In a pre-emptive move, Toyota is recalling 340,000 Prius cars around the world because of alarming reports of faulty parking brakes. 212,000 units will be recalled in Japan, 94,000 units in America, and 17,000 units in Europe, Australia and other affected regions.

The Problem with the Brakes

In a statement last Tuesday, the company said that there is "a possibility that the parking brake could become inoperative. If this occurs and the driver exits the vehicle with the transmission in a gear other than 'Park' while the ignition is on, the vehicle could roll away, increasing the risk of a crash". The Japanese car maker has received reports of crashes, injuries, and deaths. However, none is officially tied to this issue, Toyota is investigating the reports but Toyota spokesman Victor Vanov refused to provide further details.

Toyota's Solution

Toyota said that according to their findings, the parking brake cable can be disengaged and will cause the brakes to stop working properly. So if the car is left in any gear other than park, it could start rolling away and can potentially crash. To remedy the problem, the company began recalling units and also launched a campaign on Prius that will add clips on the top of the brake cable dust boots to prevent the cable from becoming inoperative. The operation only affects the parking brake and normal vehicle braking functions are not affected.

If you own one of the affected Prius hybrids, you should get a letter from Toyota in November. You can check if your Prius is affected by going to Toyota's official website and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Toyota owners will be contacted by a Toyota representative for corrective action by their local dealer free of charge, or you can also contact Toyota customer care center at 0800 139 111.