SAFETY RECALL 20TA08 – Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation – 2019-2020 Toyota RAV4 & RAV4 Hybrid

May 20, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V286000

Front Lower Suspension Arms May Separate

If a suspension control arm breaks, it can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V286

Manufacturer ToyotaeBay logo Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Components SUSPENSION

Potential Number of Units Affected 9,502

 

Summary

ToyotaeBay logo Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (ToyotaeBay logo) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. The front lower suspension arms may have cracks, which may result in the suspension arm separating from the front wheel assembly.

 

Remedy

ToyotaeBay logo will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms, free of charge. This recall began August 10, 2020. Owners may contact ToyotaeBay logo customer service at 1-888-270-9371. ToyotaeBay logo’s interim numbers for this recall are 20TB08 / 20TA08.

 

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

 

Check if your Vehicle has a Recall

 


Original Publication Date: May 20, 2020

To: All ToyotaeBay logo Dealer Principals, General Managers, Service Managers, and Parts Managers

SAFETY RECALL 20TA08 (Interim Notice 20TB08)

Certain 2019 – 2020 Model Year Rav4
Certain 2019 – 2020 Model Year Rav4 Hybrid
Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation

Model / YearsProduction
Period
Approximate
Total
Vehicles
Approximate Stop
Sale Dealer Inventory
Rav4 2019 – 2020Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 20197,300360
Rav4 Hybrid 2019 – 2020Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 20192,20050

 

Red Stop
STOP! DO NOT SELL NEW VEHICLES IN DEALER INVENTORY.

Refer to Dealer Inventory Procedures section for more details.

Red Stop

 

On May 20, 2020, Toyota filed a Defect Information Report (DIR) with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) informing the agency of our intent to conduct a voluntary Safety Recall on 2019 – 2020 model year Rav4 and Rav4 Hybrid vehicles.

 

Condition

The front lower suspension arms, which connect to the front wheels, on the subject vehicles may have been manufactured with improperly produced material. If a vehicle is driven frequently with rapid acceleration and deceleration over its lifetime, an involved front lower suspension arm can eventually separate, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

 

Remedy

ToyotaeBay logo is currently preparing the remedy for this issue. When the remedy is available, ToyotaeBay logo dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones FREE OF CHARGE. At this time, ToyotaeBay logo estimates the remedy can be available in July 2020.

 

Covered Vehicles

There are approximately 9,500 vehicles covered by this Safety Recall. Approximately 1,000 vehicles involved in this Safety Recall were distributed to Puerto Rico.

 

Owner Letter Mailing Date

ToyotaeBay logo will notify owners by mid-July 2020.

ToyotaeBay logo makes significant effort to obtain current customer name and address information from each state through industry resources when mailing owner letters. In the event your dealership receives a notice for a vehicle that was sold prior to the Safety Recall announcement, it is the dealershipโ€™s responsibility to forward the owner letter to the customer who purchased the vehicle.

Please note that only owners of the covered vehicles will be notified. If you are contacted by an owner who has not yet received a notification, please verify eligibility by confirming through TIS prior to performing repairs. Dealers should perform the repair as outlined in the Technical Instructions found on TIS.

 

Dealer Inventory Procedures

New Vehicles in Dealership Inventory

There are approximately 410 vehicles in new dealer inventory as of May 19, 2020.

Red Stop
Under Title 49, Section 30112 of the United States Code, a dealer cannot sell, offer for sale, or introduce or deliver for introduction in interstate commerce a new motor vehicle when it is aware that the vehicle does not comply with an applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or contains a defect related to motor vehicle safety.  Further, 49 Code of Federal Regulations ยง577.13 requires us to provide the following advisory:  It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect or noncompliance is remedied.

ToyotaeBay logo reimburses dealers for flooring costs associated with new vehicles held in dealership inventory until the recall remedy becomes available.  ToyotaeBay logo provides these flooring reimbursements at 60-day intervals.  ToyotaeBay logo reserves the right to withhold or charge-back any flooring reimbursement funds that may have been paid to the dealer if it determines that a new vehicle subject to a safety recall was sold without first being remedied.

Vehicle Safety Recall completion should always be verified through TIS. We request your assistance to ensure involved vehicles are identified and not delivered prior to performing the remedy.

 

NOTE:

  • New vehicles in dealer inventory subject to a Safety Recall must be remedied before delivery into commerce under a sale or lease. Dealer-to-dealer trades as well as vehicle sales between dealers should not be made until a vehicle is remedied.
  • Dealers can identify if any of their new and used inventory has any open campaigns in the Vehicle Inventory Summary available in Dealer Daily (Non SET and GST dealers: https://dealerdaily.toyota.com/). The Vehicle Inventory Summary may take up to 4 hours to populate information for newly launched campaigns.

 

Inspection Reminder Mirror Hang Tags for Covered Vehicles in New Dealer Stock

To easily recognize vehicles involved in this Safety Recall, each dealership should utilize Inspection Reminder Hang Tags. Inside the vehicleโ€™s glove box are stickers containing the VIN. Apply one of these stickers to the hang tag and install the hang tag in the vehicle. A sample copy of the Inspection Reminder Hang Tag has been included for your reference.

Hold For Inspection

Part NumberDescriptionQuantity
00411-140003Inspection Mirror Hang Tag25 Per Pack

 

NOTE: Dealerships can order hang tags from the Material Distribution Center (MDC).

 

Pre-Owned Vehicles in Dealer Inventory

ToyotaeBay logo typically requests that dealers NOT deliver any pre-owned vehicles in dealer inventory that are covered by a Safety Recall unless the defect has been remedied. In this case, until remedy parts are available, delivery of a pre-owned vehicle is acceptable if disclosed to the customer that the vehicle is involved in this Safety Recall and that the remedy is currently being prepared by ToyotaeBay logo.

ToyotaeBay logo expects dealers to use the attached Customer Contact and Vehicle Disclosure Form to obtain vehicle buyer information. Dealers are expected to provide a copy of the completed form, along with the most current FAQ, to the vehicle buyer. ToyotaeBay logo and the dealer may use this information to contact the customer when the remedy becomes available.

Keep the completed form on file at the dealership and send a copy to quality_compliance@toyotaeBay logo.com. In the subject line of the email, state โ€œDisclosure Form 20TA08/20TB08โ€ and include the VIN.

