Lexus Recall: Another Embedded Nightmare
Toyota is trying desperately to recover from a vicious beating brought upon by "sudden unintended acceleration" problems of still unknown origins, a massive associated recall, attendant bad press and sales figures, and, adding insult to injury, a record $16.4 million fine for dragging its corporate heels regarding the recall. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Toyota knew about the acceleration problem in late September but didn't issue the recall until late January, in violation of federal law.
However, March sales figures seemed to indicate that things were turning around for the beleaguered car maker.
But no: a week ago Consumer Reports issued a rare "don't buy" warning against Toyota's Lexus brand GX 460 SUVs due to rollover concerns. Yesterday Toyota said it was — quick like a bunny — recalling all 9,400 of the 2010 Lexus GX 460s that became available in late December. Oh, and it was also going to pay the $16.4 million fine without complaint like a good corporate citizen.
What are they going to do about the rollover problem? Updating software in the Vehicle Stability Control system - yet another embedded nightmare. Toyota says it is also testing all its other SUVs for similar issues.
When it rains, it pours.
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