AUTOS

Toyota to Recall 98,000 Pickups in North America: Toyota Motor Corp. said it is recalling the late-model Tacoma trucks because of a flaw that could cause a loss of vehicle control. The recall covers two-wheel-drive versions of the Tacomas, Toyota’s best-selling pickups, made between January 1995 and July 1996. The company wouldn’t say how much the recall will cost. The problem lies in the suspension and steering system, Toyota spokesman Brett Voris said. The front strut towers under the hood can crack if the truck is driven over speed bumps or in other “unusual conditions,” he said. If a crack does occur, the driver can lose control. Toyota reported the problem to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in July after 12 people called about the problem. Most of the trucks that had the flaws were used for commercial delivery. Nobody has reported any accidents or injuries. Toyota said it will notify Tacoma owners by Sept. 1.