Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Toyota has issued a recall for around 102,000 vehicles due to potential engine failure. This recall involves the 2022 and 2023 model years of the Toyota Tundra and Lexus LX, specifically targeting the gasoline-powered versions and excluding hybrid models.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the engine issue stems from engine debris that could lead to a loss of engine power.
The recall focuses on vehicles equipped with the V35A engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6, available in various power configurations across the Tundra and LX ranges. The NHTSA documents indicate that engine machining debris might not have been adequately removed during production.
If you have experienced LX or Tundra engine problems and have had related repairs performed on your vehicle, you could qualify for a refund or cash compensation through the Lemon Law in California.
Affected Vehicle | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
2022 Toyota Tundra | $84,363 |
2023 Toyota Tundra | $93,805 |
2022 Lexus LX600 | $179,165 |
2023 Lexus LX600 | $186,296 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
How Do I Know If My Tundra or Lx600 is Included?
In the impacted vehicles, debris in the engine can adhere to the crankshaft main bearings, causing serious engine problems. If the vehicle continues to operate under higher loads over time, these bearings can fail, leading to several potential engine-related symptoms such as:
- Engine knocking
- Rough engine operation
- Inability to start
- Loss of power
The recall specifically affects vehicles equipped with a certain configuration of the V35A engine, manufactured during a specified period at certain engine plants. V35A engines produced after this period were made with improved processes to better remove machining debris. Other Toyota and Lexus models sold in the U.S. either do not use this engine or have a different V35A configuration with different pressure on the main bearings.
The Toyota Tundra engine recall does not include Toyota Tundra hybrid models equipped with a V35A V-6 engine. In case of engine failure in a hybrid vehicle, it will retain limited motive power and alert the driver with audio and visual warnings.
What Are the Dangers Associated with this Issue?
Losing engine power at higher speeds significantly increases the risk of a crash. This sudden loss of power can compromise the driver’s ability to maintain control of the vehicle, especially in high-speed situations or heavy traffic, thereby posing a serious safety hazard.
The potential dangers associated with this issue are considerable. Here are some specific risks:
- Loss of Vehicle Control: A sudden loss of power can make it difficult for the driver to steer or maneuver the vehicle effectively, especially during high-speed driving. This can result in an inability to avoid obstacles or respond to changes in traffic conditions.
- Increased Stopping Distance: When a vehicle loses power, the stopping distance can increase as the engine’s braking assistance may be compromised. This can be particularly dangerous in emergency braking situations, where every second counts.
- Traffic Hazards: A vehicle that suddenly loses power can become a hazard to other drivers. If the engine fails on a busy highway or in heavy traffic, it can lead to rear-end collisions or multi-vehicle accidents, as other drivers may not have enough time to react.
- Reduced Safety Systems Effectiveness: Many modern vehicles rely on engine power for various safety systems, such as power steering and anti-lock brakes. A loss of power can render these systems less effective or inoperative, further increasing the risk of an accident.
Overall, the issue not only compromises the immediate operational safety of the vehicle but also poses broader risks to road safety.
4 Steps Affected Owners Should Take
- Verify Vehicle Involvement
Check if your vehicle is affected by visiting the NHTSA recalls website or by using your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If a recall does not appear, your vehicle is not currently affected. However, it is advisable to check back regularly as recalls are frequently updated.
- Wait for Notification
Toyota will notify owners of affected vehicles by late July. Keep an eye out for official communication regarding the recall.
- Schedule an Appointment to Complete Recall Repair Work
Once you receive notification, contact your local Toyota dealership to schedule a recall service appointment. You can also proactively reach out to confirm your vehicle’s status and set up an appointment.
- Take the Vehicle in for Recall Service
Bring your vehicle to the dealership for the necessary recall repairs. Toyota will provide all required repairs at no cost under warranty.
If the problem continues after the recall service, consider contacting a lemon law attorney for further assistance. You may be eligible for a refund or financial compensation under California’s Lemon Law.
Additional Resources and Contacts
- Toyota Customer Service: Call 800-331-4331 for more information or assistance.
- NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V381000
- Toyota Recall Numbers: 24TB07/24TA07 and 24LB04/24LA04
Staying informed and proactive is key to ensuring your vehicle’s safety and performance.
Toyota Tundra Engine Problems? Get in Touch with the Lemon Law Experts
If you are dealing with engine issues in your Toyota Tundra or Lexus LX, you might have a valid lemon law claim under California law. These issues, which have prompted a recall of the 2022 and 2023 models due to potential engine failure, can significantly affect your vehicle’s performance and safety.
Under California’s lemon law, you could be entitled to a repurchase or replacement vehicle. A lemon law replacement involves providing you with a comparable vehicle, while a lemon law repurchase reimburses you for all monies spent on the defective vehicle. This includes:
- Down payment
- Monthly payments
- Taxes
- Registration renewal
- Incidental expenses related to the lemon such as tow car and rental car expenses
Also, as the prevailing party, the automaker is required to pay for your attorney fees and costs. Big auto manufacturers, however, have experienced legal teams to handle breach of warranty claims, and they have substantial resources to defend themselves.
If you try to manage your claim alone, you risk being outmatched, which is why you will need help from a reputable legal team with extensive experience in handling lemon law claims.
At the Lemon Law Experts, we have been championing consumer rights in California since 2009. With a proven track record, we have helped thousands of clients across the state recover millions of dollars for their claims against major auto manufacturers. Our persistence and expertise have consistently led to successful outcomes in claims against Toyota.
Don’t navigate this issue alone. Reach out to the Lemon Law Experts to get the results and recovery to which you are entitled to. To find out if your case qualifies or if you have any questions about a Toyota vehicle you purchased or leased in California, contact us today for a free consultation. Call 877-885-5366 or fill out a form on our website to get started.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Recall Miscellaneous Report 24V381. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RMISC-24V381-8150.pdf
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Recall Notice 24V381. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCMN-24V381-1577.pdf
Ewing, S. (2024, May 30). Toyota Tundra, Lexus LX Recalled for Engine Debris Issue. Retrieved from https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60992514/toyota-tundra-lexus-lx-engine-recall/
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Recall Report 24V381. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCLRPT-24V381-6004.PDF
Consumer Reports. (2024, June 10). Lexus LX and Toyota Tundra Recalled Due to Debris in Engines. Retrieved from https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-recalls-defects/lexus-lx-and-toyota-tundra-recalled-due-to-debris-in-engines-a4957076545/