NOTE: Dealers can identify if any of their new and used inventory has any open campaigns in the Vehicle Inventory Summary available in Dealer Daily (Non SET and GST dealers: https://dealerdaily.toyota.com/). The

Vehicle Inventory Summary may take up to 4 hours to populate information for newly launched campaigns.

 

ToyotaeBay logo Certified Used Vehicle (TCUV)

The TCUV policy prohibits the certification of any vehicle with an outstanding Safety Recall, Special Service Campaign, or Limited Service Campaign. Thus, no affected units are to be designated, sold, or delivered as a TCUV until all applicable Safety Recalls, Special Service Campaigns, and Limited Service Campaigns have been completed on that vehicle.

 

ToyotaeBay logo Rent-A-Car (TRAC) & Service Loaners

ToyotaeBay logo requests that dealers remove all TRAC and Service Loaner vehicles from service that are covered by a Safety Recall unless the defect has been remedied.

 

Customer Handling, Parts Ordering, and Remedy Procedures

Customer Contacts

Customers who receive the owner letter may contact your dealership with questions regarding the letter and/or the Safety Recall. Please welcome them to your dealership and answer any questions that they may have. A Q&A is provided to assure a consistent message is communicated.

Customers with additional questions or concerns are asked to please contact the ToyotaeBay logo Customer Experience Center (1-888-270-9371) – Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time.

 

Salvage Title Vehicles

Every attempt should be made to complete an open Safety Recall when circumstances permit, unless noted otherwise in the Safety Recall dealer letter.

For complete details on this policy, refer to ToyotaeBay logo Warranty Policy 4.17, โ€œWhat Is Not Covered by The ToyotaeBay logo New Vehicle Limited Warrantyโ€.

 

Media Contacts

It is imperative that all media contacts (local and national) receive a consistent message. In this regard, all media contacts must be directed to Tania Saldana (859) 815-9968 in ToyotaeBay logo Corporate Communications. Please do not provide this number to customers. Please provide this contact only to media.

 

Warranty Reimbursement Procedures

Loaner Vehicle or Alternative Transportation Reimbursement Procedure

Until the remedy is available, customers who are uncomfortable driving their vehicle during the interim phase may receive a loaner vehicle or alternative transportation through ToyotaeBay logo Rent-A-CAR (TRAC) which can be claimed for $35 per day.

Op CodeDescription
TB08R1Vehicle Rental 1-30 Days
TB08R2Vehicle Rental 31-60 Days

 

NOTE:

  • Rental invoice MUST be attached to all rental claims. These claims may be subject to debit if rental invoice is not attached.
  • Rentals that exceed the maximum allowable daily rate will require DSPM authorization per the Toyota Transportation Assistance Policy (TTAP).

 

Campaign Designation / Phase Decoder

Campaign Designation / Phase Decoder
Examples:

19TA01 = Launched in 2019, ToyotaeBay logo, Safety Recall Remedy Phase, 1st Safety Recall Launched in 2019

20TC02 = Launched in 2020, Special Service Campaign, 2nd Special Service Campaign Launched in 2020

21TE05 = Launched in 2021, Customer Support Program, 5th Customer Support Program Launched in 2021

 

Please review this entire package with your Service and Parts staff to familiarize them with the proper step-by-step procedures required to implement this Safety Recall.

 

Thank you for your cooperation.
TOYOTAeBay logo MOTOR SALES, U.S.A., INC.


SAFETY RECALL 20TA08 (Interim Notice 20TB08)

Certain 2019 – 2020 Model Year Rav4
Certain 2019 – 2020 Model Year Rav4 Hybrid
Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation

Frequently Asked Questions
Original Publication Date: May 20, 2020

Q1:What is the condition?
A1:The front lower suspension arms, which connect to the front wheels, on the subject vehicles may have been manufactured with improperly produced material. If a vehicle is driven frequently with rapid acceleration and deceleration over its lifetime, an involved front lower suspension arm can eventually separate, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Q1a: Are there any warnings that this condition exists?
A1a: No, there are no warnings prior to the occurrence of the condition.

 

Q2:What is ToyotaeBay logo going to do?
A2:When the remedy becomes available, ToyotaeBay logo will send an owner notification by first class mail advising owners to make an appointment with their authorized ToyotaeBay logo dealer to replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones FREE OF CHARGE.

 

Q3:When will the remedy become available?
A3:ToyotaeBay logo is currently preparing the parts and repair instructions for the remedy. At this time, ToyotaeBay logo estimates that the remedy can be available in July 2020.

 

Q4:Which and how many vehicles are covered by this Safety Recall?
A4:There are approximately 9,500 vehicles covered by this Safety Recall.

Model Name Model Year Approximate UIO Production Period
Rav4 2019 – 2020 7,300 Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 2019
Rav4 Hybrid 2019 – 2020 2,200 Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 2019

 

Q4a: Are there any other Lexus/ToyotaeBay logo/ScioneBay logo vehicles covered by this Safety Recall in the U.S.?
A4a: No, there are no other Lexus/ToyotaeBay logo/ScioneBay logo vehicles covered by this Safety Recall.

 

Q5: How does ToyotaeBay logo obtain my mailing information?
A5:ToyotaeBay logo uses an industry provider who works with each stateโ€™s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to receive registration or title information, based upon the DMV records. Please make sure your registration or title information is correct.

 

Q6: What if I have additional questions or concerns?
A6:If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact the ToyotaeBay logo Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371 Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time.

 

 


INTERIM NOTICE

We are currently preparing the remedy. We will notify you again when the remedy is available.

This notice applies to your vehicle:

VIN ABCDEFGH987654321

IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL (Interim Notice)

Certain 2019โ€“2020 Model Year RAV4 Vehicles
Certain 2019โ€“2020 Model Year RAV4 Hybrid Vehicles
Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation
NHTSA Recall No. 20V-286

Dear <FirstName/LastName>:

What Should You Do?

We appreciate your patience while we prepare the remedy. We will notify you again when the remedy is available. Your local ToyotaeBay logo dealer will be more than happy to answer any of your questions.

To find a dealer near you, visit www.toyotaeBay logo.com/dealers

For more information on this and other Safety Recalls, including Frequently Asked Questions, visit www.toyotaeBay logo.com/recall. Input your full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) noted above to review information specific to your vehicle.

If you require further assistance, you may contact the ToyotaeBay logo Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371 Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Central Time.

 

This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. ToyotaeBay logo has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2019-2020 model year RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles.

You received this notice because our records, which are based primarily on state registration and title data, indicate that you are the current owner.

 

What is the condition?

