updated: 4 February, 2010 4:51P.M.

There's been a lot of talk about
the recall.Here are the facts for our
customers.

Over the past few days, there has been a lot of speculation about our sticking accelerator pedal recall. Our message to Toyota owners is this - if you are not experiencing any issues with your accelerator pedal, we are confident that your vehicle is safe to drive. If your accelerator pedal becomes harder to depress than normal or slower to return, please contact your dealer without delay.

At Toyota, we take this issue very seriously, but I want to make sure our customers understand that this situation is rare and generally doesn't occur suddenly. In the instances where it does occur, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes.

Here's the latest update on the recall:

1. We're starting to send letters this weekend to owners involved in the recall to schedule
an appointment at their dealer.

2. Dealerships have extended their hours - some of them working 24/7 - to fix your
vehicle as quickly as possible.

3. Trained technicians have begun making repairs.

We've halted production of these models this week to focus fully on fixing this problem for the vehicles that are on the road.

Our entire organization of 172,000 North American employees and dealership personnel has been mobilized. And we're redoubling our quality control efforts across the company.

Ensuring your safety is our highest priority. I will continue to update you with accurate and timely information about the status of the recall in the days and weeks ahead.

Sincerely,

Jim Lentz
President and Chief Operating Officer
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

To get all the latest information about the recalls, please visit:
www.toyota.com

Toyota Customer Experience Center:
1-800-331-4331
Toyota Announces Comprehensive Plan to Fix Accelerator Pedals on Recalled Vehicles and Ensure Customer Safety

Rigorously Tested Reinforced Pedals Will Eliminate the Excess Friction that Caused Sticking  

Toyota Will Make Concerted Effort to Repair Recalled Vehicles as Quickly and Conveniently as Possible


       TORRANCE, Calif., February 1, 2010 - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc., today announced it will begin fixing accelerator pedals in recalled Toyota Division vehicles this week.  Toyota's engineers have developed and rigorously tested a solution that involves reinforcing the pedal assembly in a manner that eliminates the excess friction that has caused the pedals to stick in rare instances.  In addition, Toyota has developed an effective solution for vehicles in production.

       Parts to reinforce the pedals are already being shipped for use by dealers, and dealer training is under way.  Many Toyota dealers will work extended hours to complete the recall campaign as quickly and conveniently as possible, some even staying open 24 hours a day. The company has also taken the unprecedented action of stopping production of affected vehicles for the week of February 1.

        "Nothing is more important to us than the safety and reliability of the vehicles our customers drive," said Jim Lentz, president and Chief Operating Officer, TMS.  "We deeply regret the concern that our recalls have caused for our customers and we are doing everything we can - as fast as we can - to make things right.  Stopping production is never an easy decision, but we are 100% confident it was the right decision.  We know what's causing the sticking accelerator pedals, and we know what we have to do to fix it.  We also know it is most important to fix this problem in the cars on the road."

Lentz added: "We are focused on making this recall as simple and trouble-free as possible, and will work day and night with our dealers to fix recalled vehicles quickly.  We want to demonstrate that our commitment to safety is as high as ever and that our commitment to our customers is unwavering."

       On January 21, Toyota announced its intention to recall approximately 2.3 million select Toyota Division vehicles equipped with a specific pedal assembly and suspended sales of the eight models involved in the recall on January 26.  

Toyota vehicles affected by the recall include:

       Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
       Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
       2009-2010 Matrix
       2005-2010 Avalon
       Certain 2007-2010 Camry
       Certain 2010 Highlander
       2007-2010 Tundra
       2008-2010 Sequoia

No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions.  Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and certain Camry models, including Camry hybrids, all of which remain for sale.

        Further, Camry, RAV4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) that begin with "J" are not affected by the accelerator pedal recall.

       In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes.  The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure.  The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.

Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to this recall are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

How Toyota Will Fix Recalled Vehicles
      
       Toyota has pinpointed the issue that could, on rare occasions, cause accelerator pedals in recalled vehicles to stick in a partially open position.  The issue involves a friction device in the pedal designed to provide the proper "feel" by adding resistance and making the pedal steady and stable.  The device includes a shoe that rubs against an adjoining surface during normal pedal operation.  Due to the materials used, wear and environmental conditions, these surfaces may, over time, begin to stick and release instead of operating smoothly.  In some cases, friction could increase to a point that the pedal is slow to return to the idle position or, in rare cases, the pedal sticks, leaving the throttle partially open.

       Toyota's solution for current owners is both effective and simple.  A precision-cut steel reinforcement bar will be installed into the assembly that will reduce the surface tension between the friction shoe and the adjoining surface.  With this reinforcement in place, the excess friction that can cause the pedal to stick is eliminated.  The company has confirmed the effectiveness of the newly reinforced pedals through rigorous testing on pedal assemblies that had previously shown a tendency to stick.  

Separately from the recall for sticking accelerator pedals, Toyota is in the process of recalling vehicles to address rare instances in which floor mats have trapped the accelerator pedal in certain Toyota and Lexus models (announced November 25, 2009), and is already notifying customers about how it will fix this issue.  In the case of vehicles covered by both recalls, it is Toyota's intention to remedy both at the same time.

Updated: 1 February, 2010 8:31 A.M.


Toyota Recall Update:

There has been lots of good and bad information being circulated in the news about the recall of certain Toyota models. In the coming hours and days I expect several updates and will monitor the situation closely, communicating the information as soon as it becomes available.

As I said previously, here at Toyota of Tri-Cities we are absolutely committed to you and your family's safety. We will stand ready and do what it takes to erase doubt you may have about us or Toyota. I am confident Toyota will make an announcement soon and have the parts available quickly to perform the remedy that has been approved by NHTSA.

I will continue to update as more information is available, I hope tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Dwight Marquart
General Manager

Updated: 31 January, 2010 11:17 A.M.


The latest information will be continuously updated here or you can visit www.toyota.com or call 1-800-331-4331.


Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall and Suspension of Sales:

1. Which models are affected by the recall/stop sale?
Toyota's accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles:
2009-2010 RAV4,
2009-2010 Corolla,
2009-2010 Matrix,
2005-2010 Avalon,
Certain 2007-2010 Camry 
2010 Highlander except hybrid models,
2007-2010 Tundra,
2008-2010 Sequoia

No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids, which will remain for sale.
 
2. What is the condition that has prompted Toyota to take this action?
In rare instances, there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position.
 
3. What is the likelihood that my vehicle will experience this condition?
The condition is rare and does not occur suddenly. It can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position.
 
4. Are you continuing to investigate other models?
Toyota is confident that all models that contain the potentially sticking pedals have been identified.
 
5. Why has Toyota stopped selling the affected vehicles? 
Until Toyota has finalized an appropriate remedy to address the potential for sticking accelerator pedals, a sales suspension is necessary.
 
6. How long will this stop sale be in effect?
New cars covered by this recall will not be delivered until a remedy is finalized and then implemented.
 
7. When do you expect to have a remedy?
We're making every effort to remedy this situation for our customers as quickly as possible.
 
8. What options are you exploring for a remedy?
We are reviewing a number of different options, and we hope to announce a remedy soon.
 
9. What if you experience a sticking accelerator pedal while driving?
Each circumstance may vary, and drivers must use their best judgment, but Toyota recommends taking one of the following actions:
 
If you need to stop immediately, the vehicle can be controlled by stepping on the brake pedal with both feet using firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brake pedal as it will deplete the vacuum utilized for the power brake assist.

Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.

If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost.

If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop button, firmly and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button. 

If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel.
 
10. If I am an owner of one of the affected vehicles, what action do I need to take?
Toyota is working quickly to prepare a correction remedy and will issue owner notifications in the future.  No action is required at this time unless you feel you are experiencing this condition.  If you are experiencing this condition, immediately contact your nearest Toyota Dealer for assistance.
 
11. Toyota stated that this did not affect new/low mileage vehicles, has the situation changed?
The law requires that the entire universe of new vehicles identified in our recall notice must be included in the stop sale.
 
12. Why are you stopping production at your factories?
Production is being stopped temporarily at five North American production facilities to assess and coordinate activities related to the recall announced on January 21.
 
