Toyota recalls 83,406 cars in China

Shanghai, October 30 (Gasgoo.com) Tianjin FAW Toyota Motor Co, Toyota Motor's car venture in northern China, has announced to recall 83,406 locally made sedans due to defects in transmission systems starting next Monday, Xinhua news agency said on Wednesday.

The recall involves 8,640 Vios units made between February 14, 2008, and June 10, 2008, 31,104 Huaguan cars made between June 1, 2007, and June 10, 2008 and 43,662 Corolla models produced between May 17, 2007, and June 10, 2008. All cars are equipped with manual transmissions, Xinhua said.

The defect is due to the looseness of screw nets connecting the gearshift rod and shift lever, which may cause the transmission slipping out of the gear. In rare instances, this condition may lead to gear breakage and possible locking of the vehicle's transmission, creating a potential safety hazard.

Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co, Totota's other joint venture in South China, is recalling 270 Yaris cars because of a similar defect as of the same day, The recall involves 270 Yaris sedans made by the manufacturer between May 15, 2008, and June 5, 2008. No casualties or injuries linked with the transmission defects have been reported in both cases.