Recall of the Week: Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix Models due to stalling

Toyota is recalling about 1.13 million Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles, 2005-2008 model years, because some engine control modules may have been improperly manufactured and could cause hard shifting or stalling.

On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, a crack may develop at certain solder points or on an electronic component on the ECM’s circuit board. The check engine light may illuminate, harsh shifting could result, or the engine may not start. In limited instances, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.

Toyota said in its recall announcement there are three unconfirmed accidents alleged to be related to this condition, one of which reported a minor injury. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it knew of six crashes, with no injuries, reports ConsumerAffairs.com.

As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced at no charge to the owner.

Beginning in mid-September 2010, Toyota will mail an interim notification to advise owners of this recall and that they’ll receive a future notice when parts become available to complete the repairs.

Information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 800-331-4331, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Saturday 7 a.m. through 4 p.m. PDT.

For details on other recalls, see www.recalls.gov.

Copyright 2010, Rita R. Robison, Consumer Specialist