12/14/07
Toyota is recalling 15,600 of its 2007 4x4 Tundra trucks to check a joint in the rear driveshaft. There's a possibility that parts weren't heat treated properly in order to create the strength needed to handle the Tundra's power.
If parts fail, a worst-case scenario would be a separation between the driveshaft at the joint, and that could lead to an accident. In the one related incident that's occurred, the driver heard an unusual noise and took the truck to a dealer, where they discovered that parts were failing. Toyota took it from there.
Toyota's press release isn't real clear, so I'm not sure yet if a failure would be at the universal joint or the driveshaft yoke (where the universal joint attaches). I'll know more about the specifics of the recall in the next week or two.
Which Tundras Are Affected?
Toyota will notify you by mail (beginning in late December, 2007) if you own a Tundra that's involved in the recall. The notice will tell you to contact your local Toyota dealer for an inspection. The recall affects about 10-percent of the new generation Tundra's sold so far.
As of December 15th, dealers don't have information about the recall. Owners with questions should contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
12/17/07, Update: Predictions could change, but right now Toyota thinks that only about seven percent of the trucks that are called in for a check will need repairs.
