of the problem, Toyota aims to maintain its reputation for reliability and dependability. Owners of the affected vehicles can have peace of mind knowing that the company is standing behind its products and taking the necessary steps to rectify the issue.
In conclusion, Toyota’s decision to replace the engines in the recalled Tundra pickups and Lexus luxury SUVs demonstrates its dedication to customer safety. While engine replacements in recalls are relatively rare, they are occasionally necessary to resolve complex issues. Toyota’s proactive approach in addressing this problem underscores its commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles that meet the expectations of its customers.