The front lower suspension arms, which connect to the front wheels, on the subject vehicles may have been manufactured with improperly produced material. Under certain driving conditions, over time, affected front lower suspension arms can separate from the front wheel assembly, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and an increase risk of a crash.

Spanish translation on back side Traducciรณn en espaรฑol en el lado inverso

 

What will ToyotaeBay logo do?

ToyotaeBay logo is currently preparing the remedy. When the remedy becomes available, ToyotaeBay logo dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones FREE OF CHARGE.

This is an important Safety Recall.

We appreciate your patience while we prepare the remedy.

You will receive a second owner notification when the remedy is available.

If the vehicle is experiencing the condition described and you are unable to drive the vehicle to the dealership, please contact your local authorized ToyotaeBay logo dealer who will arrange for vehicle pickup.

 

What if you are not the owner or operator of this vehicle?

If you are a vehicle lessor, Federal Law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.

If you know the current owner or operator, please forward this letter to them.

If you would like to update your vehicle ownership or contact information, please visit https://www.toyotaeBay logo.com/recall/update-info-toyotaeBay logo. You will need your full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to input the new information.

If you believe that the dealer or ToyotaeBay logo has failed or is unable to remedy the defect within a reasonable time or without charge, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590, or call the toll free Vehicle Safety Hot Line at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

We have sent this notice in the interest of your continued satisfaction with our products. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this condition may have caused you.

Thank you for driving a ToyotaeBay logo.

Sincerely,

ToyotaeBay logo Motor Sales, USA

20TB08 Interim

 


NOTIFICACIร“N INTERINO

Actualmente estamos preparando el remedio. Nosotros le notificaremos de nuevo cuando el remedio estรฉ disponible.

Este aviso aplica a su vehรญculo:

VIN ABCDEFGH987654321

RETIRO DE SEGURIDAD IMPORTANTE (Notificaciรณn interino)

Ciertos vehรญculos modelo RAV4 de aรฑo 2019โ€“2020
Ciertos vehรญculos modelo RAV4 Hybrid de aรฑo 2019โ€“2020
Pรฉrdida potencial del control del vehรญculo debido a la separaciรณn del brazo de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera
Retiro de Seguridad de NHTSA No. 20V-286

Estimado (nombre/apellido del cliente):

ยฟQuรฉ Debe Hacer?

Nosotros apreciamos su paciencia mientras preparamos el remedio. Nosotros le notificaremos de nuevo cuando el remedio estรฉ disponible. Su concesionario ToyotaeBay logo local responderรก con gusto todas sus preguntas.

Para encontrar un concesionario cerca de usted, visite www.toyotaeBay logo.com/dealers.

Si desea mรกs informaciรณn sobre este y otros Retiros de Seguridad, incluyendo las preguntas frecuentes, visite www.toyotaeBay logo.com/recall. Ingrese el nรบmero de identificaciรณn de su vehรญculo de 17 dรญgitos (VIN) indicado arriba para revisar la informaciรณn especรญfica de su vehรญculo.

Si requiere mรกs asistencia, puede comunicarse con el Centro de Experiencias del Cliente ToyotaeBay logo llamando al 1-888-270-9371, de lunes a viernes, de 7:00 a.m. a 7:00 p.m., y los sรกbados de 7:00 a.m. a 4:30 p.m., Horario del Centro.

 

Se le envรญa esta notificaciรณn de acuerdo con la Ley Nacional de la oficina de Administraciรณn Nacional de Seguridad del Trรกfico en las Carreteras (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration o NHTSA por sus siglas en inglรฉs). ToyotaeBay logo ha decidido que existe un defecto, que se relaciona con la seguridad de los vehรญculos de motor en ciertos vehรญculos modelo RAV4 y RAV4 Hybrid de aรฑo 2019โ€“2020.

Usted recibiรณ esta notificaciรณn porque nuestros registros, que se basan principalmente en los datos del estado de registro y de tรญtulo, indican que usted es el propietario actual.

 

ยฟCuรกl es la condiciรณn?

Los brazos de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera, los cuales se conectan con las ruedas delanteras, en los vehรญculos sujetos, pueden haber sido fabricados con material producido inadecuadamente. Bajo ciertas condiciones de conducciรณn, con el paso del tiempo, los brazos de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera afectados pueden separarse del conjunto de las ruedas delanteras, ocasionado una pรฉrdida de control del vehรญculo y aumentando el riesgo de un choque.

English version on front side Versiรณn en inglรฉs en el frente

 

ยฟQuรฉ harรก ToyotaeBay logo?

ToyotaeBay logo actualmente estรก preparando el remedio. Cuando el remedio estรฉ disponible, los concesionarios ToyotaeBay logo reemplazarรกn SIN CARGO ambos brazos de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera con unos nuevos.

Este es un Retiro de Seguridad importante.

Nosotros apreciamos su paciencia mientras preparamos el remedio.

Usted recibirรก una segunda notificaciรณn al propietario cuando el remedio estรฉ disponible.

Si el vehรญculo estรก experimentando las condiciones descritas y no puede conducir el vehรญculo al concesionario, por favor comunรญquese con su concesionario ToyotaeBay logo autorizado local, el cual coordinarรก recoger el vehรญculo.

 

ยฟQuรฉ pasa si usted no es el propietario o el operador de este vehรญculo?

Si usted arrienda el vehรญculo, la ley federal requiere que todo arrendador de vehรญculo que reciba esta notificaciรณn del Retiro de Seguridad debe enviar una copia del aviso al arrendatario en menos de diez dรญas.

Si conoce al propietario u operador actual, sea tan amable de enviarle esta carta.

Si quisiera actualizar la informaciรณn de propiedad o de contacto de su vehรญculo, por favor visite https://www.toyotaeBay logo.com/recall/update-info-toyotaeBay logo. Necesitarรก el nรบmero de identificaciรณn del vehรญculo (VIN) completo de 17 dรญgitos para ingresar la nueva informaciรณn.

Si cree que el concesionario o ToyotaeBay logo no ha cumplido o no ha podido arreglar el defecto en un plazo razonable o sin cargo, puede enviar una queja al Administrador, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590, o llamar a la lรญnea directa sin costo de los vehรญculos al 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), o visite https://www.safercar.gov.

Hemos enviado esta notificaciรณn con el interรฉs de que usted estรฉ continuamente satisfecho con nuestros productos.

Lamentamos sinceramente cualquier inconveniente que este problema le pudo haber ocasionado.

Muchas gracias por conducir un ToyotaeBay logo.

