Toyota is recalling 1.53 million vehicles worldwide for a potential brake fluid leak. The voluntary recall affects about 740,000 vehicles in the U.S., including the 2005 – 2006 Toyota Avalon, 2004 – 2006 Toyota Highlander (excluding hybrid), 2004 – 2006 Lexus RX330, 2006 Lexus GS300, 2006 IS250 and 2006 IS350.
Toyota said in a statement that a small amount of brake fluid could slowly leak from the brake master cylinder, resulting in the brake warning light to come on. If the brake warning light is on and the vehicle continues to be driven without refilling the master cylinder brake fluid reservoir, the driver will begin to notice a spongy or soft brake pedal feel and braking performance may gradually decline, the automaker said.
Toyota Avalon sedans from the 2005 and 2006 model years are included in the voluntary recall.
No accidents have been reported from the potential problem, Toyota spokesman Paul Nolasco told the Associated Press.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by first class mail beginning in early November 2010. Toyota and Lexus dealers will replace the brake master cylinder cup with a newly designed one free of charge to owners.
Toyota’s October incentives feature 0 percent auto loan rates with no payments for 90 days and no down payment. Toyota is also offering three-year lease incentives with payments ranging from $119 to $329 on nine models in October. You’ll need anywhere from $2,198 to $3,704 at lease signing, depending on the vehicle.
Toyota recently made its two-year complementary maintenance program standard for all new Toyota and Scion models. You’ll get a coupon book for all scheduled maintenance, which includes things like oil changes and tire rotations, but doesn’t cover things like brake pads and wiper blades.
