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Toyota and Honda Recall Vehicles to Fix Brake Problem

By Paul Napoli

October 21, 2010

Toyota Motor Sales, USA Inc. announced today that it is recalling approximately 740,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to a potential brake fluid leak caused by wear of a rubber seal. Shortly afterward, American Honda Motor Co. Inc. said it too was recalling vehicles for the same defect.

According to the Toyota release, if during regular vehicle maintenance, the consumer uses a brake fluid containing none or less polymers than genuine Toyota brake fluid, a seal in the master cylinder can become dry and leak. The polymers act as a lubricant for the rubber seal. If the seal becomes affected, brake fluid could leak. This condition will cause the illumination of the brake warning lamp.

'If the brake warning lamp has illuminated and the vehicle continues to be operated without refilling the master cylinder brake fluid reservoir, the driver will begin to notice a spongy or soft brake pedal feel and braking performance may gradually decline,' Toyota said.

Models affected by the Toyota recall:

• Avalon – 2005 through 2006
• Highlander (non Hybrid) – 2004 through 2006
• Lexus RX330 – 2004 through 2006
• Lexus GS300, IS250 and IS350 – 2006

Toyota and Lexus dealers will remedy the problem by replacing the brake master cylinder cup with a newly designed one at no charge to the vehicle owners. Owners of these vehicles should expect a letter from Toyota in early November.

CNN reports that Honda is preparing to notify the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the company is recalling vehicles for the same risk of brake fluid leak from a deteriorating seal. Honda has not released the number of vehicles affected by this problem.

Models affected by the Honda recall:

• Acura RL – 2005 through 2007
• Odyssey – 2005 through 2007

Toyota and Honda get the affected brake parts from the same supplier, reports The Los Angeles Times.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Paul Napoli

Full post as published by New York City Personal Injury Lawyer on October 21, 2010 (boomark / email).