During the height of the Toyota recalls earlier this year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigated nearly three-quarters of a billion 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix and Corolla cars. Power steering issues were up for analysis. According to Auto Blog, the Detroit Free Press heard from Toyota that what appeared to be a safety defect is not, in fact. Toyota is so certain of this that the business thinks it can stay away from one more recall and instead provide free repairs to any customers who ask.
Toyota Matrix power steering prone to drifting or locking
It is surprising that reports of Toyota Matrix and Corolla power steering units causing drift or locking up don’t lead to the problem being proclaimed a safety defect. Toyota reportedly has 437 reports on record of the problem (resulting in 11 injuries and 18 crashes), but Toyota considers the issue one of “customer satisfaction,” instead of a defect or safety issue. AutoBlog indicates that Toyota simply released a Technical Service Bulletin that pointed to tire pressure and alignment troubles 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 similar issues with power steering.
Bottom line – Toyota could save money
If Toyota is allowed to go with not recalling the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Matrix or Corolla, they’ll save money and keep away from having to report to regulators. Yet none of that will happen if the NHTSA fails to agree with Toyota’s assessment of the steering issue. At this time, they’re nevertheless investigating. Toyota has had enough PR trouble with their previous recalls. 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/
