In what has been a Fall season of car recalls, Toyota, the largest car maker in the world, has initiated their own recall. The Toyota recall is on over 1.53 million vehicles and include, three Lexus models in the United States, all from 2006, the Lexus RX330, GS300, IS250, and IS350. It also includes the 2005 and 2006 Toyota Avalon, and the 2004-2006 non-hybrid Highlander. In Japan, the following models have also been a part of this recall, Crown, Crown Majesta, Harrier, Mark X, Alphard, Kluger, Lexus GS350, Lexus IS250, and Lexus IS350. The years of these models were not readily available, however, they span from 2002-2006.

Toyota has stated that they are trying to take a more proactive approach to the safety of their vehicles, after several major issues involving the gas pedal of over 6 million vehicles attracted international attention to the company last November. “Every time we announce a recall, that is a step toward increasing quality,” Paul Nolasco, a Toyota spokesman stated.

This recall is being initiated because of possible problems with the vehicle’s fuel pumps and brakes. In total, the company will repair 750,000 cars in the United States, 599,000 cars in Japan, approximately 140,000 cars in Australia and the rest of Asia, and about 50,000 in Europe. All owners will receive a letter in the mail sometime in November to schedule a repair visit.

Toyota has been in business since 1937. The Aichi, Japan based company, employs over 320,000 people worldwide, and has several divisions, including Scion and Lexus. Last year the company took a hit, as did most auto makers. They lost $4.2 billion. In 2009-2010 alone, the company has recalled in excess of 9 million vehicles worldwide.