Toyota SA’s response to concerns about driving dynamics of Fortuner
In response to owners’ concerns following discussion on on-line forums about the driving dynamics of Fortuner vehicles, Toyota SA has launched an investigation in regards to these concerns.
Toyota SA always take customers’ concerns seriously, and is therefore investigating all possible causes that might have lead to these anxieties. However, initial findings suggest it is centered on driver experiences in very specific corrugated dirt road conditions.
Based on this each case of customer dissatisfaction will be dealt with on a one-to-one basis whereafter a decision will be made by Toyota SA pertaining to that specific case. The aim is to find the best solution for each individual Fortuner owner, which could include the fitment of a new specification tyre, depending on the driving conditions they experience.
The new specification tyre addresses driver apprehension caused by steering feedback in very specific corrugated road conditions and was initiated upon Toyota’s request to Continental.
Toyota SA would like to emphasize that the original General Grabber AW 265/70R16 specified for the Fortuner meets and fulfills all technical and quality requirements.
Concerns from Fortuner owners channelled through the customer care centre or dealers must be dealt with in accordance with the bulletin circulated by Toyota SA’s technical department.
Important note: In all cases it must be made clear that the fitment of the new specification Continental tyres in appropriate cases will be done as a sign of goodwill and customer satisfaction and is above and beyond Toyota’s legal obligations owed to its customers.
Any media requests must be forwarded to Ferdi de Vos, General Manager: Corporate PR on (011) 809-2227 or (011) 809-9227 (fax) or e-mailfdevos@tsb.toyota.co.za
ISSUED BY THE COMMUNICATIONS TEAM
http://www.4×4community.co.za/forum/showpost.php?p=211078&postcount=374
December 9th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
i would like to know if any one have had the same experience with the Hilux d4d’s on dirt roads?
November 9th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
i have problem with my new Fortuner.
It has a vibration shudder on steering when travelling about 80kms and 120 steering shakes
February 18th, 2010 at 11:42 am
Hi I have the same problem. Have you resolved it?
When I reach 120km/h it starts shuddering as if the wheel alignment is out.
March 11th, 2010 at 11:03 am
Matthew, do you still have the standard tires?
July 26th, 2009 at 10:04 am
I have a 2008 Fortuner 3.0 D4D 4×4 that I use for work. I specificaly bought this vehicle because I travel alot on dirt roads. I asked Toyota Helderberg in Somerset West about the poor handling on dirt roads. They replied that they will fit the new tyres on my Fortuner, but that I am on a waiting list for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks I contacted them again and now they say I will have to wait 8 months for the new tyres????
I have spoken to a friend that is a Toyota technician and he said that the only way to rectify the problem is to fot Old Man Emo suspension and BF Goodrich tyres. Are this true.
Like to have some comments.
Regards
August 13th, 2009 at 10:00 am
Hi Gerhard
I had a similar experience, where I was told to wait 6 weeks for tires, as they were supposed to be ordered from overseas. I then found out that I was lied to, and the tires are in fact ordered from PE. I eventually went out and bought Bridgestone AT tires, and put Camil suspension on the Fortuner.
As far as I am concerned, my R20,000.00 expense to fix Toyota’s mistake, has now sorted out my car’s handling problem.
November 9th, 2009 at 7:59 pm
It seems that they have not perfected this vehicle and I bought this dream vehicle only to be disappointed 2009 model 30ld4d new spec.
we need to get toyota sa to help us sort out this product of theirs.