Toyota has more issues, and this time it’s with 933,800 Camry, Avalon, Rav4 and Lexus models with a potential oil leak that could damage the engine if untreated. On some of the above-mentioned models equipped with V6 engines, the rubber portion of the engine oil hose may develop a small hole, potentially causing oil leakage and engine failure.
Toyota notified its dealers of the issue March 1, according to Reuters.
The potential oil leak problem has not prompted a recall, the issue is not a major safety concern and has been described as a “limited service campaign.”
The oil hose service campaign covers 2007-2010 model year Camry, 2005-2009 Avalon, 2006-2009 Rav4, 2007-2008 Lexus ES 350 and 2007-2009 RX 350 vehicles.
Toyota is also investigating whether the same condition may affect other Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
The leak would likely be noticed by drivers as the condition may cause abnormal engine noise or cause the oil pressure light to illuminate.
Toyota owners who need the oil hose replaced can do so without charge at Toyota dealerships until March 31, 2013. The service takes about an hour.
Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons confirmed the company had sent the document on a “limited service campaign” to U.S. dealers. He added that the oil hose issue is not a safety issue and the vehicles are not being recalled.
Aaron Bragman, auto analyst with IHS Global Insight, told Reuters the oil hose issue is not nearly as significant as safety recalls involving unintended acceleration.
Toyota, whose sales dipped 16 percent in January, is expected to announce its February sales totals March 2.
Article Last Updated: March 1, 2010.