December 14, 2010-According to reports Monday Toyota issued a recall of 94,000 of its Sienna minivans. Torrance based Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. announced the recall, if for the brake light system. According to Toyota the proximity of the stop lamp switch bracket to the parking brake pedal when the brakes are fully applied. The stop lamp switch bracket in some instances can become deformed by the driver’s foot when using the parking brake.
This deformation could cause the brake lights to remain on, or in certain instances could cause the brake to become partially engaged due to contact from the bracket. This could result in brake drag, brake noise, brake vibration and the brake warning indicator light. Continuing to drive the vehicle could cause the brakes to be less effective.
According to Toyota they are not aware of any accidents or injuries due to this issue and no other model braking systems are affected. Toyota will be sending owners an interim notification in mid-January to advice of the recall and with instructions on what should be done if this issue is experienced. Late February a second notice will be sent to owners when the parts are available to fix the brake light system issue. They also plan to keep Sienna owners updated on their website about the issue and February repair dates.
If you were injured as the result of a defective car, contact a motor vehicle recall attorney at 888.400.9721.