100,000 Toyota Tundras and Lexus LXs will have engines replaced due to recall

In June 2024, Toyota issued a recall for approximately 102,000 units of the Tundra and the Lexus LX due to an engine-related problem in vehicles built during the 2022 and 2023 model years. At the time of the recall announcement, the company did not have a fix for the issue but has since decided to replace the engine in affected vehicles.

The recall, assigned number 24V-381 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), specifically applies to non-electrified variants of the Tundra that are equipped with a twin-turbocharged, 3.4-liter V6 engine. The optional hybrid system available on some models is not part of the recall. The current LX model only comes with a six-cylinder engine, which is not affected by the recall.

The problem identified by Toyota is related to potential machining debris that may not have been properly cleared during the engine production process. This issue can lead to main bearing failure and various symptoms such as engine knocking, rough running, failure to start, or engine stalling. The potential for engine stalling increases the risk of an accident, although the company has not reported any accidents or injuries related to this problem.

Numerous Tundra owners have reported similar issues to the NHTSA, describing symptoms such as pulsing/mechanical noises from the engine before it shuts off, inability to restart the engine after it cuts off, and the illumination of the “check engine” light before engine failure. However, no engine problems have been reported for the Lexus LX.

To address the problem, Toyota has decided to replace the engine in affected vehicles. The company plans to notify customers of the recall by mail before the end of July 2024. The Tundra models included in the recall were manufactured between November 2, 2021, and February 13, 2023, while the affected Lexus LX vehicles were produced from July 30, 2021, to November 25, 2022.

Overall, the recall aims to address a potentially serious issue with the engine in certain Tundra and Lexus LX vehicles to ensure the safety and reliability of these models on the road.

Signs of the Problem
Some Tundra owners have reported experiencing symptoms such as pulsing/mechanical noises from the engine, engine shut-off during driving, and failure to restart the engine once it has stopped. Additionally, the illumination of the “check engine” light has been noted as a precursor to engine failure in some cases.

Scope of the Recall
The recall issued by Toyota affects approximately 102,000 units of the Tundra and the Lexus LX that were manufactured during the 2022 and 2023 model years. The affected Tundra models feature a twin-turbocharged, 3.4-liter V6 engine, while the Lexus LX comes with a six-cylinder engine, with the optional hybrid system not included in the recall.

Consequences of Ignoring the Issue
The engine-related problem identified by Toyota can lead to main bearing failure, causing symptoms like engine knocking, rough running, inability to start, and engine stalling. Engine stalling can pose a safety risk and increase the likelihood of an accident, emphasizing the need for prompt resolution of the problem.

Toyota’s Solution to the Problem
In response to the engine-related issue, Toyota has opted to replace the engine in affected Tundra and Lexus LX vehicles. The company plans to notify customers of the recall through mail by the end of July 2024, outlining the specific manufacturing dates for the affected models to facilitate identification and resolution of the problem.

Ensuring Vehicle Safety and Reliability
By taking proactive measures to address the engine problem in certain Tundra and Lexus LX vehicles, Toyota aims to uphold the safety and reliability of these models for customers. The recall demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing potential issues promptly to maintain the quality and performance of its vehicles.

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