Local woman says she waited almost 300 days for recall-related repair on truck

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. (WLS) -- One local woman says she waited almost 300 days for a recall-related repair on her truck.

"Toyota's slogan is 'let's go places.' But the only place they've taken me is back to the dealership," Ana Marrero said.

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Marrero brought her Toyota Tundra into her dealership in June of 2025, after a recall was issued. She says she was told that it would be fixed in October. She was given a rental car, but Marrero, who lives on the city's Southwest Side, wanted her vehicle back.

"Very disappointed, you know, I'm not asking for anything unreasonable from Toyota. I'm asking for Toyota to take accountability. Stand behind your brand," Marrero said.

The safety recall was issued by Toyota in May of 2025, and involved 443,00 Tundra trucks that had issues with the rear lights not engaging when the vehicle was put into reverse.

"I've asked for reasons why they've had my vehicle for such a long time. They said it is out of their hands. It's in corporate's file now. Now it's up to them to decide what to do with it. Whether they have a remedy for you, I don't know," Marrero said.

The ABC7 Chicago I-Team reached out to the manufacturer, Toyota, and Marrero's local dealer, Romeoville Toyota.

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In mid-March, a manager at her dealership said other trucks had the same issue, and "There is currently no remedy or part to repair the truck. Toyota Corp is well aware of her situation and has been communicating with her and us on the recall. I can understand her frustration, but we cannot repair the truck until a repair bulletin and parts have been released."

"I'm making payments on a vehicle that I don't have, a vehicle that is not safe to drive. And that's unfair to me and my family," Marrero said.

The manufacturer, Toyota, says it is committed to providing a positive customer experience, and its team was in "frequent contact" with Marrero.

Marrero said she started getting answers and updates after the I-Team's involvement.

Then in April, more than nine months later, she got her truck back and is safely driving it.

"Your support definitely moved things along much faster in resolving my recall issue, and I truly appreciate your effort," Marrero said.

Toyota says if customers have concerns about recall delays, they should contact the Brand Engagement Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Those dealing with a wait on a recall fix should ensure they get a rental car. Complaints can also be filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.