Toyota Australia recalling Prius

Toyota Australia is recalling hybrid Prius models as part of a worldwide program to
fix faulty brakes.
The recall by the world's largest automaker affects 2378 third generation Prius
models sold in Australia since July 2009.
Globally, 400,000 Prius models are being recalled in Japan, the United States and
Europe.
Toyota says 111 cases of inconsistent brake feel have been reported across the
world, including two in Australia.
The recall affects Prius cars built between April 7, 2009 and January 27, 2010.
"The recall is being taken in response to reports of inconsistent brake feel during
slow and steady braking on certain road conditions such as a pot hole, bumpy or
slippery surfaces when ABS is activated," Toyota Australia said in a statement on
Tuesday.
"The brake pedal feel may not be consistent but the brakes will continue to operate."
Toyota president Akio Toyoda made the recall announcement on Tuesday afternoon at a
news conference in Japan.
"We have decided to recall as we regard safety for our customers as our foremost
priority," Toyoda said.
Prius models sold in North America, Europe and China have been recalled to fix a
sticky accelerator pedal but this problem has not affected Prius cars sold in
Australia.
The new Australian-made Camry hybrid - made with a $35 million federal government
subsidy - will still go on sale in late February, Toyota said.
No accidents have been linked to the latest model Prius in Australia.
No other Toyota or Lexus models, including hybrids, are affected by the recall.
Prius models are being recalled to fix a software problem with the ABS brakes -
known as the electronic control unit.
The repair procedure, to improve braking response times, would take one hour using
standard equipment at authorised Toyota dealerships, Toyota said.
Prius owners will be notified by mail this week to contact their local Toyota dealer
to arrange repairs.