Toyota Tundra & Lexus Engine Recall (V35A): Engine Failure Risk, Affected Models, and Legal Options

Toyota issued a new V35A engine recall after determining that a prior repair did not fully resolve internal debris issues.

Toyota V35A Engine Recall – Quick Facts

• Vehicles Affected: 2022–2024 Toyota Tundra, 2022–2024 Lexus LX, 2024 Lexus GX
• Issue: Metal debris left in engine during manufacturing
• Risk: Engine knocking, stalling, or engine failure
• Fix: No final repair announced yet
• Recall Notices: Expected January 5, 2026

Toyota has announced a safety recall involving 126,691 Toyota and Lexus vehicles equipped with the V35A engine after determining that earlier corrective actions did not fully address the underlying defect.

The recall, issued on November 6, 2025, follows a prior campaign for the same issue but now extends to additional vehicles and newer model years that were not previously included.

Toyota’s investigation found that some engines manufactured after the earlier recall still contained machining debris, raising concerns about long-term reliability and safety.

An engine stall while driving can result in a sudden loss of motive power, which increases the risk of a crash, particularly at higher speeds or in traffic.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), defects that cause engine stalling or loss of motive power are considered serious safety risks because they significantly increase the likelihood of collisions, particularly at highway speeds.

Cause of the Toyota V35A Engine Defect

Short answer: Metal debris left inside the V35A engine during manufacturing can contaminate bearings and oil passages, leading to engine damage, stalling, or failure.

During machining, small fragments of metal can remain in oil passages or adhere to bearing surfaces. Because the V35A engine operates under high internal loads, these fragments can accelerate bearing wear and restrict lubrication.

Over time, this can lead to engine knocking, rough operation, failure to start, or sudden stalling.

Toyota identified this risk after recovering failed engines and conducting detailed teardown inspections.

2024 Toyota V35A Engine Recall

Toyota issued a recall for this issue in the past, and for some of the same vehicles involved in this recall. In those recalls, the issue was the same: leftover debris from the manufacturing process was stuck in the engine and could lead to stalling and other engine issues.

Some consumers have even filed class action lawsuits against Toyota for these engine issues, alleging that Toyota’s efforts to remedy the issue are insufficient to truly address the issue.

One of these class action lawsuits was specifically for the 2024 Toyota Tundra, which is also involved in this ongoing recall.

While class actions address broad issues, individual lemon law claims often resolve faster and focus on the specific vehicle’s repair history.

Warning Signs of the Toyota V35A Engine Defect

• Engine knocking or ticking noises
• Rough running or vibration
• Check engine light
• Sudden engine stall while driving
• Failure to start
• Loss of power at highway speeds

Toyota’s Current Plan to Address the Engine Issue

Short answer: Toyota has not yet announced a final repair remedy and will notify owners once a solution is available.

Because the defect involves internal engine contamination, Toyota has indicated that the repair may require significant engine work or full replacement. The company has not confirmed the exact scope of the repair at this time.

Toyota expects to begin mailing recall notification letters by January 5, 2026. Owners who previously paid for engine repairs related to this condition may be eligible for reimbursement once the remedy is announced.

What Owners Should Do Now

1. Watch for your recall notice: Owner letters are expected in early 2026.
2. Schedule service when instructed: Repairs will be completed at authorized Toyota or Lexus dealerships.
3. Monitor for symptoms: Knocking sounds, rough running, or engine stalling should be addressed immediately.
4. Save all records: Documentation may be important if issues persist.
5. Understand your options: Vehicles that cannot be repaired may qualify for consumer protection remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Toyota Engine Recall

Which vehicles are affected by this recall?

The recall includes 2022–2024 Toyota Tundra, 2022–2024 Lexus LX, and 2024 Lexus GX models equipped with the V35A engine, including newer vehicles not part of the earlier recall.

Is it safe to drive my vehicle before repairs are available?

Toyota has not issued a stop-driving advisory, but engine stalling can occur without warning. Owners experiencing engine noise or loss of power should contact a dealer immediately.

What if my engine problems continue after repairs?

If your vehicle continues to experience engine failure or spends extended time in the shop, lemon law protections may apply, depending on state law.

What Can I Do If My Issues Persist?

Vehicles that continue to experience serious engine problems after repair attempts, or that spend extended time in the shop, may qualify for relief under state lemon laws. Lemon laws are designed to protect consumers when manufacturers are unable to fix substantial defects within a reasonable number of attempts.

Engine-related defects are often considered significant because they affect vehicle safety, reliability, and value.

Pursuing a lemon law claim is an individual legal process that allows eligible consumers to seek a refund or replacement vehicle from the manufacturer.

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, repair history, and how long the vehicle has been out of service.

Affected Model	Average Lemon Law Settlement
Toyota Tundra	$94,608
Lexus LX	$184,996
Lexus GX	$127,890

*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.

Contact the Lemon Law Experts Today!

Dealing with a vehicle that won’t stay fixed is frustrating and stressful but getting back on the road doesn’t have to be.

With the right legal help by your side, bringing a lemon law claim can feel empowering and freeing rather than intimidating.

The Lemon Law Experts have experience helping thousands of consumers and know how to navigate the lemon law landscape with ease.

Let us take a look at your claim and help you decide what your next steps are. Contact us today by calling (877) 885-5366 or by filling out an online contact form on our website.