All About Japan Autos

Daily Auto News

Toyota has issued a recall notice for about 98,000 Corolla sedans and, Toyota Matrix and Scion xD hatchbacks from models years 2009 and 2010, in order to correct a defect that may lead to poor braking performance in cold weather.

The recall has not yet been announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but Toyota has issued a press release announcing the recall program. The automaker explains, “On certain 2009 and 2010 model year Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, and 2008 and 2009 Scion xD vehicles all equipped with 1.8 liter engines, Toyota has determined that if the vehicle is operated in extremely low ambient temperatures, there is a possibility that condensed moisture…may seep into the brake system vacuum port and freeze. Should this condition continue, ice may slowly accumulate at the brake system vacuum port and in the extreme case, ultimately plug the vacuum port. As a result of the accumulation of ice, power assist to the brakes would gradually decrease and lead to lengthened vehicle stopping distances.”

Toyota dealers will install a redesigned intake air connector, which should correct the problem, free of charge. The procedure takes about one hour.

Because the problem occurs only at extremely low temperatures, the recall is limited to nineteen cold-weather states. They are: Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

That has some in the automotive press concerned. Autoblog points out, “It’s not like a Corolla or Matrix can’t cross state lines during winter, and nobody deserves to be met with brakesicles when they try to stop.”

Corolla, Matrix and xD owners in those states should expect to receive a recall notice from their dealer, though the automaker has not announced a schedule for the notices. Those who wish to make their own repair arrangements may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

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