Toyota has yet another recall that could soon affect Louisiana residents. The auto part defect recall concerns a rust issue that could cause the spare tire to come loose from the bottom of the vehicle. The recall will affect approximately 150,000 Tacomas made in the years of 2001 through 2004.

Right now the company has limited the auto part defect recall to 20 states, but a spokesman has stated they will inspect and repair affected Tacomas in other states at no charge. Right now the recall is regional, an action long criticized by automotive consumer advocates because some vehicles that may need the repair may not receive it. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has stated regional recalls save money, others do not agree, but the company did concede by stating they will repair vehicles outside of the recall area.

Problems came to Toyota's notice in 2009. About two years later, the company had come to the conclusion that the anti-corrosion coating used on those models of Tacoma was inconsistent. It was only earlier this month the company finally decided a recall was necessary. While the recall is voluntary, companies who become aware of a safety issue with their vehicles must inform the NHTSA about their recall plans or face the possibility of a fine.

This is not the first run-in Toyota has had with rust problems in their vehicle, making the notion of a regional auto part defect recall concerning. Louisiana Toyota owners who have experienced issues with their vehicles concerning the spare tire may have legal options available, especially if the problem resulted in an injury. For others, keeping an eye on the tire may be warranted to avoid the potential of serious physical harm.

Source: The New York Times, "Toyota Recalling 150,000 Tacoma Pickups," Christopher Jensen, Nov. 27, 2012