Toyota is initiating a recall of over 100,000 Tundra pickups and Lexus LX SUVs from the current generation in North America due to concerns that loose machining debris may be present within their engines. This recall affects certain 2022-2023 Tundra and LX models that utilize the new V6 twin-turbo engine, which has faced criticism regarding its reliability when compared to the former naturally aspirated V8 engines.
According to Toyota, the debris poses risks that could result in engine knocking, rough performance, failure to start, or even sudden power loss while driving at higher speeds, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. The recall affects about 102,000 Tundra trucks and Lexus LX600 SUVs outfitted with the V35A-FTS engine. Only models from the 2022-2023 lineup, featuring the gas-only 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, are included in this voluntary recall across North America. However, hybrid iForce Max pickups are exempt from this recall.
The manufacturer indicates that the recall concerns vehicles “with a specific V35A engine featuring crankshaft main bearings that allow the crankshaft to rotate within the engine assembly while in operation. During a particular period of production, engine machining debris of certain sizes and quantities may not have been removed during manufacturing, which could have contaminated the engine assembly during production.”
Toyota further elaborates, stating that “in these engines, the pressure on the main bearings due to the engine’s design might lead to situations where machining debris adheres to the bearings. If the engine continues to operate under higher loads over time, it could result in bearing failure. This may manifest as engine knocking, rough operation, failure to start, or engine stalling. An engine stall while driving could lead to a complete loss of power.”
While the engine’s high internal pressure seems to contribute to these issues, the primary concern appears to be the manufacturing defects affecting engines produced during a specific timeframe. Toyota is still working on identifying a solution for the engine debris issue. Owners of the implicated Toyota and Lexus vehicles will receive recall notifications, along with information about the remedies, by the end of July 2024.
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