Atentamente,

ToyotaeBay logo Motor Sales, USA

20TB08 Interim

 


Original Publication Date: July 23, 2020

To: All ToyotaeBay logo Dealer Principals, General Managers, Service Managers, and Parts Managers

SAFETY RECALL 20TA08 (Remedy Notice)

Certain 2019 – 2020 Model Year Rav4
Certain 2019 โ€“ 2020 Model Year Rav4 Hybrid
Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation
NHTSA Recall No. 20V-286

Model / YearsProduction PeriodApproximate Total VehiclesApproximate Stop Sale Dealer Inventory
Rav4 2019 โ€“ 2020Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 20197,300360
Rav4 Hybrid 2019 – 2020Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 20192,20050

 

Red Stop

STOP! DO NOT SELL NEW VEHICLES IN DEALER INVENTORY.

Refer to Dealer Inventory Procedures section for more details.

Red Stop

 

On May 20, 2020, Toyota filed a Defect Information Report (DIR) with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) informing the agency of our intent to conduct a voluntary Safety Recall on certain 2019 – 2020 model year Rav4 and Rav4 Hybrid vehicles.

 

Condition

The front lower suspension arms, which connect to the front wheels, on the subject vehicles may have been manufactured with improperly produced material.  Under certain driving conditions, over time, affected front lower suspension arms can separate from the front wheel assembly, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and an increase risk of a crash.

 

Remedy

Any authorized ToyotaeBay logo dealer will replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones FREE OF CHARGE.

 

Covered Vehicles

There are approximately 9,500 vehicles covered by this Safety Recall. Approximately 1,000 vehicles involved in this Safety Recall were distributed to Puerto Rico.

 

Owner Letter Mailing Date

ToyotaeBay logo will begin to notify owners in early August 2020. A sample of the owner notification letter has been included for your reference.

ToyotaeBay logo makes significant effort to obtain current customer name and address information from each state through industry resources when mailing owner letters. In the event your dealership receives a notice for a vehicle that was sold prior to the Safety Recall announcement, it is the dealershipโ€™s responsibility to forward the owner letter to the customer who purchased the vehicle.

Please note that only owners of the covered vehicles will be notified. If you are contacted by an owner who has not yet received a notification, please verify eligibility by confirming through TIS prior to performing repairs. Dealers should perform the repair as outlined in the Technical Instructions found on TIS.

 

Dealer Inventory Procedures

New Vehicles in Dealership Inventory

There are approximately 410 vehicles in new dealer inventory as of May 19, 2020

Red Stop
Under Title 49, Section 30112 of the United States Code, a dealer cannot sell, offer for sale, or introduce or deliver for introduction in interstate commerce a new motor vehicle when it is aware that the vehicle does not comply with an applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or contains a defect related to motor vehicle safety.  Further, 49 Code of Federal Regulations ยง577.13 requires us to provide the following advisory:  It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect or noncompliance is remedied.

ToyotaeBay logo reimburses dealers for flooring costs associated with new vehicles held in dealership inventory until the recall remedy becomes available.  ToyotaeBay logo provides these flooring reimbursements at 60-day intervals.  ToyotaeBay logo reserves the right to withhold or charge-back any flooring reimbursement funds that may have been paid to the dealer if it determines that a new vehicle subject to a safety recall was sold without first being remedied.

Vehicle Safety Recall completion should always be verified through TIS. We request your assistance to ensure involved vehicles are identified and not delivered prior to performing the remedy.

 

NOTE:

  • New vehicles in dealer inventory subject to a Safety Recall must be remedied before delivery into commerce under a sale or lease. Dealer-to-dealer trades as well as vehicle sales between dealers should not be made until a vehicle is remedied.
  • Dealers can identify if any of their new and used inventory has any open campaigns in the Vehicle Inventory Summary available in Dealer Daily (Non SET and GST dealers: https://dealerdaily.toyota.com/). The Vehicle Inventory Summary may take up to 4 hours to populate information for newly launched campaigns.

 

Inspection Reminder Mirror Hang Tags for Covered Vehicles in New Dealer Stock

To easily recognize vehicles involved in this Safety Recall, each dealership should utilize Inspection Reminder Hang Tags. Inside the vehicleโ€™s glove box are stickers containing the VIN. Apply one of these stickers to the hang tag and install the hang tag in the vehicle. A sample copy of the Inspection Reminder Hang Tag has been included for your reference.

Hold For Inspection

Part NumberDescriptionQuantity
00411-140003Inspection Mirror Hang Tag25 Per Pack

 

NOTE: Dealerships can order hang tags from the Material Distribution Center (MDC).

 

Pre-Owned Vehicles in Dealer Inventory

To ensure customer satisfaction, ToyotaeBay logo requests that dealers complete this Safety Recall on any used vehicles currently in dealer inventory that are covered by this Safety Recall prior to customer delivery. However, if the campaign cannot be completed (for example, due to remedy parts availability), delivery of a covered vehicle is acceptable if disclosed to the customer that the vehicle is involved in a Safety Recall.

ToyotaeBay logo expects dealers to use the attached Customer Contact and Vehicle Disclosure Form to obtain vehicle buyer information. Dealers are expected to provide a copy of the completed form, along with the most current FAQ, to the vehicle buyer. ToyotaeBay logo and the dealer may use this information to contact the customer when the remedy becomes available.

Keep the completed form on file at the dealership and send a copy to quality_compliance@toyotaeBay logo.com. In the subject line of the email state, โ€œDisclosure Form 20TA08โ€ and include the VIN.

NOTE: Dealers can identify if any of their new and used inventory has any open campaigns in the Vehicle Inventory Summary available in Dealer Daily (Non SET and GST dealers: https://dealerdaily.toyota.com/). The Vehicle Inventory Summary may take up to 4 hours to populate information for newly launched campaigns.

 

ToyotaeBay logo Certified Used Vehicle (TCUV)

The TCUV policy prohibits the certification of any vehicle with an outstanding Safety Recall, Special Service Campaign, or Limited Service Campaign. Thus, no affected units are to be designated, sold, or delivered as a TCUV until all applicable Safety Recalls, Special Service Campaigns, and Limited Service Campaigns have been completed on that vehicle.

 

ToyotaeBay logo Rent-A-Car (TRAC) & Service Loaners

ToyotaeBay logo requests that dealers remove all TRAC and Service Loaner vehicles from service that are covered by a Safety Recall unless the defect has been remedied.

