Toyota to recall 1.4 million cars

About 830,000 cars in Europe, North America, and other regions are being recalled, and another 536,000 in Japan. The defective models include the Yaris (called the Vitz in Japan), Belta, and Ractis models built between January 2005 and April 2008.

The recall concerns the pre-tensioning device on seat belts that may melt or catch fire in some collision situations. On some models, there's also concern that the exhaust pipe will crack under extreme heat.

Earlier this month, Toyota recalled over 200,000 Lexus 2006-2008 models to replace fuel pipes that were corroding when used with certain types of ethanol fuels. In April 2008, the company recalled 540,000 Corolla and Matrix 2003-2004 models in the US over concerns that power windows were separating from their door's control frames due to loosening bolts.

On Wednesday, Toyota also reported the company's first overseas production decrease in 17 years, which the company attributed to decreased production mainly in North America and Europe.

Toyota announced decreased sales and production for all its markets and sectors on Wednesday except for one. The company's Daihatsu Motor subsidiary (no longer sold in Australia) saw its second year of production increase, which Toyota attributed to interest from the Indonesian market.

If you are concerned your vehicle may be affected by the recall rest assured you will be contacted via your Toyota service department. Used owners who own a vehicle within the category stated can contact their closest Toyota service devision.