The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that two large car manufacturers have recalled vehicles:
Toyota, Lexus
This recall affects more than 420,000 vehicles. Toyota is recalling several different models because the amount of adhesive applied between the outer ring and inner ring in the crankshaft pulley may be inadequate.The outer ring could become misaligned, and may not rotate properly. In some cases, the belt for the power steering pump may become detached from the pulley, which could result in a loss of power steering and a sudden increase in steering effort. Because this would happen without warning, it could increase the risk of a crash.
The NHTSA says that the recall is expected to begin during early January 2012, but if your vehicle is on the list, you may wish to call your dealership sooner to see if your car can be checked out. If there is a problem, the dealer will replace the pulley with a new one at no charge.
The affected vehicles are:
- 2004-2005 Lexus ES 330
- 2004-2005 Lexus RX 330
- 2006 Lexus RX 400H
- 2004 Toyota Avalon
- 2004-2005 Toyota Camry
- 2004-2005 Toyota Camry Solara
- 2004-2005 Toyota Highlander
- 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- 2004-2005 Toyota Sienna
If you have questions, you may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331, or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
General Motors Cadillac
This small recall (affecting just 674 cars) is for model year 2012 Cadillac CTS vehicles manufactured from October 21, 2011, through October 26, 2011. A nut in the brake system may not be torqued to the proper specification, which could result in a loss of ability to brake, which could lead to a “crash without prior warning.”
How do you know if your 2012 Cadillac CTS is affected? The best way to is call your dealership. Ask them to inspect the power vacuum brake boost pushrod retention nut. If necessary, they will adjust the torque. If you have questions, contact GM at 1-800-458-8006, or the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.