 

Customer Handling, Parts Ordering, and Remedy Procedures

Customer Contacts

Customers who receive the owner letter may contact your dealership with questions regarding the letter and/or the Safety Recall. Please welcome them to your dealership and answer any questions that they may have. A Q&A is provided to assure a consistent message is communicated.

Customers with additional questions or concerns are asked to please contact the ToyotaeBay logo Customer Experience Center (1-888-270-9371) – Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time.

 

Head Unit Notifications

Head unit notifications are electronic messages that are displayed in the vehicleโ€™s audio system screen. Customers who receive head unit notification regarding this Safety Recall are requested to schedule an appointment with their authorized dealer to have this Safety Recall completed.

When these messages are received by the vehicleโ€™s Data Communication Module, the head unit will display a pop-up prompt stating that the vehicle has a new Safety Recall. The prompt will contain options to โ€˜Snoozeโ€™ or to โ€˜Viewโ€™ the message. If a customer chooses โ€˜Snoozeโ€™, the message will continue to reappear every 20 minutes until the customer chooses โ€˜Viewโ€™. If a customer views and then closes the message, the message will be available in the Notification App if the customer chooses to review it again. If the vehicleโ€™s completion status remains incomplete for a period of 90 days from the message being viewed, the head unit may display a renotification pop-up prompt as an additional reminder to the customer to have this Safety Recall completed.

The message will completely clear from the vehicle once the following conditions are met: The Safety Recall is completed, the dealer has filed a claim, and the claim is approved by ToyotaeBay logo. Then the message will be cleared at the next clearing cycle, which currently happens weekly.

Owners who receive a head unit notification after having this Safety Recall completed can be advised to ignore the message. Owners with additional concerns can be directed to the ToyotaeBay logo Customer Experience Center (1888-270-9371) – Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time.

 

Salvage Title Vehicles

Every attempt should be made to complete an open Safety Recall when circumstances permit, unless noted otherwise in the Safety Recall dealer letter.

For complete details on this policy, refer to ToyotaeBay logo Warranty Policy 4.17, โ€œWhat Is Not Covered by The ToyotaeBay logo New Vehicle Limited Warrantyโ€.

 

Media Contacts

It is imperative that all media contacts (local and national) receive a consistent message. In this regard, all media contacts must be directed to Tania Saldana (859) 815-9968 in ToyotaeBay logo Corporate Communications. Please do not provide this number to customers. Please provide this contact only to media.

 

Parts Ordering Process Non SET and GST Parts Ordering Process

It is possible that parts for this campaign are either required to be ordered in Campaign Part Order Request (CPOR) on Service Lane, or have been placed on Manual Allocation Control (MAC) due to potential limited part availability. Please check the CPOR/MAC report on Dealer Daily for the most up-to-date parts ordering information.

All Safety Recall, Service Campaign (SSC/LSC) parts are eligible for the Monthly Parts Return Program. Please refer to PANT Bulletin 2011-087 for campaign parts that are currently returnable under the Monthly Parts Return Program and for additional details.

DescriptionQuantityPart Number
ARM SUB-ASSY, SUSPENSION LWR RH W/BUSH104009-1B142
ARM SUB-ASSY, SUSPENSION LWR LH W/BUSH104009-1B242

 

Technician Training Requirements

The repair quality of covered vehicles is extremely important to ToyotaeBay logo. All dealership technicians performing this recall are required to successfully complete the most current version of the E-Learning course โ€œSafety Recall and Service Campaign Essentialsโ€. To ensure that all vehicles have the repair performed correctly; technicians performing this repair are required to currently hold at least one of the following certification levels:

  • Certified Technician (Chassis)
  • Expert Technician (any specialty)
  • Master Technician
  • Master Diagnostic Technician

Always check which technicians can perform the repair by logging on to https://www.uotdealerreports.com. It is the dealershipโ€™s responsibility to select technicians with the above certification level or greater to perform this recall repair. Carefully review your resources, the technician skill level, and ability before assigning technicians to this repair. It is important to consider technician days off and vacation schedules to ensure there are properly trained technicians available to perform this repair at all times.

 

Remedy Procedures

Refer to TIS for Technical Instructions on repair. Conduct all non-completed Safety Recalls and Service Campaigns on the vehicle during the time of appointment.

 

Repair Quality Confirmation

The repair quality of covered vehicles is extremely important to ToyotaeBay logo. To help ensure that all vehicles have the repair performed correctly, please designate at least one associate (someone other than the individual who performed the repair) to verify the repair quality of every vehicle prior to customer delivery.

 

Parts Recovery Procedures

All parts replaced as part of this Safety Recall must be turned over to the parts department until appropriate disposition is determined. The parts department must retain these parts until notification via the Parts Recovery System (PRS) is received indicating whether to ship or scrap the parts. These parts are utilized by various departments for defect analysis, quality control analysis, product evaluation, as well as other purposes.

To help minimize dealer storage challenges, ToyotaeBay logo recommends that dealers:

  • File the campaign claim accurately and promptly. The time a dealer is required to hold parts is based on when the campaign claim is paid by ToyotaeBay logo.
  • Monitor the Warranty Parts Recovery Notifications and Part Scrap Report regularly.

Refer to Warranty Policies 9.3 and 9.6 for additional details.

 

Warranty Reimbursement Procedures

Loaner Vehicle or Alternative Transportation Reimbursement Procedure

For customers who requested a loaner vehicle or alternative transportation through ToyotaeBay logo Rent-A-CAR (TRAC) during the interim phase, a loaner vehicle or alternative transportation can be claimed for $35 per day.

Op Code

(File under designation 20TB08)

Description
TB08R1Vehicle Rental 1-30 Days
TB08R2Vehicle Rental 31-60 Days

 

NOTE:

  • Rental invoice MUST be attached to all rental claims. These claims may be subject to debit if rental invoice is not attached.
  • Rentals that exceed the maximum allowable daily rate will require DSPM authorization per the Toyota Transportation Assistance Policy (TTAP).
  • Dealers will be allowed to file these Op Codes until October 22, 2020. After that date, no claims for alternative transportation reimbursement will be accepted.

 

Warranty Reimbursement Procedure

Warranty Reimbursement Procedure

Op CodeDescriptionFlat Rate Hours
2TA081Replace Both Front Lower Suspension Arms3.1

 

  • The flat rate time includes 0.1 hours for administrative cost per unit for the dealership.
  • The flat rate time includes inspecting and adjusting front wheel alignment.
  • Towing can be claimed under Op Code 2TA081 for a maximum of $250 as sublet type โ€œTWโ€ in the event the customer requests vehicle pickup.
    • Towing invoice MUST be attached to all towing claims. These claims may be subject to debit if towing invoice is not attached.

