ALT-1 Toyota – Yes
Toyota is certainly under the gun these days. Due to the recent recalls involving many of their vehicle models there is a lot of question as to whether or not Toyota's are safe vehicles to drive.
I believe they are very safe to drive. They could have just ignored the fact that the gas and brake pedals had issues and denied any responsibility for recent accidents which happened as a result of the faulty pedals. There are several other vehicles on the road that should possibly have been recalled but are constantly in the shop at the owners expense.
Locally, the VP of Toyota personally called probably thousands of customers to ease their concerns about the recall. He welcomed those concerned to contact him directly if they were unsure of the situation and how Toyota was going to resolve the situation. At least they stepped up and took responsibility for their mistake. Just like Maple Leaf Foods. They didn't try to just sweep the error under the carpet and deny any problem existed.
I know many people with cars that have had everything but the engine practically have to be replaced. Where was the recall there. Just because the parts did not cause a physical threat or such a serious threat to the occupants they still should have been repaired at the manufacturer's expense. I know one friend with another brand of vehicle and her speedometer stopped working after she owned the vehicle for only three years. Her power mirrors have never worked properly since the purchase of the vehicle and the blind spots in this vehicle are unbelievable. Whey wasn't that vehicle recalled and repaired. When she did take it back, none of these things were covered and she had to pay for it out of her own pocket.
Toyota is offering incredible deals on vehicles just trying to save face in the market and I think they will. They make amazing, gas efficient and reliable vehicles which hold their value. Once this blows over they will still hold their value because they stand behind the vehicles they make and step up and fix any problems which can occur in the making of any vehicle. They also have enough class as a business not to jump in at the chance to deface another car maker's reputation at the first chance they get. Toyotas are safe - most of them have a five star rating and I think the company that backs them is five star as well!
