Floor mat problem? A personal loan will get you some super glue. (Photo: archie99.wordpress.com)

When the world’s largest automaker recalls 3.8 million cars, you know something serious is going on. That’s exactly what the recent Toyota recall has done because of floor mats that present a risk of causing accidents. Removing the mats and obtaining new ones (even if you need a personal loan to help you get just the right ones) present a much better course of action than endangering lives.

What models are affected by the Toyota recall?

Toyota:

• 2007-2010 Camry
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2004-2009 Prius
• 2005-2010 Tacoma
• 2007-2010 Tundra

Lexus:

• 2007-2010 ES 350
• 2006-2010 IS 250 and IS 350

What problem do the floor mats cause?

Toyota and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have released a statement in which drivers are cautioned that the removable floor mats can easily shift while the vehicle is in motion, presenting a scenario where they can become stuck on the accelerator pedal. It can literally stick the accelerator to the floor, and in the case of at least one incident, has led to fatalities.

It could “cause a crash, serious injury or death”

Toyota was very clear of this in their statement regarding an open accelerator caused by a removable floor mat. Interestingly, this problem led to a ban of all-weather mats back in 2007, but the NHTSA noted that reports of rapid acceleration are still occurring “after the release of the pedal.” Is there another problem Toyota or Lexus owners should be concerned about?

A fatal crash in California got the Toyota recall rolling

According to CNN, investigators discovered that the fatal crash of a 2009 Lexus ES350 loaned to a family by a San Diego Lexus dealer “could have been caused” by slippage of the all-weather floor mat into the vicinity of the accelerator pedal.

Ray LaHood of the NHTSA rightly calls this “an urgent matter.” He continues in a statement to proclaim that “For everyone’s sake, we strongly urge owners of these vehicles to remove mats or other obstacles that could lead to unintended acceleration.”

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Take action immediately

If you are a Toyota or Lexus owner and your vehicle is one of the ones listed above, remove the floor mats immediately and contact your dealership for further information. If a replacement program exists, take advantage. If you must buy your own in order to protect the upholstery, do so. If you’re short of cash, get a personal loan – don’t risk your life in assuming your mats won’t be a problem.

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