Toyota is recalling 369,000 vehicles due to faulty hybrid systems that can malfunction, causing them to abruptly stop while driving.
According to Edmunds.com, this includes 2006 to 2010 models of Toyota Highlander Hybrids, Lexus RX 400h vehicles, and the 2006 to 2011 Lexus IS 350, IS 350C and GS 350 models in a separate recall.
"Transistors within the hybrid system's inverter assembly can experience heat damage due to variations in characteristics of the transistors' parallel circuits," Toyota said in a statement. "Should this occur, various warning lights on the instrument panel will illuminate, and in most cases, the vehicle will enter 'limp home mode.' In limited instances, the hybrid system will shut down and resulting (sic) in the vehicle stopping while the vehicle is being driven.
"Bolts used to secure the variable valve timing control device can become loose, causing the vehicle to stop while being driven. Early warning for this condition can be an abnormal noise just after start-up," Toyota said according to Edmunds.
The problem lies with the models' hybrid system inverter assemblys that may cause the hybrid system to shut down and result in the vehicle stopping while being driven. Variable timing devices on the Lexus IS 350, IS 350C, and GS 350 can become loose causing the vehicle to come to a stop while the vehicle is being driven.
Drivers with vehicles named in the recall are advised to bring their cars to the dealerships immediately. There are no injuries, crashes, or fatalities connected with the recalls.
The company will begin the recall in mid-September to replace the intelligent power module within the inverter assembly in the Highlander Hybrid and Lexus RX 400h, and the variable valve timing control device in the Lexus IS 350, IS 350C and GS 350.
Owners can call Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
