Family Life

11.25.09 | FL News Team

Toyota is detailing how it will fix a problem in some Toyota and Lexus models. The problem is that gas pedals can become entrapped in floor mats, leading to sudden acceleration. The car maker says the shape of the accelerator pedal will be redesigned. The shape of the floor under the mat will also be reshaped. Another measure to correct the hazard related to the floor mats will be implemented in Toyota Camrys and Avalons and in the Lexus ES 350. Those models will have a brake override system installed that will cut the engine off in case of application of both the brake and accelerator.

 Toyota says the corrective procedures will take place on a rolling schedule next year. Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by mail by the end of this year. Until those measures are taken, drivers are asked to take out any removeable driver's floor mat and not to replace them. The affected models also include certain makes of the Toyota Prius, Tacoma and Tundra.