Engine problem prompts US Toyota Corolla recall

Troubled Japanese car maker Toyota is to conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 1.13 million 2005-2008 Model Year Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles sold in the US to address issues with some Engine Control Modules (ECM) that may have been improperly manufactured.

The company said that on vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, there is a possibility that a crack may develop at certain solder points or on the varistor used to protect circuits against excessive voltage on the ECM’s circuit board.

In most cases, if a crack occurs at certain solder points or on certain varistors, the ’check engine’ light may illuminate, harsh shifting could result, or the engine may not start. In limited instances, if cracking occurs on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.

The company said that there were three unconfirmed accidents alleged to be related to the condition, one of which caused a minor injury.

As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced at no charge to the owner. The recall does not affect any Toyota vehicles sold in the UK.