The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Due to improper assembly of the terminal for the starter motor magnetic switch, an electrical short circuit can occur if electrically-conductive liquid, such as road splash with deicing salt, enters this area.
The risk
A starter motor no-start condition or an underhood fire can result.
The fix
Dealers will repair the magnetic switch.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-016 (98V016000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Electrical system › Starter assembly |
| Report date | January 27, 1998 |
| Owners notified | February 9, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 47,525 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 2 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-016 repair free?
Yes. Lexus dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will repair the magnetic switch.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 47,525 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.