Toyota recalls earlier this year may have masked an investigation the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration performed on nearly a billion 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Toyota Corolla cars. A steering issue was the culprit. Toyota says the possible safety defect isn’t a defect, according to Auto Blog. Toyota is so sure of this the business thinks it can keep away from one more recall and instead provide free repairs to any customers who ask.
Toyota Matrix power steering may drift or lock
It is surprising that reports of Toyota Matrix and Corolla power steering units causing drift or locking up do not lead to the problem being proclaimed a safety defect. What would seem like a safety defect to most is a “customer satisfaction” issue according to Toyota PR, despite 437 complaints, 11 injuries and 18 accidents. AutoBlog indicates that Toyota has advised its dealers via a Technical Service Bulletin that tire pressure and alignment should be considered culprits first. If that does not fix the steering issue, then a new unit that has been tuned with a different feel should be inserted into the Matrix or Corolla in question.
AutoBlog indicates the GM Matrix clone the Pontiac Vibe may have comparable issues with power steering.
Without a recall, Toyota saves millions
Not recalling the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Toyota Corolla will conserve the automaker a great deal of money and allow them to forgo checking in with auto regulators. But the NHTSA can have to sign off on the “non-defect” idea first. At the moment, the investigation continues. Toyota would rather keep away from a PR nightmare. A forced recall could strike down any goodwill Toyota has been able to salvage with the public of late.
Citations
AutoBlog
autoblog.com/2010/07/13/report-toyota-says-corolla-matrix-steering-issue-not-a-defect/
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