PRODUCT RECALL: Toyota Apologizes to Customers over Defective Cars

February 1, 2010

Washington - Toyota officials have released a statement on Monday apologizing to customers over the gas pedal problem which may cause unintended acceleration, adding that the company will start repairing the flawed design in the next few days.

In a press release, the company said it will attach a piece of steel metal, about 5.8 centimeters in length, to fix the defective gas pedal which led to the global recall that covers 5.3 million vehicles in US, China, and Europe.

The car maker giant said the move is expected to regain the trust of its customers and car dealers who are worried about the safety of their Toyota cars.

The repairs will include attaching a steel behind the top of the gas pedal that will reduce the friction between two pieces of the accelerator mechanism that may cause the pedal to be stuck.

To further ensure the safety of its customers, Toyota said it will prioritize “cars that were already bought by customers over those on the lot.”

The company added that it will notify customers through mail to set up appointments with their dealers to fix the gas pedal problem.

In response to Toyota’s move, some experts said the company may be rushing to fix the problem “without even looking at the electronics of the pedal and other potential flaws.”

Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said they support Toyota’s move to address the problem.

Last week, the government has applauded Toyota for immediately suspending its car productions and for announcing a massive recall that covers more than two-thirds of the company’s global sale last year.