√Class action proposed against Toyota for alleged paint peeling

Toyota could soon be facing a class action from owners of Corolla models with peeling paint.

A new class action is being proposed against Toyota, regarding alleged paint peeling on Corolla models built between 2010 and 2014.

William Roberts Lawyers is calling on Corolla owners affected by peeling white paint to join the lawsuit in an attempt to claim compensation from Toyota, alleging the Japanese car giant is liable for loss of value and damages for “distress and disappointment”.

While owners of other Toyota models with similar problems have been invited to register their details, at this stage the class action only applies to white Corollas manufactured between 12 July 2010 and 30 September 2014.

Those who own affected vehicles – or have since sold their Corollas – have been encouraged by the law firm to join the action.

“Toyota has received reports of paint peeling involving a specific factory-applied white paint (colour code 040) on certain Corolla and Rukus models produced between September 2007 and December 2015,” a Toyota Australia spokesperson told Drive.

“Toyota introduced a warranty extension program for the metal-panel factory-applied paint for these vehicles. This includes free-of-charge repairs for 12 years from the date of first registration, regardless of mileage.

MORE: Toyota owners call for peeling paint fix

“If a customer’s vehicle displays a similar condition and is no longer within Toyota’s new-vehicle warranty period, it is reviewed on a case-by-case basis when presented to a Toyota dealer for inspection and diagnosis.

“We encourage customers with any questions about their vehicle to contact their preferred Toyota dealer or our Guest Experience Centre on 1800 869 682 (Mon-Fri 9am – 5:30pm AET).

Drive first reported on the paint peeling in July 2022, and a dedicated Facebook group for concerned owners – with more than 850 members at the time.

At this point, the Facebook group ‘Toyota Australia Peeling Paint’ has approximately 4600 members.

It’s potentially the second class action being taken against Toyota in recent weeks. Earlier this month, a lawsuit was filed alleging Toyota breached laws regarding commissions linked to vehicle finance taken out at dealerships.

However, Toyota isn’t the only manufacturer dealing with paint peeling problems.

Earlier this week, Drive reported on similar issues with Hyundai models, with approximately 1100 owners submitting complaints to the car company.

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