Pontiac Recall 12V-491: Visibility – power window devices and controls

Affected: 2009 Pontiac Vibe, 2008–2009 Scion xB, 2008–2009 Scion xD and 10 more. Filed with NHTSA on October 10, 2012, covering about 2,519,424 vehicles.

The problem

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.

The risk

If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.

The fix

Toyota will notify its owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and apply a special grease that inhibits heat build up or replace any switch damaged by the defect, free of charge. Toyota owners that experience a problem with a switch should not attempt to make repairs, but should contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. General Motors will contact the Pontiac Vibe owners affected by this recall and GM dealers will inspect and repair switches as necessary. Those owners may contact Pontiac Customer Care at 1-800-762-2737.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign12V-491 (12V491000)
ManufacturerToyota Motor Corporation
ComponentVisibility › Power window devices and controls
Report dateOctober 10, 2012
Owners notifiedNovember 5, 2012
Vehicles affected2,519,424
Initiated byNHTSA investigation

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the windows, wipers & sunroof

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 12V-491 repair free?

Yes. Pontiac dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Toyota will notify its owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and apply a special grease that inhibits heat build up or replace any switch damaged by the defect, free of charge.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,519,424 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.