Toyota has announced it is issuing a voluntary recall notice on its MY 2005-2008 Corolla sedans and Matrix hatchback vehicles.

According to the automaker, it has received reports that some Engine Control Modules (ECM) in the vehicles may have been "improperly manufactured". Such modules may cause the "Check Engine" light to be lit; affecting shifting, or prevent the engine from starting. There is even the possibility the engine could stall while the Corolla or Matrix is in motion.

“This recall is an example of our commitment to standing by our products and being responsive to our customers," Steve St. Angelo, Toyota chief quality officer for North America, said in a statement. "Our goal is to help ensure that Toyota drivers are completely confident in the safety and reliability of their vehicles.”

Full press release can be found below. Approximately 1.13 million vehicles may have been affected by the recall. Toyota will replace the ECM for free.


Toyota Announces Voluntary Safety Recall on Certain Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix Models

TORRANCE, Calif., August 26, 2010 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 1.13 million 2005-2008 Model Year Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles sold in North America to address some Engine Control Modules (ECM) that may have been improperly manufactured. No other Toyota or Lexus vehicles are involved in this recall.
 
On vehicles equipped with the 1ZZ-FE engine and two-wheel drive, there is a possibility that a crack may develop at certain solder points or on the electronic component used to protect circuits against excessive voltage (varistor), on the ECM’s circuit board. In most cases, if a crack occurs at certain solder points or on certain varistors, the check engine may illuminate, harsh shifting could result, or the engine may not start. In limited instances, if cracking occurs on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven.
 
There are three unconfirmed accidents alleged to be related to this condition, one of which reported a minor injury.
 
Steve St. Angelo, Toyota chief quality officer for North America, said, “This recall is an example of our commitment to standing by our products and being responsive to our customers. Our goal is to help ensure that Toyota drivers are completely confident in the safety and reliability of their vehicles.”
 
As part of the recall, the ECM on involved vehicles will be replaced at no charge to the owner. Beginning in mid-September 2010, Toyota will mail an interim notification to advise owners of this recall and the fact that they will receive a future notice when parts become available to complete the repairs. Owners who have previously paid for replacement of the ECM to address this specific condition should refer to the owner letter for reimbursement consideration instructions.
 
Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Saturday 7 a.m. through 4 p.m. PDT.


Source: Toyota