Contact Us
Address
6905 East McDowell Road
Scottsdale , AZ 85257
Scottsdale , AZ 85257
Operation Hours
Sales, New & Pre-Owned:
Sun 12:00 PM-5:00 PMMon-Fri 9:00 AM-7:00 PM
Sat 9:00 AM-6:00 PM
Service:
Sun, Sat ClosedMon-Fri 7:00 AM-6:00 PM
Parts:
Sun, Sat ClosedMon-Fri 7:00 AM-6:00 PM
NCIR Filing – FMVSS 301
2010 Model Year HS250h Vehicles – Q&A
On June 25, 2010, Lexus filed a Noncompliance Information Report (NCIR) with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) informing the agency of our intent to conduct a voluntary Safety Recall on certain model year 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles. There are up to 17,000 HS250h vehicles covered by this NCIR.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q1: What is the condition?
A1: As part of its annual compliance testing program, NHTSA recently conducted an FMVSS 301 compliance test of a 2010 model year HS 250h vehicle. The test involves striking the subject vehicle from the rear at 80 km/h (approximately 50 mph). The vehicle is struck by a moving deformable barrier with a 70 percent overlap. Following the impact, the test vehicle is rotated on its longitudinal axis to each successive increment of 90o. During the rotation, the vehicle exhibited fuel spillage which exceeded the requirement of the standard.
It is important to note that during vehicle development, Lexus conducted testing utilizing the same protocol. The Lexus tests showed the vehicles fully comply with the FMVSS 301. We are working to understand the different results.
Q2: What is the cause of this condition?
A2: After having been struck from the rear at a speed of 50 miles per hour in a test under the provisions of FMVSS No. 301, a 2010 Model Year Lexus HS 250h vehicle leaked more fuel than allowed by the standard when it was rotated on to its driver’s side. This occurred because interaction with a body panel edge during the test caused deformation of the fuel cap. If the vehicle is involved in a rear end collision where the fuel cap is damaged and the vehicle rolls over, fuel spillage may occur. Fuel spillage in the presence of an ignition source may lead to a vehicle fire.
Q3: Have there been any reports of incidents related to this issue involving the HS 250h?
A3: Lexus is not aware of any accidents involving this issue.
Q4: How many Lexus HS 250h vehicles have been sold that are being investigated?
A4: Approximately 13,000 model year 2010 Lexus HS 250h vehicles have been sold in the United States. (Note: Approximately 17,000 vehicles have been manufactured.)
Q5: Are there any other Lexus or Toyota vehicles involved?
A5: No, there are no other Lexus or Toyota vehicles covered by the Noncompliance Information Report..
Q6: What is FMVSS 301?
A6: FMVSS 301 is entitled “Fuel system integrity.” It establishes performance requirements to protect against fuel leaks following a crash.
Q7: What is Lexus going to do?
A7: Lexus is working to identify the reason for the different test results and to identify the cause of the noncompliance. At the present time, Lexus has not identified a remedy for this noncompliance, but it is working hard to do so promptly. As soon as a remedy is developed, Lexus will notify owners of covered vehicles by first class mail.
Q8: When will the investigation be completed?
A8: Lexus is working hard to complete its investigation, but at this time it cannot be certain when it will be completed.
Q9: Can vehicles in dealer inventory be delivered?
A9: As required by Federal law, dealers are not to deliver any new vehicles in their inventory which are covered by this NCIR until remedied. Vehicle applicability and completion can be verified through TIS.
Q10: What if customers have questions or safety concerns regarding this issue, should they go to their dealer?
A10: If customers have any concerns at all, they should feel free to contact Lexus Customer Assistance Center (1-800-255-3987).