 

Claim Filing Accuracy and Correction Requests

It is the dealerโ€™s responsibility to file claims correctly for this Safety Recall. This claim filing information is used by ToyotaeBay logo for various government reporting activities; therefore, claim filing accuracy is crucial. If it has been identified that a claim has been filed using an incorrect Op Code or a claim has been filed for an incorrect VIN, refer to Warranty Procedure Bulletin PRO17-03 to correct the claim.

 

Campaign Designation / Phase Decoder

Campaign Designation / Phase Decoder
Examples:

19TA01 = Launched in 2019, ToyotaeBay logo, Safety Recall Remedy Phase, 1st Safety Recall Launched in 2019

20TC02 = Launched in 2020, Special Service Campaign, 2nd Special Service Campaign Launched in 2020

21TE05 = Launched in 2021, Customer Support Program, 5th Customer Support Program Launched in 2021

 

Please review this entire package with your Service and Parts staff to familiarize them with the proper step-bystep procedures required to implement this Safety Recall.

 

Thank you for your cooperation.

TOYOTAeBay logo MOTOR SALES, U.S.A., INC.


SAFETY RECALL 20TA08 (Remedy Notice)

Certain 2019 โ€“ 2020 Model Year Rav4
Certain 2019 โ€“ 2020 Model Year Rav4 Hybrid
Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation
NHTSARecall No. 20V-286

Frequently Asked Questions
Original Publication Date: July 23, 2020

 

Q1:What is the condition?
A1:The front lower suspension arms, which connect to the front wheels, on the subject vehicles may have been manufactured with improperly produced material. If a vehicle is driven frequently with rapid acceleration and deceleration over its lifetime, an involved front lower suspension arm can eventually separate, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Q1a: Are there any warnings that this condition exists?
A1a: No, there are no warnings prior to the occurrence of the condition.

 

Q2:What is ToyotaeBay logo going to do?
A2:When the remedy becomes available, ToyotaeBay logo will send an owner notification by first class mail advising owners to make an appointment with their authorized ToyotaeBay logo dealer to replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones FREE OF CHARGE.

 

Q3:When will the remedy become available?
A3:ToyotaeBay logo is currently preparing the parts and repair instructions for the remedy. At this time, Toyota estimates that the remedy can be available in July 2020.

 

Q4:Which and how many vehicles are covered by this Safety Recall?
A4:There are approximately 9,500 vehicles covered by this Safety Recall.

Model Name Model Year Approximate UIO Production Period
Rav4 2019 – 2020 7,300 Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 2019
Rav4 Hybrid 2019 – 2020 2,200 Late September 2019 โ€“ Late October 2019

 

Q4a: Are there any other Lexus/Toyota/ScioneBay logo vehicles covered by this Safety Recall in the U.S.?
A4a: No, there are no other Lexus/Toyota/ScioneBay logo vehicles covered by this Safety Recall.

 

Q5: How does Toyota obtain my mailing information?
A5:Toyota uses an industry provider who works with each stateโ€™s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to receive registration or title information, based upon the DMV records. Please make sure your registration or title information is correct.

 

Q6: What if I have additional questions or concerns?
A6:If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371 Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time.

 

 


URGENT SAFETY RECALL

This is an important Safety Recall. The remedy will be performed FREE OF CHARGE to you.

This notice applies to your vehicle:

VIN ABCDEFGH987654321

 

IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL (Remedy Notice)

Certain 2019โ€“2020 Model Year RAV4 Vehicles
Certain 2019โ€“2020 Model Year RAV4 Hybrid Vehicles
Potential Loss of Vehicle Control due to Front Lower Suspension Arm Separation
NHTSA Recall No. 20V-286

Dear <FirstName/LastName>:

What Should You Do?

Please contact any authorized Toyota dealer to schedule an appointment to have the remedy performed as soon as possible.

The remedy will require parts replacement. We recommend you contact your dealer to schedule an appointment in advance to confirm parts availability and minimize your inconvenience.

Your local Toyota dealer will be more than happy to answer any of your questions.

To find a dealer near you, visit www.toyota.com/dealers.

For more information on this and other Safety Recalls, including Frequently Asked Questions, visit www.toyota.com/recall. Input your full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) noted above to review information specific to your vehicle.

If you require further assistance, you may contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371 Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Central Time.

 

This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Toyota has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2019-2020 model year RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles.

You received this notice because our records, which are based primarily on state registration and title data, indicate that you are the current owner.

 

What is the condition?

The front lower suspension arms, which connect to the front wheels, on the subject vehicles may have been manufactured with improperly produced material. Under certain driving conditions, over time, affected front lower suspension arms can separate from the front wheel assembly, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and an increase risk of a crash.

 

What will Toyota do?

Any authorized Toyota dealer will replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones FREE OF CHARGE.

This is an important Safety Recall.

The remedy will take approximately three hours. However, depending on the dealerโ€™s work schedule, it may be necessary to make your vehicle available for a longer period of time.

If the vehicle is experiencing the condition described and you are unable to drive the vehicle to the dealership, please contact your local authorized Toyota dealer who will arrange for vehicle pickup.

 

What if you are not the owner or operator of this vehicle?

If you are a vehicle lessor, Federal Law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.

If you know the current owner or operator, please forward this letter to them.

If you would like to update your vehicle ownership or contact information, please visit https://www.toyota.com/recall/update-info-toyota. You will need your full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to input the new information.

If you believe that the dealer or Toyota has failed or is unable to remedy the defect within a reasonable time or without charge, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590, or call the toll free Vehicle Safety Hot Line at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

We have sent this notice in the interest of your continued satisfaction with our products. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this condition may have caused you.

Thank you for driving a Toyota.

Sincerely,

Toyota Motor Sales, USA

20TA08

 


RETIRO DE SEGURIDAD URGENTE

Este es un Retiro de Seguridad importante.

El remedio se realizarรก SIN CARGO para usted.

Esta notificaciรณn aplica a su vehรญculo:

VIN ABCDEFGH987654321

RETIRO DE SEGURIDAD IMPORTANTE (Aviso de Remedio)

Ciertos modelos RAV4 de aรฑo 2019โ€“2020
Ciertos modelos RAV4 Hybrid de aรฑo 2019โ€“2020
Pรฉrdida potencial del control del vehรญculo debido a la separaciรณn del brazo de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera
Retiro de Seguridad de NHTSA No. 20V-286

Estimado (nombre/apellido del cliente):

ยฟQuรฉ Debe Hacer?

