Toyota is fixing the pumps that cool the hybrid system in 650,000 Prius cars — the Japanese automaker’s prized green vehicle — but is adamant the repair being carried out worldwide isn’t another recall.
Toyota Motor Corp spokesman Paul Nolasco said yesterday the coolant pump in Prius cars for model years 2004 through to 2007 is being replaced because it doesn’t work properly.
However, the Japanese automaker is calling the move a “customer satisfaction campaign” because the problem doesn’t warrant a recall under regulations where the vehicles have been sold, according to Nolasco.
PHOTO: EPA
The car’s hybrid system switches off when the problem occurs and the vehicle’s regular gasoline engine takes over, he said.
Of the Prius cars that need fixing, 390,000 are in North America and 180,000 are in Japan. The problem affects 70,000 Prius vehicles in Europe.
The problem with the Prius, which is closely associated with Toyota’s reputation for innovative technology, is the latest embarrassment for the world’s No. 1 automaker, which has recalled more than 11 million vehicles globally since late last year.
The massive recalls cover a wide range of models for various problems, including faulty gas pedals, floor mats that can trap accelerators, defective braking and stalling engines.
The popularity of the Prius in Japan had been one bright spot in Toyota’s performance, although worries remain that its image in North America has not recovered from the recalls. The hybrid was Japan’s best-selling car for the 18th straight month in October, even after green vehicle subsidies ended.
Toyota said there have been no reports of accidents related to the coolant problem, but 300 problems were reported in Japan, and 28 outside of Japan. It was not immediately clear when owners were being notified to bring their cars in for repair.
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