Toyota Under Investigation

It appears that Toyota has had a history of covering up recalls and other defects that go as far back as 2003. In 2003 there was an issue with a panel that could become dislodged and cause unintended acceleration in some Toyota Sienna minivans. The part was fixed after 26,000 units were produced though a there was not a recall until six years later. In 2004 there was a steering issue with the Toyota 4Runner. The car was recalled in Japan, though a recall in the U.S. did not occur until 2005.

Toyota's current issues is with cars accelerating out of control. Toyota has been known to pay off owners who filed complaints about unintended acceleration issues after they signed a non-disclosure act. Some dealerships have been reported buying back cars from customers who complained about the unintended acceleration only to sell them to other customers.

In January, Jeff Pepski had his car examined by a Toyota expert. The Toyota employee downloaded data from the vehicle computers. When Pepski asked for a copy he was denied. Pepski later traded the car in after filing a complaint with the NHTSA. According to records the car was later resold in Minnesota.

Currently the NHTSA is looking into a braking issue with the third generation Toyota Prius. Owners have filed multiple complaints about difficulty braking when going over pot holes and other road obstacles.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: LA Time and Left Lane News]

Car Fact of the Day

Fiat, standing for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino, (Italian Automobile Factory of Turin), is an automobile manufacturer, engine manufacturer, financial and industrial group based in Italy. Fiat was founded in 1899 by a group of investors. Fiat has also manufactured railroad vehicles, tanks, and aircraft. Fiat has holdings in Maserait, Lancia Automobiles, Alfa Romero Automobiles, and a 85 percent stake in Ferrari, though Ferrari is ran autonomously.

-Anthony Alaniz

Test Drive New GM Models at the 2010 NAIAS

GM believes its new models are better than ever, and to prove it to the customers, GM is offering auto show visitors a chance to test drive some of their new cars. GM, the city of Detroit, and COBO officials are working together to set up a test route for consumers to test drive the new GM products. Test drives at auto shows are not uncommon, with Cadillac piloting a program at the New England Auto Show earlier this year with great success.

-Anthony Alaniz

[Source: The Detroit News]

Ferrari 599 Hybrid

Ferrari is apparently planning on unveiling its new concept of the 599 Hybrid at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The 599 Hybrid Concept will contain lithium-ion batteries and an electric-motor that will deliver supercar performance. Fuel economy is expected to improve by 35 percent, from 9 mpg to 14 mpg.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Ferrari 599 Hybrid Concept from imaginelifestyles.com)

[Source: Quattroruote]

Video of the Day: Lewis Christmas Car(ol)

Fiat's New 0.9L Engine

Fiat is offereing a new smaller engine for its Fiat 500. Currently the 500 is powered by a 1.2L SOHC gasoline engine that produces between 68 to 74 horsepower. The new unit is a o.9L engine. In its naturally aspirated form, the 0.9L pumps out 65 horsepower, though the turbocharged engine produces anywhere from 80 to 105 horsepower. The engine is lighter and has a reduction in carbon dioxide output, making it more fuel efficient.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Autoblog]

2011 5.0 Mustang

It looks like Ford couldn't keep the 2011 Mustang GT under wraps until its official release on the 28th. We have two photos, thanks to Jalopnik (via Mustangheave and Burlappcars), of the new pony. Please enjoy the Christmas eye candy.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2011 Mustang GT from Jalopnik)
[Source: Jalopnik]