Comunรญquese con cualquier concesionario Toyota autorizado para programar una cita para que realicen el remedio tan pronto como sea posible.

El remedio va a requerir reemplazo de piezas. Le recomendamos que se comunique con su concesionario para programar una cita con anticipaciรณn para confirmar la disponibilidad de las piezas y reducir al mรญnimo sus inconvenientes.

Su concesionario Toyota local responderรก con gusto todas sus preguntas.

Para encontrar un concesionario cerca de usted, visite www.toyota.com/dealers.

Si desea mรกs informaciรณn sobre este y otros Retiros de Seguridad, incluyendo las preguntas frecuentes, visite www.toyota.com/recall. Ingrese el nรบmero de identificaciรณn de su vehรญculo de 17 dรญgitos (VIN) indicado arriba para revisar la informaciรณn especรญfica de su vehรญculo.

Si requiere mรกs asistencia, puede comunicarse con el Centro de Experiencias del Cliente Toyota llamando al 1-888-270-9371, de lunes a viernes, de 7:00 a.m. a 7:00 p.m. y los sรกbados de 7:00 a.m. a 4:30 p.m., Horario del Centro.

 

Se le envรญa esta notificaciรณn de acuerdo con la Ley Nacional de la oficina de Administraciรณn Nacional de Seguridad del Trรกfico en las Carreteras (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration o NHTSA por sus siglas en inglรฉs). Toyota ha decidido que existe un defecto, que se relaciona con la seguridad de los vehรญculos de motor en ciertos vehรญculos modelo RAV4 y RAV4 Hybrid de aรฑo 2019โ€“2020.

Usted recibiรณ esta notificaciรณn porque nuestros registros, que se basan principalmente en los datos del estado de registro y de tรญtulo, indican que usted es el propietario actual.

 

ยฟCuรกl es la condiciรณn?

Los brazos de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera, los cuales se conectan con las ruedas delanteras, en los vehรญculos sujetos, pueden haber sido fabricados con material producido inadecuadamente. Bajo ciertas condiciones de conducciรณn, con el paso del tiempo, los brazos de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera afectados pueden separarse del conjunto de las ruedas delanteras, ocasionado una pรฉrdida de control del vehรญculo y aumentando el riesgo de un choque.

English version on front side Versiรณn en inglรฉs en el frente

 

ยฟQuรฉ harรก Toyota?

Cualquier concesionario Toyota autorizado reemplazarรก SIN CARGO los brazos de la suspensiรณn inferior delantera con unos nuevos.

Este es un Retiro de Seguridad importante.

El remedio tomarรก aproximadamente tres horas. Sin embargo, dependiendo de la programaciรณn de trabajo del concesionario, tal vez sea necesario tener disponible su vehรญculo por un plazo mรกs largo.

Si el vehรญculo estรก experimentando las condiciones descritas y no puede conducir el vehรญculo al concesionario, por favor comunรญquese con su concesionario Toyota autorizado local, el cual coordinarรก recoger el vehรญculo.

 

ยฟQuรฉ pasa si usted no es el propietario o el operador de este vehรญculo?

Si usted arrienda el vehรญculo, la ley federal requiere que todo arrendador de vehรญculo que reciba esta notificaciรณn del Retiro de Seguridad debe enviar una copia del aviso al arrendatario en menos de diez dรญas.

Si conoce al propietario u operador actual, sea tan amable de enviarle esta carta.

Si quisiera actualizar la informaciรณn de propiedad o de contacto de su vehรญculo, por favor visite https://www.toyota.com/recall/update-info-toyota. Necesitarรก el nรบmero de identificaciรณn del vehรญculo (VIN) completo de 17 dรญgitos para ingresar la nueva informaciรณn.

Si cree que el concesionario o Toyota no ha cumplido o no ha podido arreglar el defecto en un plazo razonable o sin cargo, puede enviar una queja al Administrador, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590, o llamar a la lรญnea directa sin costo de los vehรญculos al 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), o visite https://www.safercar.gov.

Hemos enviado esta notificaciรณn con el interรฉs de que usted estรฉ continuamente satisfecho con nuestros productos.

Lamentamos sinceramente cualquier inconveniente que este problema le pudo haber ocasionado.

Muchas gracias por conducir un Toyota.

Atentamente,

Toyota Motor Sales, USA

20TA08

 


May 20, 2020 

DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT

  

  1. Vehicle Manufacturer Name:

Toyota Motor Corporation [โ€œTMCโ€]
1, Toyota-cho, Toyota-city, Aichi-pref., 471-8571, Japan

 

Affiliated U.S. Sales Company:

Toyota Motor North America, Inc. [โ€œTMNAโ€]
6565 Headquarters Drive, Plano, TX 75024

 

Manufacturer of Front Lower Suspension Arms material

NIPPON STEEL CORPORATION
2-6-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8071, Japan
Phone: +81-3-6867-4111
Country of Origin: Japan

 

  1. Identification of Involved Vehicles and Affected Components:

Based on production records, we have determined the involved vehicle population as in the table below.

Make/Car LineModel YearManufacturerProduction Period
Toyota / RAV42019-2020TMCSeptember 25, 2019 through October 29, 2019
Toyota / RAV4 HV2019-2020TMCSeptember 25, 2019 through October 25, 2019

 

ApplicabilityPart NumberPart NameComponent Description
MY2019-2020 Toyota RAV4/RAV4 HV48068-42070ARM SUB-ASSY, SUSPENSION LWR RH W/BUSHFront Lower Suspension Arm
48069-42070ARM SUB-ASSY, SUSPENSION LWR LH W/BUSH

 

Note:

(1) Although the involved vehicles are within the above production period range, not all vehicles in this range were sold in the U.S.

(2) This issue only affects the vehicles listed above that were assembled with front lower suspension arm(s) that were potentially manufactured from a specific slab of steel material by a specific supplier under certain production conditions.  Other Toyota or Lexus vehicles sold in the U.S. are not equipped with front suspension lower arms that were potentially manufactured with the aforementioned material.

