Toyota Issues a Paint Recall for the Highlander Model

AvatarByCarl Frisch

In October 2019, Toyota issued a recall for a range of vehicles, including the Highlander, due to an issue with their paint. The paint on the affected vehicles may not be properly adhered to the vehicle body, leading to premature corrosion in some cases. This corrosion could lead to rusting of the bodywork and other components, which can impair the safety and performance of the vehicle. As a result, all affected Highlander models will need to have their paint inspected and repaired at no cost to owners. Toyota will contact all registered owners of affected vehicles and provide instructions on how to proceed.

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Introduction

Toyota recently announced a recall for the paint on certain models of the Highlander SUV. This recall affects approximately 5,000 vehicles worldwide, and includes models manufactured between 2011 and 2015. The paint on these vehicles is prone to fading and cracking, which can cause a decrease in vehicle value and increase the risk of corrosion. This issue has caused Toyota to issue a recall, offering free repairs to affected customers.

What is the Paint Defect?

The paint defect identified by Toyota is a phenomenon called ‘fading’ or ‘flaking’. This occurs when the clearcoat on the vehicle’s paintwork begins to crack or flake away from the basecoat underneath it. When this happens, it exposes the basecoat to air and water which can cause discoloration and rusting of the metal underneath.

Which Models are Affected?

The recall affects all Highlander models manufactured between 2011 and 2015. It does not affect other Toyota models such as RAV4 or Camry.

How Does the Recall Work?

Toyota has issued a recall for affected vehicles in order to repair any damage caused by this defect. Customers who have purchased an affected vehicle will be contacted via mail with further details regarding their options for repair. After receiving their notification letter, customers can take their car into any authorized Toyota dealership where technicians will assess the damage and recommend an appropriate solution.

Financial Impact on Owners

Owners of affected vehicles may experience a financial impact from this recall due to lost value in their cars or increased costs associated with repairs or replacement parts needed for repair work. The cost of these repairs may be covered by Toyota under warranty depending on when and where the vehicle was purchased; however, owners may also need to pay additional costs associated with labor if they choose not to use a dealership for repair work.

Safety Concerns for Owners

The fading of paintwork on vehicles can lead to corrosion of metals beneath it, which could cause structural damage over time if left unrepaired. This could lead to safety concerns such as reduced visibility due to rust on windows or decreased structural integrity due to weakened metal parts; both of which can affect driving safety significantly if left unaddressed.

Emotional Impact on Owners

The emotional impact experienced by owners of recalled vehicles can be significant due to decreased value in their cars or simply feeling let down by their purchase experience with Toyota. It is important for owners to remember that recalls are issued as an effort by manufacturers like Toyota to ensure that customer safety is taken seriously and that they are doing what they can do correct any issues that arise with their products as soon as possible.

Resources for Affected Owners

Owners who have been affected by this recall should contact customer service at 1-800-331-4331 with any questions or concerns they may have about their options for repair work or warranty coverage related to this issue.

Consumer Reports On Affected Models

Reviews and ratings from independent sources such as Consumer Reports may prove helpful in determining whether potential buyers should consider purchasing one of these recalled models.

Alternatives To Recalled Highlanders

Consumers looking for alternatives may want to consider other mid-sized SUVs from different manufacturers such as Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Volkswagen Tiguan etc.

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Legal Options For Affected Owners Affected owners may want to look into legal options if they feel that they have been wrongfully treated by Toyota in regards to this recall issue.

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FAQ & Answers

Q: What is the Toyota Paint Recall?
A: The Toyota Paint Recall was issued in 2020 due to a defect in the paint used on certain models of the Toyota Highlander. The defect caused the paint to prematurely chip and peel off of parts of the vehicle, resulting in cosmetic damage.

Q: What Highlander models are affected by the recall?
A: The recall affects 2020 model year Toyota Highlanders sold between March 2019 and May 2020.

Q: What are the possible causes of the paint defects?
A: Toyota has not identified any specific cause for the paint defects, though possible explanations include manufacturing errors, improper storage conditions, or exposure to incorrect cleaning agents.

Q: What steps has Toyota taken to resolve this issue?
A: Toyota has issued a recall for affected vehicles and offered free repair services for those covered by the recall. Customers may also be eligible for reimbursement if they have already paid for repairs related to this issue.

Q: What are some legal options available to affected owners?
A: Affected owners may consider filing a class action lawsuit against Toyota or other legal options such as seeking compensation through an arbitration process or filing a complaint with their state’s attorney general’s office.

In conclusion, the Toyota Highlander paint recall is an example of a company taking responsibility for its products and their safety. Even though the affected vehicles are relatively few, Toyota has taken the necessary steps to ensure that its customers remain safe. The recall process is simple and straightforward, making it easy for customers to get their vehicles fixed quickly and without hassle. The recall also serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing any safety concerns in a timely manner, and of how companies should prioritize customer safety above all else.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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