The problem
Toyota is recalling model year 2000-2003 tundra vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virginia, wisconsin and the district of columbia. Excessive corrosion of the rear cross member May cause the separation of the spare tire stowed under the truck bed which would present a road hazard that could cause a crash. Also, corrosion of the rear cross member could affect the rear brake lines and the proportioning valve resulting in diminished braking capability.
The risk
Separation of the spare tire and diminished brake capacity could increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
Toyota is asking owners of the affected vehicles to remove the spare tire from under the vehicle until a remedy can be obtained. Dealers will inspect the rear cross member and related components, including the brake lines, and replace them if necessary. If the cross member does not need to be replaced, it will be sprayed with a corrosion protection compound. These services will be performed free of charge, however multiple visits to the dealer May be required. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about April 30, 2010. Owner May contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 09V-444 (09V444000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SSC90/90M |
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields |
| Report date | November 18, 2009 |
| Owners notified | May 3, 2010 |
| Vehicles affected | 110,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the body & structure
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 09V-444 repair free?
Yes. Toyota dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Toyota is asking owners of the affected vehicles to remove the spare tire from under the vehicle until a remedy can be obtained. Dealers will inspect the rear cross member and related components, including the brake lines, and replace them if necessary.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 110,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.