Here is a paragraph on the latest info on the 2.2 L 4 cyl. and 3.0L V6 Toyota engines sludge problem. They are going to send out a letter on this. This info is from the Motorwatch newsletter. I wonder what Consumer Reports has to say about this.......
03-06 Toyota sludge class action lawsuit reaches a settlement in a Louisiana court, with Toyota admitting no fault. The suit covers some 3.5 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles and 7.5 million current and previous vehicle owners who are involved in the suit and will be mailed letters from Toyota explaining the terms of the settlement. The suit stems from sludge-caused engine failures, which can result in repair costs, which may exceed $10,000. The settlement was for $1.8 million plus legal expenses and an additional $50,000 for those who have independent settlements. The engines involved are the 4-cylinder 2.2-liter engine and V-6 3.0 liter. The sludge problem is being blamed on defects in the engine design coupled with the factory recommended 7,500-mile oil change interval. When last reported to NHTSA in 2002, Toyota admitted to receiving about 3,400 complaints; but no details of more recent complaint numbers have been released. In 2002, Toyota announced that it would extend the warranty period to 8 years and unlimited miles. Under the terms of the class action settlement, owners have 8 years and 3 months from the purchase date to file a claim; the settlement is transferable to new owners; previous repairs and rental car costs will be reimbursed; and if Toyota denies a claim, owners can appeal to a third party administrator. 888-279-4405 www.oilgelsettlement.com (see Secret Warranty). 53
03-06 Toyota sludge class action lawsuit reaches a settlement in a Louisiana court, with Toyota admitting no fault. The suit covers some 3.5 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles and 7.5 million current and previous vehicle owners who are involved in the suit and will be mailed letters from Toyota explaining the terms of the settlement. The suit stems from sludge-caused engine failures, which can result in repair costs, which may exceed $10,000. The settlement was for $1.8 million plus legal expenses and an additional $50,000 for those who have independent settlements. The engines involved are the 4-cylinder 2.2-liter engine and V-6 3.0 liter. The sludge problem is being blamed on defects in the engine design coupled with the factory recommended 7,500-mile oil change interval. When last reported to NHTSA in 2002, Toyota admitted to receiving about 3,400 complaints; but no details of more recent complaint numbers have been released. In 2002, Toyota announced that it would extend the warranty period to 8 years and unlimited miles. Under the terms of the class action settlement, owners have 8 years and 3 months from the purchase date to file a claim; the settlement is transferable to new owners; previous repairs and rental car costs will be reimbursed; and if Toyota denies a claim, owners can appeal to a third party administrator. 888-279-4405 www.oilgelsettlement.com (see Secret Warranty). 53
