Explaining the Toyota Floormat Recall

Toyota is in the process of recalling nearly 4 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles for an issue with their floormats. A number of complaints have shown that the floormats can creep forward and get stuck under the accelerator, which can lead to unintended and potentially dangerous acceleration. (Yes, we know the recall is not official yet, but for clarity we will call it a recall).

We had a 2010 Toyota Prius in our test fleet this week and noted its floormat set-up is similar to Toyotas included in the recall. The 2010 Prius is not included in the current recall, but the 2005-2009 Prius is. Toyota spokesman John Hanson said that the 2010 model uses the same type of floormats as the older Prius, as do many other current Toyota models not included in the recall.

The 2010 Prius, which has only been on sale for a relatively short time, is not included in the recall at this time because there have been no specific complaints filed with either Toyota or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about the floormats, Hanson said. However, when the recall is finalized, which could be as early as next week, the 2010 Prius may be included, he said. Other models haven’t been included based solely on the lack of complaints. A number of factors including pedal placement and keyless ignition in addition to the floormats may have contributed to the complaints against the recalled cars.

So, what is it about these floormats that’s causing the problem?

3.8 Million Toyota, Lexus Recalled Over Floor Mats

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration issued a wide-ranging announcement late today that Toyota will recall 3.8 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles. The recall stems from faulty floormats that can become stuck under the accelerator pedal causing unexpected acceleration. The defect is suspected to be the cause of one recent fatal accident.

The recall includes the following models:

• 2007-2010 Camry
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2004-2009 Prius
• 2005-2010 Tacoma
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2007-2010 ES 350
• 2006-2010 IS 250 and IS350

NHTSA suggests all owners remove the driver-side floormat from these cars immediately and not replace them with anything. Toyota has released a warning for owners including steps to take in case of an accelerator issue. We've posted the notice below.

2009 Toyota Avalon Video

The Toyota Avalon is a big, roomy sedan that’s gone without a redesign since 2005. Cars.com reviewer Kelsey Mays notes that the Avalon’s age has begun to show, but that shouldn’t necessarily disqualify it from consideration. Take a look at the Avalon, inside and out, while Mays explains what still works for the car, and what’s in dire need of an update.

Cars.com Reviews the 2009 Toyota Avalon

Cars.com reviewer Kelsey Mays admits up front that it’s very possible he’s a 75-year-old man trapped in the body of a young car reviewer. He also admits that he’s doing nothing to dissuade friends and co-workers from this idea by copping to how much he likes the Toyota Avalon. Does he make a few good points about the Avalon, or is his endorsement strictly a byproduct of his Benjamin Button syndrome? Read Mays’ full review to find out.

2009 Toyota Avalon Review