Toyota recall: Six things you need to know

Toyota is recalling 1.1 million Corollas and Corolla Matrixes sold in North America because improperly manufactured electronic control modules could, in limited instances, cause the engines to stall while the cars are moving.

Here are six things owners should know about the latest Toyota recall:

1. What cars are affected?

The Toyota recall involves Corollas and Corolla Matrixes from the 2005-08 years. The company has not yet released which vehicle identification numbers (VINs) are affected.

2. What's wrong?

Certain electronic control modules, which make up the car's computer, can develop a crack along solder points or on the component itself. In most instances, the worst that would occur would be a check-engine warning light, harsh shifting conditions, or an engine that wouldn't start, the company said in a release.

More worrying is that sometimes the engine can stall, the company warned. "In limited instances, if cracking occurs on particular solder points or varistors, the engine could stop while the vehicle is being driven."

Usually, the check-engine light or harsh shifting will warn drivers before an engine-stall happens, but not necessarily always, Toyota said. The defect allegedly has led to at least three unconfirmed accidents, one of which involved a minor injury.

3. When will the recall start?

In mid-September, Toyota will begin sending letters to owners about the problem. But replacement parts aren't yet available. When they are, the company will send another letter notifying owners to schedule a trip to the dealer.

4. What if I'm having that trouble with my car now?

Toyota suggests contacting your local dealer or Toyota customer service at 800-331-4331.

5. How long will the actual repair take and will it cost me?

The repair should take about 40 minutes. It is free.

6. How many vehicles has Toyota recalled in the past year?

With this latest action, the automaker has recalled about 11 million vehicles worldwide since November, when Toyota determined that floor-mats were causing accelerators to stick.