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Investigation into fires expanded to 1.4 million Toyota vehicles

The U.S. government said Monday that it has expanded an investigation into fires that can start in the doors of several Toyota models, adding 600,000 Camrys and RAV4 vehicles to the probe.
(David Zalubowski / AP Photo)
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Government safety regulators are investigating 1.4 million Toyota vehicles – including the country’s most popular car, the Camry – after more than 100 reports of fires.

On Monday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration added 600,000 Camrys, Camry Hybrids, RAV4s and Yaris vehicles from model years 2007 through 2009 as well as 2008 Highlander Hybrids to its existing probe.

Investigators are looking into electrical fires that can spark in the driver’s door armrest when the power window switch overheats.

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Since launching the examination in February,Toyota Motor Corp. and regulators have received 161 complaints of fires or crashes. Nine people have reportedly been hurt but no deaths were noted.

So far, the government agency hasn’t initiated a recall into the matter.

In March, Toyota said it would recall 700,000 vehicles, including Tacoma trucks, due to safety issues. The Japanese automaker struggled with a slew of recalls and safety concerns in recent years which have wrecked havoc with its reputation and bottom line.

RELATED:

Safety regulators probe Camry fires; Nissan recalls Versa

Toyota recall: Camry, Venza and Tacoma; Chrysler recalls Liberty

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YouTube video of horrific Camry crash is sponsored by ... Toyota

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