The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of alaska, colorado, idaho, illinois, iowa, kansas, maine, michigan,minnesota, montana, nebraska, nevada, new hampshire, new york, noth dakota, south dakota, vermont, wisconsin, and wyoming. A condition can occur where accumulated moisture can temporarily freeze in the brake vacuum hose if the vehicle is used in extremely cold climates for an extended period of time.
The risk
This can result in the elimination of vacuum assist to the brakes that can increase stopping distances and could lead to a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will install a new design brake vacuum hose.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-156 (97V156000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist |
| Report date | September 17, 1997 |
| Owners notified | October 1, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 18,746 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the brakes
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-156 repair free?
Yes. Lexus dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a new design brake vacuum hose.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 18,746 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.