Toyota Owners ~ This Could Save Your Life

The recent Toyota recall for accelerator problems is massive.

Some owners are not sure if their cars are included or not. In the past recalls have occurred in many cars and models. A recall is usually only good for one repair. In other words if the problem re-appears the car company generally will not fix it again.

• Several Chevrolet recalls come to mind. Our Chevy Silverado truck had a recall for a "hard" or sticking gas pedal. It was fixed by Chevy only to return a couple of years later. The second malfunction is not covered.

The Toyota recall is very scary. Most drivers will panic if the accelerator becomes stuck and they cannot slow down the car.

• Please review these steps and memorize them. Discuss them with every driver in your household especially young or inexperienced drivers.

IN THE EVENT YOUR ACCELERATOR STICKS
As soon as you detect any abnormal acceleration - do not wait - take immediate evasive action

• Remain calm

• Do not slam on your brakes!!!!

• Do not shut your engine off!!!!

• Shift your transmission into neutral Your car can no longer gain speed as the power has been disabled to the wheels.

• Turn on your 4 way flashers or hazard lights

If you experienced an accelertion abnormality you should still be able to use your foot brake to slow your car and stop it once it is in neutral.

IN THE EVENT OF BRAKE FAILURE

• Do not shut the engine off!!!!

• Shift into neutral

• Engage 4 way flashers

• Try to apply your parking brake gently

The easiest parking brake to use is a hand or lever brake.

• Apply firmly but slowly.

• Don't jerk it all the way on in one motion.

• Increase pressure as the car begins to slow down.
  

• Look for a parking lot or a place to safely coast into or stop.

The most important thing - do not panic - in either event get the car in neutral fast.

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