Toyota Phl recalls 3 vehicle models

MANILA, Philippines - The local unit of Japanese car maker Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling a total of 50,260 units of the Innova, Fortuner and Hilux models to replace a faulty spiral cable.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp.(TMPC) vice president for corporate affairs Rommel Gutierrez said in a text message yesterday vehicles affected by the recall are the following: 47,012 units of the Innova (2004 to 2009); 2,659 units of the Fortuner (2004 to 2010); and 589 units of the Hilux (2004 to 2010).

The move is part of a global recall of more than six million Toyota vehicles worldwide due to defects involving different parts.

For vehicles sold in the Philippines, the shape and location of the spiral cable retainers may cause some connectivity loss related to the air bag system.

Due to the connectivity loss, the driver side air bag may not deploy in the event of a crash.

While there have been no incidents reported related to the condition, TMPC is undertaking the recall to ensure the safety of vehicle users.

“In line with Toyota’s firm commitment on product safety and quality, TMPC will issue a Special Service Campaign on the affected models. We value our customers’ safety, thus our company decided to hold such campaign to ease their concerns on this issue,” Gutierrez said.

Authorized dealers would replace the spiral cable assembly free of charge.

TMPC would notify all owners of the affected units advising them to set appointments with their respective dealerships.

For more information or other inquiries, owners of vehicles affected by the recall may contact the Toyota Customer Assistance Center at (02) 819 2912 or visit the nearest Toyota dealership.

TMPC, the country’s top automotive seller, aims to sell more than 90,000 units this year.

The firm’s sales rose 34 percent to 22,828 units in the first quarter compared to 17,061 units in the same period last year.

In 2013, TMPC’s total vehicle sales reached an all-time high of 75,587 units.