Trapped Accelerator Pedals Come to Haunt Toyota and Lexus Again, 2.12 Million Vehicles Recalled in the USA

The Toyota Group may be off the hook over suspicions of unwanted sudden acceleration caused by software-driven throttles after the findings of the NHTSA-NASA study, but the Japanese automaker is once again making headlines over trapped accelerator pedals. Today, Toyota announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 2.12 million vehicles in the United States to address accelerator pedals that could become entrapped in floor mats or jammed in carpeting.

More specifically, Toyota is recalling approximately 20,000 Lexus GS 300 and GS 350 All-Wheel Drive vehicles from the 2006-2007 model years to modify the shape of the plastic pad embedded in the driver’s side floor carpet. According to the company, if the floor carpet is not properly replaced in the correct position after a service operation, it is possible that the plastic pad embedded into the floor carpet may jam against the accelerator pedal and keep it from returning to the idle position.

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Toyota Launches Certified Used Vehicle Program for Hybrid Models

In an attempt to draw the attention of buyers searching for used hybrids, Toyota USA has created a new used-vehicle certification program for the brand's hybrid models like the Prius, Camry and Highlander. On top of Toyota Certified's 160-point quality assurance inspection, the extras for the hybrid program include 14 additional points that include the hybrid vehicle electronic control unit and the hybrid vehicle battery.

Furthermore, in addition to the usual warranties, the Japanese automaker said that the certified used hybrids come with a new-vehicle factory hybrid battery warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles - and more in certain states.