Massachusetts Personal Injury Lawyer Blog

Lexus Recall Ordered Due to Fuel System Defect

Toyota recently issued a recall on approximately 214,570 Lexus vehicles due to a fuel system defect in the fuel lines that could lead to a fire. 

The following passenger vehicle models from years 2006-2008 are affected:

• Lexus GS sedan
• Lexus IS sedan
• Lexus LS sedan 

If you own a Lexus affected by the recall, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic or Lexus dealer where they can repair the defect, if necessary. 

Toyota's released statement on the defect is as follows: 

"Ethanol fuels with a low moisture content will corrode the internal surface of the fuel rails. As this condition progresses, the engine malfunction indicator light may illuminate. Over time, the corrosion may create a pinhole resulting in fuel leakage. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire. Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel delivery pipes free of charge."

According to U.S. News & World Report, "There have been no reported vehicle fires or injuries associated with the defect. In many cases, a dashboard indicator lamp would light to signal a malfunction if a fuel leak were to develop -- but Lexus has found cases where a fuel leak was present but the light did not illuminate."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration maintains a databank so that consumers can regularly check for recalls on vehicles, equipment, child restraints and tires. 

Fuel system defects are serious and can lead to post-collision fuel-fed fires.  If you, or someone you love, has been injured in a post-collision fire, contact us today for a FREE evaluation of your case.