Toyota Dealers Cope With Suspended Model Sales

PALM DESERT – As soon as Richard Riggs of Palm Desert learned Toyota was suspending production and sales of 8 models involved in the recall for sticking gas pedals that can cause run-away acceleration, hehad had enough.

He paid 1-10 Toyota a visit asking for a full refund on his 3 year lease on a 2009 Camry.

“How many children are riding in these cars? How many people are trusting Toyota that you know they purchased a quality car from Toyota?”

Riggs ended up calling Toyota Financial. They agreed to suspend his lease for two months with no fees or interest while the car manufacturer figures out how it will remedy the accelerator problem.

At Toyota of the Desert, General Manager Mark Murray says he can understand why people driving Toyotas that come under the recall might be a little nervous behind the wheel.

“When we run into someone a little over concerned we’re working with them. There are people right now that I am personally working with that had a recent purchase with a vehicle. If they can’t feel more comfortable with the solution Toyota comes up with we’ll take em out of the vehicle.”

If you’re worried about whether or not your vehicle falls under the accelerator pedal recall, Murray added you should check your Vin number and contact your Toyota dealer or call Toyota’s 800 number.

“The key for us is for information flowing. As soon as we get information from Toyota regarding the recall of the update specifics we pass it on to our customers.”

Murray saysthe suspension of sales affects about 25 percent of his inventory.In talking with prospective buyers, Michael Sullivan still has confidence in the company’s product.

“Toyota has already made a very good car and the fact they found the problems is a good indication.” Jimmy Main added. “There’s a stigma and there’s a good side because they’re truly doing something about the gas pedals sticking. You shouldn’t sell em, fix em and that’s what they’re doing.”

You can find a list of the models involved in the recall here atKesq.com.Click on “Seen on 3.”