Toyota Fortuner, Innova included in diesel engine testing irregularities

Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO), which develops diesel engines for Toyota Motor Corporation, has reported that some irregularities were found during the horsepower output testing of three engine models. 

Toyota Fortuner (LTD variant pictured)

This was determined by an investigation that was carried out by a special committee. According to the said committee’s report which was submitted to Toyota Motor Corporation, three TICO-produced diesel engines are affected. These are the 1GD, the 2GD, and the F33A. 

The investigation found that the three engines have had their outputs measured with Electronic Control Units (ECU) equipped with software that differed from mass market versions. This was said to be done to make the engine’s output values appear more consistent and with less variation. 

These certifications are performed by national authorities to confirm if a vehicle model meets a variety of standards as dictated by laws. As one can imagine, this fiasco, like the lapses in crash testing from Daihatsu, is a massive blow to Toyota’s reputation. 

The 2GD-FTV turbodiesel engine on the Fortuner G

For reference, here is a table listing the models using the affected engines, their start of sales date, and where they are sold: 

As a form of immediate action, TICO will be providing more information about the issue to authorities. It will likewise temporarily suspend the shipment of the models and engines mentioned in the table above. Furthermore, Toyota will proceed with “appropriate measures, including conducting testing in the presence of witnesses if appropriate.”

Toyota itself has also apologized for the issue.

“As the commissioner of these tests, we regret that we were not sufficiently attentive and aware of the fact that the procedures were not carried out in accordance with laws and regulations.” 

“Going Forward, we will be involved in all company-wide activities to help rebuild TICO and review the situation to thoroughly ensure that safety and quality are top priorities.” 

Toyota Innova

Of note, several models listed in the table are currently sold in the Philippine market. These are the Innova, Hilux, HiAce, Land Cruiser Prado, Fortuner, Land Cruiser 300, and LX500d. However, a report from Topgear Philippines has said that our local versions are not affected by the irregularities in horsepower output certification. 

This was communicated to the source by Toyota Motor Philippines, which clarified that the irregularities in certification “do not have any impact on horsepower, torque, or other powertrain-related values. Additionally, these irregularities do not compromise the emissions or safety of their vehicles.”

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