A recent class action lawsuit has highlighted a concerning issue affecting Toyota Sienna hybrid minivans manufactured between 2021 and 2023.

The lawsuit alleges that these vehicles, known for their hybrid powertrains and all-wheel-drive capability, are plagued by defective cables that connect the front of the vehicle to the rear motor generators. This corrosion issue has led to a series of challenges, prompting owners to take legal action.

The Class Action Lawsuit

The lawsuit encompasses a range of 2021-2023 Toyota Sienna minivans, including LE, XLE, Limited, XSE, and Platinum models.

The central point of contention revolves around the hybrid system power cable, which features an orange connector linking it to the rear motor generator. According to the lawsuit, this cable and connector are susceptible to corrosion, primarily caused by exposure to snow, road salt, and other debris encountered on the road.

Previous Cases and Plaintiffs

The plaintiffs initiating this class action lawsuit have drawn parallels to earlier legal actions against Toyota. Notably, they reference the Isenberg v Toyota and Constantin Sultana v Toyota Canada class actions, which also dealt with cable corrosion issues in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

The current lawsuit was filed by two owners:

• Mark Chatwin from New York, who owns a 2023 Toyota Sienna XSE/AWD, and
• Gioi (Joey) Nguyen from Texas, who purchased a 2023 Toyota Sienna SXE 25th Anniversary Edition AWD.

Corrosion Impact and Concealed Damage

The corrosion problem affecting the Sienna hybrid cable connector can lead to serious repercussions. While initial symptoms may include noise or distortion in the radio, the real concern emerges when the hybrid system itself fails, necessitating a replacement of the cable.

Interestingly, this problem might not become apparent for several years, as corrosion gradually worsens over time.

Warranty and Misrepresentation

One of the most contentious points in the lawsuit revolves around warranty coverage. The plaintiffs argue that Toyota initially asserted that the cable was only covered by the basic warranty, which lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles. This contradicted the Hybrid Component Warranty, which spans 8 years or 100,000 miles, and the HV battery warranty covering 10 years or 150,000 miles.

The lawsuit contends that Toyota's initial representation misled customers about the extent of coverage for hybrid-related components.

Repair Costs and Neglect

As the cable corrosion issue typically manifests after the basic warranty has expired, affected Sienna owners face substantial repair costs. Replacing the cable can result in bills ranging from $4,200 to $8,000.

What's more troubling is that the owner's manuals and warranty booklets reportedly lack any directive to inspect or maintain hybrid cables, harnesses, or connectors.

Allegations Against Toyota

The lawsuit further claims that Toyota was aware of the cable corrosion issue before selling the affected Sienna hybrid minivans. This awareness, the plaintiffs argue, is especially significant given that similar issues had been observed in other Toyota hybrid models.

The plaintiffs are seeking justice for affected owners and holding Toyota accountable for the alleged defects.

Conclusion

This class action lawsuit, titled Chatwin, et al., v. Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc., et al., was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. If you're facing similar challenges with your Sienna hybrid's cables, contacting legal experts could be a step toward addressing these issues and seeking potential compensation.

Wondering how to address your vehicle's issues? Consider potential claims, such as:

• Breach of Express Warranty Claim: Manufacturers must uphold the promises made in their warranties. If they fail to do so, you may have grounds for this claim.
• Lemon Law Claim: Is your vehicle a constant source of frustration due to defects? Lemon laws provide recourse for consumers in such situations.
• Deceptive Practices Claim: Misleading or deceptive actions by the manufacturer or dealer could entitle you to compensation under deceptive practices laws.
• Magnuson-Moss Act Claim: Federal law safeguards consumers who purchase products with warranties, ensuring fairness and remedies for defects.
• Breach of Implied Warranty Claim: Your vehicle should meet certain expectations of quality and performance, and if it doesn't, you may have a case under this claim.

If you own, lease, or have owned/leased an impacted Toyota Sienna hybrid minivan in New Jersey, contact our legal experts at Law Office of Howard Gutman for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and potential compensation. Call (973) 598-1980 now.

Source:

• TOYOTA SIENNA HYBRID CABLE CORROSION PROBLEMS CAUSE LAWSUIT | Carcomplaints.com

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