13. What should I do if I still have questions or concerns?
If you still have questions or concerns that have not been addressed here, please contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. The Toyota Customer Experience Center hours are: Mon - Fri, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PST and Sat, 7:00 am - 4:00 pm PST.


On Wednesday, January 27, 2010, Toyota sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration amending Toyota's Defect Information Report of October 5, 2009 regarding the potential risk for floor mat entrapment of accelerator pedals in certain Toyota and Lexus models. Toyota has decided to include certain other models in the campaign. This action is separate from the recall of select Toyota vehicles for sticking accelerator pedals.
 
The specific model names and years associated with the newly-expanded population of subject vehicles for the pedal entrapment recall include:
 
2008-2010 Highlander
2009-2010 Corolla
2009-2010 Venza
2009-2010 Matrix
2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe
 
As of January 26, 2010 the total vehicle population increased by approximately 1,093,000 vehicles.
 
Toyota's remedy plan is to modify or replace the accelerator pedals on the subject vehicles to address the risk of floor mat entrapment, even when an older-design all weather floor mat or other inappropriate mat is improperly attached, or is placed on top of another floor mat.  Floor surface modifications are also being considered and will be included in the remedy plan for any model for which it is deemed appropriate.
 
Initially, dealers will be instructed on how to reshape the accelerator pedal for the repair.  As replacement parts with the same shape as the modified pedal become available, they will be made available to the dealers for the repair. Customers who have had the pedal reshape remedy completed will have the opportunity to receive a new pedal if they desire, after replacement pedals become available.
 
In addition, Toyota will replace any Toyota all-weather floor mat in a subject vehicle with a newly designed mat, free of charge. For those customers who have the previous design all-weather floor mat but do not need or want the newly designed all-weather floor mat, Toyota will recover the previous design all-weather floor mat and reimburse its price.


Here is a little about us!

At Toyota of Tri-Cities we not only sell more new Toyota vehicles than any other South Eastern Washington Toyota Dealer*, we are also a four-time President's Award winning dealership!
 
Toyota President's Award winning dealership - 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008

• This prestigious award honors those Toyota dealers who excel in all facets of their operations - those dealers who have proven themselves to be Toyota's very best! At Toyota of Tri-Cities we are very honored to have received this award for the past four years and look forward to earning this distinguished recognition for many years to come!

Our facility features a Service Customer Loyalty Lounge that serves

• Complimentary Tully's Coffee
• Complimentary Cappuccino
  
• Complimentary Bottled water
  
• Complimentary Orange, Apple, and Grape Fruit Juice
• Complimentary fresh baked Otis Spunkmeyer cookies.
  
• We have a kids play area complete with toys, and a big screen plasma screen TV.
• A customer business center for anyone who needs computer, phone, fax, copy, print, or private desk access.  Do your business, school work, or just play online while having your vehicle serviced!  We have people drive over from places like Moses Lake, Yakima, and Walla Walla just to be pampered!
  
• The newest amenity to our facility is the four massage chairs located in the customer waiting area.

  Toyota Parts and Accessory Boutique 

  Full Service Department

• Toyota Express Maintenance - No Appointment Necessary / Open Saturdays Toyota and ASE Certified Technicians.  We service all makes and models.  We carry oil change filters for Ford, Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Subaru, Chevrolet, Dodge, Suzuki, Nissan, Pontiac, Cadillac, Mercedes, Kia, Jeep, Oldsmobile.  If you drive it, we can service it. 
  
• In addition to a service, we will also wash your vehicle, and if you desire, even vacuum it at no additional charge.

Toyota Rent-A-Car Department
 

We maintain a huge inventory of NEW Toyotas for rent! If you are driving to Seattle, Portland, Spokane or Timbucktu why put miles on your car?  We have weekend specials allowing you to drive a new Toyota for as little as $24 a day!

Have you been thinking of buying a new Toyota? Keep in mind, Toyota Rent-A-Car is a great way to "Try Before You Buy". Ask about our great daily and weekly rates!


