Toyota recalls close to 20,000 cars

Toyota has issued a recall on 19,099 Camry, Camry Hybrid and Aurion sedans over a fire risk. The recall says an incorrectly manufactured fuel hose could leak and result in a potential fire hazard. 

“There is a possibility the hose that connects the main fuel supply line to the engine may have become wrinkled, and in some cases this could result in a small hole in the fuel hose which may allow fuel to leak,” Toyota spokesperson Beck Angel said. The recall is for 19,099 cars built at Toyota’s Altona plant in Victoria between October 2011 and July 2012.

Toyota is sending letters to owners, urging them to contact a dealership for a 30-minute inspection and – if deemed necessary -- a free replacement of the hose that will take about an hour. Angel said no incidents related to the fuel hose have been reported. 

"There have been no fires, there is potential for a fire hazard but because of the location of the fuel and the distance from the ignition source, it's a relatively low risk,'' she said.

In November last year Toyota Australia recalled almost 22,000 of its Avalon, Camry and Kluger models from June 2004 to March 2005 over concerns about the crankshaft pulley belts and potential loss of power steering assistance.

The previous-generation Camry was also involved in a vehicle recall in the US in late 2009 and early 2010 involving more than five million US-made vehicles over problems with accelerator pedals and floor mats, a campaign which did not include Australian-built vehicles.

For more information, Camry and Aurion owners should call 1800 643 242.