 

  1. Total Number of Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Toyota RAV4                 : 7,330
Toyota RAV4 HV          : 2,172
Total                               : 9,502

 

  1. Percentage of Vehicles Estimated to Actually Contain the Defect:

Unknown.  Toyota is unable to provide an estimate of the percentage of vehicles to actually contain the defect.  Whether a crack exists in any particular front lower suspension arm will depend on production variation.  In addition, whether a crack, that exists, will lead to a separation of the lower suspension arm while driving at higher speeds depends, in each case, on the depth of the crack on the front lower arm when manufactured and the driving patterns of the vehicle.

 

  1. Description of Problem:

The subject vehicles are equipped with front lower suspension arms connecting the front wheels to the vehicle front cross member.  Due to certain improper production conditions that occurred at the steel material supplier, a steel slab that was used to produce front lower suspension arms may have had cracks on some portions of its surface. If a vehicle with an affected front lower suspension arm(s) is driven frequently with rapid acceleration and deceleration over its lifetime, the cracks in the affected arms could propagate and the suspension arm can eventually separate from the front wheel assembly.  This may result in a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.

 

  1. Chronology of Principal Events:

October 2019 โ€“ November 2019

In October 2019, Toyota identified cracks on the surface of 5 lower suspension arms at one of its manufacturing facilities.  Toyota inspected approximately 4,680 lower suspension arms at two manufacturing facilities and found no additional arms with cracks.  The 5 parts that had cracks were sent to the steel supplier for investigation and the supplier identified that the maximum depth of the cracks on these parts was approximately 230ยตm.

Toyota conducted a statistical analysis based on that data and estimated the largest crack that could have potentially been produced to be approximately 500ยตm.  Toyota began conducting a large load induced test (to simulate striking a curb from the front and from the side) and a durability test (to simulate frequent driving with rapid acceleration and deceleration over a vehicle lifetime) with arms containing a 500ยตm crack that was artificially made.  The results of the testing showed that the cracks did not propagate into a fracture.

Since an oxidized material layer was found within the cracks on these arms, Toyota began investigating the process at the steel supplier.  Toyota suspected that the issue may have occurred during a process at the steel supplier because this oxidized material layer can only be generated when the material is exposed to air during high temperature conditions, which exists as part of the steel supplierโ€™s manufacturing process.

 

December 2019 to January 2020

Toyota conducted a review of the production records from the supplier and it was determined that a combination of various factors may have led to cracks developing on some portions of the surface of the steel slab that was used to make the aforementioned 5 arms where cracking was observed.  First, this steel slab had a slight curve and had been in contact with a cold slab when stacked while the slabs were conveyed between processes. This may have caused certain portions of the slab to be rapidly cooled.  After this slab was no longer in contact with a cold slab, it experienced higher levels of thermal recovery from internal heat in the steel material.  This may have changed the internal micro structure of the slab resulting in a decrease of material strength.  Then, during the next process, this slab experienced rapid heating due to the slab in front of it being shorter resulting in more exposure to the high temperatures in that process.  Based on the supplierโ€™s production records, it was determined that there was only one slab that was made with all of the factors mentioned above.  As a result, the supplier implemented a material handling policy that prohibited the contact of cold slabs with hot slabs during its material handling process.

During this timeframe, the supplier also inspected lower suspension arms that were sent to another Toyota plant.  These arms had been potentially produced from material from the same steel slab and had arrived at the production plant during this timeframe.  The inspection identified two additional lower arms containing surface cracks.  Those parts were sent to Japan for further investigation.

 

February 2020 to Early May 2020

Based on the supplierโ€™s further investigation of the two additional recovered arms with cracks, a maximum crack depth of approximately 580ยตm was observed on these parts.  Using this updated data, Toyota revised its statistical analysis and estimated that the largest crack that could have potentially been produced to be approximately 1,000ยตm.

To further investigate the potential field implications, Toyota conducted the aforementioned large load induced test and durability test again with arms with an artificially made 1,000ยตm crack.  While the large load test still showed that the crack did not propagate into a fracture, the crack did propagate into a fracture during the durability test.  Toyota determined that if a vehicle with an affected front lower suspension arm(s) is driven frequently with rapid acceleration and deceleration over its lifetime, the cracks in the affected arms could propagate and the arm can eventually separate from the front wheel assembly.  This may result in a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.

 

May 14, 2020

Based on the results of the above investigation, Toyota decided to conduct a voluntary safety recall campaign for the vehicles identified above.

As of May 14, 2020, based on a diligent review of records, Toyotaโ€™s best engineering judgement is that there are no Toyota Field Technical Reports and warranty claims that have been received from U.S. sources that relate or may relate to this condition and which were considered in the decision to submit this report.

 

  1. Description of Corrective Repair Action:

All known owners of the subject vehicles will be notified by first class mail to return their vehicles to a Toyota dealer.  For all involved vehicles, Toyota dealers will replace both front lower suspension arms with new ones free of charge.

 

Reimbursement Plan for pre-notification remedies

As the owner notification letters will be mailed out well within the active period of the Toyota New Vehicle Limited Warranty (โ€œWarrantyโ€), all involved vehicle owners for this recall would have been provided a repair at no cost under Toyotaโ€™s Warranty.

 

  1. Recall Schedule:

Notifications to owners of the affected vehicles will occur by July 19, 2020.  A copy of the draft owner notification will be submitted as soon as it is available.

 

  1. Distributor/Dealer Notification Schedule:

Notifications to distributors/dealers will be sent by May 20, 2020.  Copies of dealer communications will be submitted as they are issued.

 

  1. Manufacturerโ€™s Campaign Number:

[Interim / Remedy] 20TB08 / 20TA08

 



4 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKEMODELYEAR
TOYOTARAV42019-2020
TOYOTARAV4 HYBRID2019-2020

 


10 Associated Documents

Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-20V286-9334.PDF 215.703KB

 


Part 573 – Defect Information Report

RMISC-20V286-9998.pdf 33.93KB

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-20V286-7987.pdf 171.151KB

 


ISSUED Interim Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RIONL-20V286-0959.pdf 366.862KB

 


Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2020-4

RCLQRT-20V286-4799.PDF 211.267KB

 


Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2020-3

RCLQRT-20V286-5761.PDF 211.16KB

 


Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-20V286-3102.pdf 1138.461KB

 


Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-20V286-5966.pdf 1421.936KB

 


ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RCONL-20V286-0018.pdf 354.441KB

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc) – July 23, 2020 SAFETY RECALL 20TA08 (Remedy Notice)

RCMN-20V286-4079.pdf 851.743KB

 


Latest Recalls Documents

https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=20V286&docType=RCL

 


 

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