Government Study Finds Nothing Wrong with Toyota's Electronics

WATERTOWN, MA (03/07/2011)(readMedia)-- A new joint study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) found no evidence of unintended acceleration caused by Toyota's Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETSC-i) in vehicles recalled by Toyota dealers last year. The 10-month study, ordered by the U.S. Congress and conducted by some of the country's top engineers, did not find any causes for unintended acceleration other than the pedal and floor mat issues that were identified and addressed during Toyota's recalls. The results put an end to theories that rogue software was putting Toyota owners at risk.

By tapping NASA to conduct in-depth tests, NHTSA gained access to experts in computer-controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity who were experienced in uncovering root causes of problems, such as the events that led to the Space Shuttle Columbia accident in 2003. Rigorous examinations of Toyota vehicles by NASA included analysis of more than 280,000 lines of software code in the ETSC-i, mechanical testing of components by hardware and systems engineers and tests for electromagnetic radiation exposure. NHTSA engineers and researchers conducted additional tests on Toyota vehicles to look for other potential mechanical causes of unintended acceleration. All tests failed to find any new malfunctions.

"This broad validation from the brightest engineers in America provides complete reassurance to our customers regarding the safety of their Toyotas and their innovative technology features," said Paul Swerling, general sales manager of Toyota of Watertown, a Greater Boston Toyota dealer. "The electronics in each Toyota help to prevent accidents using features like traction control and vehicle stability control, which are directly enabled by the ETSC-i."

During the 10 months of the NHTSA/NASA study, Toyota remained focused on the commitment to quality and safety that has made the automaker one of the most trusted brands in the United States. In the recently announced Intellichoice 2011 Best Overall Values of the Year awards, seven Toyota models were rated at the top of their class, including the 4Runner, Avalon, Prius, RAV4, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra. These awards identify vehicles that offer outstanding initial value and higher long-term value, based on data that tracks the actual cost of ownership over a five-year period.

The Toyota Prius was also recently named a Kiplinger Best in Class winner for 2011 in the $20,000 to $25,000 category, in part for its "class-leading fuel economy, loads of cargo room and low service and insurance costs."

"Throughout the entire recall process, Toyota never lost its focus on continuing to improve its quality, value and safety, and the government study and recent awards show that the current models are strong in all of these areas," Swerling added. "We've worked closely with our Massachusetts Toyota customers over the past year to address their concerns and maintain their trust, which is incredibly important to us. We want people to know that safety is a top priority for Toyota."

About Toyota of Watertown:

Family-owned since 1957, Toyota of Watertown is a premier Greater Boston Toyota dealer. A multiple time winner of Toyota's coveted President's Award, they are renowned for their selection and low prices, as well as customer service that is second to none. They strive to make your automotive experience a positive one for the life of your vehicle. For more information, you can visit them online at www.toyotaofwatertown.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/toyotaofwatertown, call them at 617-926-5200 or visit their showroom at 149 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA.