New York — Toyota Motor Corp., A settlement potentially worth $150 million is reached to resolve a US class-action lawsuit involving the recall of approximately 3.36 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles whose faulty fuel pumps could have stalled the engines.
The preliminary settlement was reached Wednesday night in federal court in Brooklyn. This requires the approval of the judge.
The agreement covers owners and lessees of dozens of Toyota and Lexus vehicle models manufactured in the 2013 to 2020 model years and equipped with Denso low-pressure fuel pumps.
Drivers complained that faulty pumps caused vehicles to “run ugly,” lose engine power, and stall, especially at low speeds.
Toyota said the problems were reported more frequently in the southern US, where the weather tends to be warmer.
There were over 5.8 million vehicles worldwide Recalled in 2020 and 2021 over the blame.
To see all of the recall coverage of Automotive News, click here,
Under the agreement, Toyota will extend the warranty for fuel pumps to 15 years or 150,000 miles, whichever is earlier, and offer drivers a complimentary loaner vehicle and towing option for repairs.
Drivers may also seek reimbursement for prior repairs, including for loaner vehicles and towing.
TOYOTA AND ITS AFFILIATED SUPPLIERS Denso International America Inc.., who was also a defendant, did not admit wrongdoing in agreeing to the settlement.
“We are delighted that we have resolved this issue in a way that demonstrates our commitment to providing customers with a great ownership experience,” Toyota said in a statement.
De Miles, a partner at the Beasley Allen law firm representing the plaintiffs, said the settlement provides an “absolute remedy” for drivers.
“The settlement value is still being analyzed by experts, but based on preliminary analysis we fully expect the settlement value to exceed $150 million,” he said in an email.
The law firm representing the plaintiffs can seek up to $28.5 million in legal fees to help reach a settlement.