Loyalty First Rewards Program


If you are a Loyalty First Reward Card Member, you will receive one point for every dollar spent in our Parts, Service or Toyota Rent-A-Car departments. Points can be redeemed for complimentary services, parts, accessories even a discount on your next vehicle purchase! Points can also be used to purchase gift certificates valid at our participating business network locations. Click the Business Network link at the top of this page to learn more.
 

Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Department


If you are looking for a used vehicle with one of the best warranties on the road, check out Toyota of Tri-Cities selection of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles!

Toyota Certified Used Vehicles all go through a 160-point Quality Assurance Inspection and come backed with a 3-month / 3,000 mile Limited Comprehensive Warranty [1], 7-year / 100,000 mile Limited Powertrain Warranty [2], 7-year / 100,000 mile Roadside Assistance Plan [2] and a Vehicle History Report.

Come in, let us show you why "The Best New Cars, Make The Best Used Cars!"

[1] Warranty from date of Certified Purchase. [2] From original date of first use when sold as new.

If you don't see a particular vehicle, whether new, used or Toyota Certified Used click on CarFinder  and complete the form. We will gladly inform you when a matching car arrives. If you'd like a see a vehicle in person, click on Dealership: Directions for step-by-step driving instructions to our site, or give us a call. We look forward to serving you!

To view our latest newsletter, Click Here

Toyota of Tri-Cities - New and Used Toyota Dealer for Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco

Welcome to the Toyota of Tri-Cities website. Here you'll find all the information you need to make an informed purchase of a new Toyota, or used car, at our Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco area car dealership, serving all of South Central Washington. If you're looking for a Toyota in Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco, stop by Toyota of Tri Cities where we always strive to give you the best price and the best service in the area! Have questions? Call us at 888-241-0605.

Let an expert from our sales team go over all of the features of your favorite Toyota. Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco customers choose Toyota of Tri-Cities because we are committed to leaving you one-hundred percent satisfied with your purchase. With everyday low prices and a huge selection of new and used Toyota cars, save time and money by visiting the Toyota of Tri-Cities car dealership first. We feature all of the most popular new Toyota models, including the Camry, Matrix, Rav4, Tundra and Tacoma. Contact our sales team right now by calling 888-241-0605.

Toyota of Tri-Cities has the used cars in Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco that you have been searching for. With a variety of used cars, used trucks and used SUVs to choose from, and an experienced sales team, we are confident that we can find the vehicle that was built for you. At our Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco used car dealership we feature vehicles by many of today's top automakers, like Toyota, Ford, Scion and Chevrolet. Each used car has been through a detailed inspection by our auto repair mechanics so that we only stock the highest quality vehicles. Have you been unable to locate a particular used car in Kennwick, Richland, and Pasco? Fill out our CarFinder form and we will notify you when a matching car arrives at our dealership.

More About Toyota of Tri Cities - Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco New Toyota and Used Car Dealers

For a low interest car loan in Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco, visit our auto finance department. The Toyota of Tri-Cities financing team is here to assist you through the entire auto loan process. We are the Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco new and used car dealer that will work to find the car finance option that works for you! Start the car loan approval process right now by filling out our secure car loan application online!

We offer professional Toyota service and auto repair at our state-of-the-art service facility. The Toyota of Tri-Cities car repair experts will diagnose your vehicle's problem and make a repair as quickly as possible. Schedule Toyota service or auto repair in Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco by completing our online service appointment form. Toyota of Tri Cities also has a stocked inventory of Toyota auto parts to repair your car, truck or SUV. Our authentic Toyota car parts will keep your vehicle running like new for many more miles to come. You can even order your auto parts online!

Toyota of Tri-Cities thanks our customers for making us such a successful Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco new and used car dealership. We're dedicated to providing the best service possible, and our effort to this end is evident in our everyday work. Learn more about us, and come visit us at 6321 W. Canal Drive, Kennewick, WA.

At Toyota of Tri-Cities we sell more new Toyota vehicles than any other South Eastern Washington dealership.**  When dealing with us, "The WOW starts NOW!"

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*Based on 2009 inventory lists within a 100 mile radius.
**Based on 2009 New Toyota vehicle registrations.