Toyota recalls 3.8 million cars

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in America has issued a statement advising owners of certain Toyota and Lexus models produced between 2004 and 2009 to take any removable floor mats out of the driver footwell pending a full investigation.

Toyota has admitted that it is looking into the possibility of certain floor mats jamming the accelerator pedal down, with very serious consequences if the driver does not react correctly.

For now, the NHTSA and Toyota are asking owners to remove the mats pending a full recall and investigation. It is thought that up to 3.8 million cars could be affected, making this recall the largest the Japanese company has ever undertaken.

Instructions on what to do if the accelerator pedal is stuck down are provided, including first of all attempting to remove the floor mat. If that fails, drivers are urged to try to put the car into neutral and bring the car to a controlled stop. If necessary, the engine should be switched off and if all else fails the brakes must be applied with the driver's full strength.

The following US market models are affected and will form part of the Toyota recall:

- 2007 - 2010 Toyota Camry
- 2005 - 2010 Toyota Avalon
- 2004 - 2009 Toyota Prius
- 2005 - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
- 2007 - 2010 Toyota Tundra
- 2007 - 2010 Lexus ES350
- 2006 - 2010 Lexus IS250 and IS350

This recall does not affect any cars sold in Europe.

Shane O' Donoghue