Top Class Actions’s website and social media posts use affiliate links. If you make a purchase using such links, we may receive a commission, but it will not result in any additional charges to you. Please review our Affiliate Link Disclosure for more information.
A car dealer in California is speaking up about a Toyota hybrid brake problem, claiming that the problem is a defect causing consumers a hassle. It’s not just the dealership questioning whether the issue is indicative of a broader problem across the hybrid Toyota fleet.
Federal traffic safety officials are reportedly investigating whether or not there is a defect after a franchise dealer in Southern California requested a safety recall in 2019. According to the Daily News, the president and owner of that dealership submitted a defect petition to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in September.
The issue has been connected to at least one devastating car crash in which a Prius owner claimed that his brakes failed and caused an accident. The dealer has reportedly called for several different models to be investigated for the Toyota hybrid brake defect, including the 2012-2015 Prius Plug-in Hybrid, the 2010-2015 Prius Liftback, the 2013-2015 Avalon Hybrid, and the 2012-2014 Camry Hybrid.
The suspected Toyota hybrid brake defect is connected to the brake booster pump assembly and the master cylinder. This problem, according to the dealer, should be covered under two popular Toyota warranty extension programs. That warranty, however, requires that the product fail before it can be fully repaired, a fact that the dealer claims puts drivers in harm’s way in the interim.
Signs of Brake Problems
Unfortunately, too many people find out about serious brake defects in the midst of a car accident. There are a few warning signs that any driver should watch out for that could indicate more severe tire issues.
According to the Firestone blog, some of the most common problems include a burning smell while you drive, a change in the performance of the brakes, or any strange noises with your brakes, it’s time to get the car checked out by a mechanic.
A relatively new car or set of brakes makes it easy to overlook the possibility of serious brake issues. Les Schwab says that most people know when their brakes are due for replacement, there is a chance the brakes could malfunction, but it can come as a shock when brake issues are caused by a defect in the product.
While some brake issues are related to age or poor maintenance, a whole other problem exists when the issues are due to a manufacturer defect. A consumer might assume their situation was a one-off until they read about other drivers having a similar issue with their brakes.
When a manufacturer is responsible for problems with brakes, this information can be used to file a lawsuit against the company that made the brakes. If you had to deal with Toyota hybrid brake defects, you’re not alone and you might be able to join with other consumers in a class action lawsuit.
If you were already in an accident because of what you suspect to be a brake defect, don’t wait to talk to an attorney — you could be eligible for compensation. An attorney you find through Top Class Actions can help you to determine your rights in relation to a Toyota hybrid brake defect.
One thought on NHTSA Reviewing Toyota Hybrid Brake Defect Claims
Our 2014 toyota hybrid camery having master cylinder brake malfunctioning, we haven’t got any recall notice on brakes, technicians are charging ridiculous prices for just diagnose only first and saying its not covered under warranty. We are located in Canada BC.