With all the media hype surrounding Toyota's recall of millions of vehicles to repair faulty gas pedals, you'd think the simple act of driving one of these cars or trucks is an act that should only be undertaken by a Hollywood leading man with the steeliest of nerves and coolest of heads.
Naturally, the real-life situation is a good bit less dramatic. Of the 2.3 million cars and trucks involved in the recall, there have been only about 60 reports of unintended acceleration. We're not great at math, but we know enough to figure out that that makes the odds of something like this happening to you pretty remote, despite the frenzy many reporters are trying to whip up.
Still, we suggest erring on the side of caution. If you own one of the affected models and can manage without it for a week or so, then by all means park it and contact your local Toyota dealer for repairs. If you have to drive your car, read this short summary of simple steps you can take on the off-chance you find yourself behind the wheel with the engine racing out of control.
The larger issue this whole episode brings to mind is how an average owner can find out whether their car--regardless of the make or model--is the subject of a recall. Fortunately, the nice folks at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have put together a handy website that offers details on all current recalls. Even if you're not a Toyota owner, we'd encourage you to check it out--you might be surprised what you'll find.
Leave a comment