The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is launching a full scale investigation into the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla model after announcements from the company hinted at possible steering problems. The investigation could lead to the models’ recall, totalling almost 500,000 cars, which would add to the two million plus cars that have already been recalled by Toyota.
To help auto owners with a car on the Toyota Recall List, we’ve put together some tips for repairing your recalled Toyota.
4 Steps to Repair Your Recalled Toyota
Step 1 – Get the Information
Make sure your car is actually on the recall list. LendingTreeAutos.com lists them for you here. You can also visit Toyota’s official recall website here.
Step 2 – Contact Your Local Dealer
Contact your local Toyota dealer and schedule an appointment for immediate repair. Toyota stores around the country have begun making the necessary repairs, including fixing accelerators, floor mats, and other items that were cause for the recall. Most Toyota dealers have extended their store hours while some have pledged to remain open 24 hours a day until all the repairs are made. The only way to know for sure is to check in with the dealer nearest to you.
Step 3 – Check for Ancillary Vehicle Issues
Some of the issues cited in the recall may have caused ancillary problems with your vehicle. That is, your car may have more problems than what the dealer is willing to repair for free. In a few cases, owners of recalled cars were involved in accidents and their vehicle was badly damaged. Make sure your dealer knows all the issues you have been experiencing and find out your repair options for those items, as well.
Step 4 – Contact Your Insurance Company
If your car requires additional repairs that are not covered under your warranty or through the Toyota recall, you may be able to get your insurance company to cover the costs of the repairs for you. Your dealer will be able to give you a detailed list of suggested repairs along with a price quote for each. Contact your insurance representative, explain that the repairs are related to the recall (if that’s the case), and see how much they are willing to cover, if anything.
Toyota claims they can make most of the necessary repairs in under an hour, but your car may take longer depending on the model type and severity of damage. If in the end, you decide it might just be time for a new ride, visit LendingTreeAutos.com to view new and used cars for sale.
