I think the happiest people in the world to see all the media hype over the iPad launch yesterday was not Mac. It was Toyota, because for a day the spotlight was not shining on the clusterfuck that is their massive recall and legally implemented sales halt. I feel bad for them, really I do. If you haven't been following the story, Toyota calls it "pedal entrapment problems caused by floormats". This means the pedal was slightly too long, and floormat cut slightly too generously. If you have one of the 4.2 million cars affected by this problem, you should immeditately do the following complex process to ensure the safety of you and your family:
1. Pull out the floormat.
But then there is that other recall, the one where the accelerator pedals actually are sticking due to worn components. This is a bit of a problem for the 1.7 million owners of recent models, and to the dealers who have them on the lot. Luckily, Scion and Lexus models are not affected. But, it does include the Pontiac Vibe, which is basically a Matrix with the General's badge.
The following models are affected by the recall
• 2009-2010 RAV4
• 2009-2010 Corolla
• 2009-2010 Matrix
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2007-2010 Camry
• 2010 Highlander
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2008-2010 Sequoia
But this is also a bigger blow to Toyota - it's not like the company can rely on its edgy styling, sporty performance or individualistic appeal. Toyota's sell well because they are solid, reliable transportation, and this is no doubt going to tarnish the image in the mind of many consumers.
But, if you find yourself in the horrifying situation where your accelerator sticks, remember the following advanced driving techniques that could save your life:
1. Hit the brakes, idiot. If that doesn't work, shift into neutral.
Heres a link to the press release with some FAQ's:
http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/toyota/toyota-consumer-safety-advisory-102572.aspx
Broken Down- early 90's Mistubishi Eclipse, 97 Mercury Grand Marquis
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