According to an online report, a class-action lawsuit filed last month by Toyota truck owners focuses on a defect in Tundra engines, some manufactured in Huntsville.
Details of the class-action lawsuit
Filed in U.S. District Court in Vermont, the lawsuit involves three plaintiffs against Toyota Motor North America.
It stems from a May 2024 recall affecting 2022-2023 Tundras, Tundra hybrids, and Lexus LX models. The issue centers on vehicles equipped with the V35A engine, which Toyota has acknowledged suffers from a “serious defect” due to manufacturing debris.
The engine defect and recall scope
The defect can cause stalling, delayed acceleration followed by surging, or “engine knocking” and rough running.
These issues significantly increase the risk of crashes and may result in catastrophic engine failure. Toyota has offered free engine replacements for affected vehicles. However, the recall involves over 102,000 vehicles, including 98,568 Tundras, which has created significant repair backlogs at dealerships.
Concerns over hybrid models
Hybrids with a Hybrid powertrain system were excluded from the recall. These vehicles can maintain limited motive power despite the defect, with drivers receiving continuous warnings.
Plaintiffs argue this leaves hybrid owners without adequate solutions, while Toyota has yet to provide a definitive timeline for fixing the broader issue.
Impact on Toyota’s Huntsville plant
Toyota’s Huntsville engine plant, operational since 2003, produces engines for models like the Tundra, RAV4, Corolla, Highlander, and Tacoma.
This lawsuit raises questions about quality control in a facility critical to Toyota’s U.S. operations. Plaintiffs seek compensatory damages, restitution, and other measures, citing the risks of driving vehicles with unresolved safety concerns.
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