Everybody is aware that Toyota had one of the biggest problems ever with its vehicles a couple of years ago, with many models suffering from the unintended acceleration syndrome due to badly designed gas pedal and floor mat. Now it appears Lexus has a similar problem, but in reverse...
Lexus will recall around 10,500 2013-model-year GS 350 units because they might apply the brakes against your will. The problem seems to be located in the brake pedal load-sensing switch.
The defective switch can apply the brakes without the driver’s input and it won’t even activate the rear brake lights. It doesn’t seem as dangerous as the sudden acceleration problem, but you can be hit by a car driving behind you if it’s too close.
The load-sensing switch is part of the brake assist system. Basically, the sensor within it will measure how hard and fast you push the brake to tell the computer if there’s an emergency. If an emergency is detected, the car will aid you with braking in a matter of milliseconds, by increasing the braking power automatically.
Even though the problem seems pretty nasty, Lexus said nothing about when the recall will start. You can find more information on Lexus’ recall page here, or by calling the Lexus Customer Satisfaction Center at 1-800-25-LEXUS (1-800-255-3987).
The defective switch can apply the brakes without the driver’s input and it won’t even activate the rear brake lights. It doesn’t seem as dangerous as the sudden acceleration problem, but you can be hit by a car driving behind you if it’s too close.
The load-sensing switch is part of the brake assist system. Basically, the sensor within it will measure how hard and fast you push the brake to tell the computer if there’s an emergency. If an emergency is detected, the car will aid you with braking in a matter of milliseconds, by increasing the braking power automatically.
Even though the problem seems pretty nasty, Lexus said nothing about when the recall will start. You can find more information on Lexus’ recall page here, or by calling the Lexus Customer Satisfaction Center at 1-800-25-LEXUS (1-800-255-3987).