Handling the Recent Toyota Prius Recall

February 12, 2014 – Toyota announced a global recall of all 2010 to 2014 Prius models due to a potentially dangerous software glitch.

The problem lies with the motor/generator control ECU and hybrid control ECU software in the Prius models. Software glitches could cause overheating, which in turn can cause the car to enter failsafe mode. In failsafe mode, the car’s power is reduced so the driver can pull over, but can do little more.

Toyota explains: “In rare circumstances, the hybrid system might shut down while the vehicle is being driven, resulting in the loss of power and the vehicle coming to a stop.”

No accidents or injuries have been reported so far as the result of this defect, but because it’s potentially dangerous, Toyota issued this voluntary recall of over 700,000 Prius model vehicles.

Handling the Prius Recall

The government mandates that the company must take steps to locate and notify the owners, including via a notification letter. Toyota explains: “Owners will be notified by first class mail when the software updates are available at their dealers.”

If you have a 2010 to 2014 Prius, but have still not been contacted within a reasonable amount of time, there may simply a communication delay or error; you are still eligible for the software update. Contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 to check the status of the software update availability.

The software update is free of charge. To learn more about the Prius recall, you can: 

• contact Toyota at the number above;
• visit Toyota.com/recall; or
• check the latest recall information on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s site. 

 

When Defective Auto Parts Cause Injury

When consumers are injured due to defective parts or cars, they may be able to file a negligence claim for financial restitution. Thousands of people are injured every year because of auto and tire defects. Toyota has a bad reputation for recalls, too. They rank near the top for the most auto recalls, second only to Chrysler, reports the Los Angeles Times. They recalled a massive 5.3 million vehicles last year.

For questions, concerns, or a free legal consultation if you’ve been injured, contact Chalik & Chalik today at 855-529-0269.