Approximately 44,000 model-year 2020 Lexus ES 300h sedans; model-year 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid, Camry and Camry Hybrid sedans; and model-year 2019-20 Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid SUVs are being recalled because an engine block was manufactured incorrectly, which may cause coolant to leak during normal engine operation. This could lead to engine noise, engine smoke, warning lights, an audible chime sounding, and/or in some cases, engine overheating and internal mechanical engine damage. If the leak occurs in a conventional gasoline vehicle, the vehicle could stall while driving at higher speeds without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. In both hybrid and gasoline vehicles, engine damage from a coolant leak could cause engine oil to leak, which in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Lexus manufacturer Toyota will begin notifying owners in early April. Owners can call Toyota at 800-331-4331, Lexus at 800-255-3987 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.
To remedy the issue, dealers will inspect the engine block casting serial number and, if it’s determined to be involved, will replace the engine and engine block with a new one.
Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.
Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.
