According to the USA Today (Published 09/26/2013, Woodyard, Chris, Web), Toyota is recalling 615,000 older Sienna minivans to fix a transmission problem that could potentially cause them to shift out of the park position without a driver pushing the brake pedal and start rolling. The recall covers Siennas from model years 2004 and 2005 and 2007 to 2009. The issue centers on the shift lever assembly. The problem has been blamed for 21 accidents, causing two minor injuries and no deaths. Toyota says that the shift lock solenoid, an electrical component, could be become damaged. If it is, there is a “possibility” that the shift lever could be moved out of the “P” position without the driver depressing the brake pedal, causing the vehicle to roll away. Spokeswoman Cindy Knight emphasizes, however, that the vehicle cannot shift out of park on its own. The shift lever still needs to be pushed.
Once they are officially notified, customers who bring their cars back to the dealers will have them fitted with new solenoids to make sure the problem doesn’t occur. Minivan owners should consult with an authorized dealer for more information concerning the recall.
Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C., serves the injured, and their families, in Reading, PA, Pottsville, PA, and throughout Eastern and Central Pennsylvania. The lawyers there handle personal injury claims, including automobile claims, as well as claims for injuries or death caused by unsafe, defective and hazardous products.