Car manufacturer Toyota announced a recall of 185,000 vehicles around the world after a potential glitch was found that could make it harder for drivers to retain control.
Around 130,000 Yaris models are being recalled in Japan, where they are known as the Vitz, according to Reuters, along with Verso-S, known as the Ractis in that country.
Several other countries are affected by the recall, which is caused by a glitch in the vehicles’ electric power steering system, which causes a short circuit that can kill their power assist. This can make the steering wheel heavy and cause difficulty turning, increasing the potential for a crash. If the short circuit does happen, drivers should get a warning light on their dashboard as well as a buzzer alarm, according to USA Today.
Only 74 Yaris cars in America are affected by the global recall, which were made between November 2010 and March 2012, while around 7,000 vehicles are affected in Germany and France, respectively. Other regions around the world have unspecified numbers of cars recalled.
No accidents were reported stemming from the glitch, Toyota spokeswoman Shiori Hashimoto told Reuters.
Better physical testing of car components can prevent recalls, lowering costs of ownership and maintenance over a longer period of time.