Toyota Recalls Prius Over Brake Problems

Toyota confirmed this morning that they would initiate a volunteer recall of the 2010 Toyota Prius and 2010 Lexus HS 250h in order to stem concerns about braking problems with those vehicles.

The company said that the recall would include a software update for the braking system on roughly 130,000 Prius models and 15,000 models. The Prius is the most popular hybrid model sold in America, while the HS 250h is a variant of the Prius sold under Toyota's premium Lexus line. Only Prius and HS 250 h models made after May 2009 are included in the recall; first- and second-generation Prius models are not included in the recall.

Owners of the involved 2010 Prius vehicles will be notified by mail. Toyota recommends following their recall website at http://www.toyota.com/recall or contact 1 877 MESSALAW for more information.

Toyota Recalls 95,700 Vehicles over Cold Weather Braking Concern

Toyota has begun working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall 95,700 vehicles with a brake issue that could lead to poor stopping at low temperatures. The recall involves 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla and Matrix models and 2008-2009 Scion xD models with the 1.8-liter engine, and only customers in 19 cold weather states are eligible for the recall.

Toyota says the problem may arise when condensed moisture from the positive crankcase ventilation port seeps into the brake system vacuum port and freezes. As ice accumulates, the brake vacuum port could plug up and "power assist to the brakes would gradually decrease and lead to lengthened vehicle stopping distances."

Owners of affected vehicles will soon receive a notice from Toyota, followed by instructions to take the vehicle to a Toyota dealership for no-cost repairs. Dealer technicians will install a newly designed intake air connector that relocates the brake system vacuum port, a one-hour procedure.

No other Lexus, Toyota, or Scion vehicles are involved. Customers with questions or concerns should contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or the Scion Customer Experience at 1-866-70SCION(707-2466).