Toyota is recalling approximately 4,000 2013-’14 Toyota Tacoma pickup trucks in the U.S. because a problem with engine valve springs could lead to engine failure, the automaker said.
The U.S. Tacoma recall is part of a larger, global recall of 33,000 Toyota vehicles, including the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Crown Comfort.
The U.S. recall involves only Tacoma pickups with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine.
“In the involved vehicles, engine valve springs made by one of two suppliers could develop cracks and break over time due to improper maintenance of manufacturing equipment used to make the part,” said Toyota in a statement. “If this occurs, abnormal noise and rough engine performance can be noticed. In some cases, the engine could fail and stop while the vehicle is being driven.”
Toyota spokesman John Hanson told Edmunds that there has been one report of a crash linked to the recall, but that it happened in Japan. Hanson said it was safe for U.S. consumers to continue driving the truck before repairs are made.
Toyota dealers will install different valve springs. The recall is expected to begin in December, although an exact date has not been set. No information about the recall has been posted on the Web site of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which oversees vehicle recalls in the U.S. Owners of the affected Tacomas can contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.