Toyota is recalling 2000 through 2003 model year Tundras for rust damage, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced today. According to the federal agency, road salts are causing "excessive corrosion" on the rear cross-member of the frame, which can lead to damage to the rear brake lines. If the frame fails, the spare tire can fall on to the road. It was just yesterday that we told you the NHTSA was investigating cases of frame corrosion, and it appears those investigations were well warranted.
Per the NHTSA, the safety recall includes Tundras "that are registered in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia."
Toyota will ask owners of afflicted vehicles to bring their truck to a dealership, where it will be inspected and repaired. Toyota will perform an inspection and repair, if necessary, on affected trucks outside of the above states.
Until then, the NHTSA is advising owners of these trucks to remove the spare tire to avoid creating a road hazard should it come loose from the vehicle.
Thanks to: Motor Trend