For years, Toyota cars were top sellers until the recent recalls of several troubled models for stuck brake pedals and sudden, out-of-control acceleration with drivers sometimes going miles unable to stop. A dangerous situation, indeed. Toyota's CEOs are apologizing and are embarrassed while promising instant repair.

Millions of people own Toyotas, and I am sure that many have to wait weeks before their problem is solved. In the meantime, their cars could be ticking time bombs. Toyota knew about some of the problems but decided not to let the world know. It's outrageous that the carmaker was putting their customers' lives on the line.

Many car manufacturers other than Toyota have had recalls. Where is that coming from? Bad workmanship on either the cars or the parts? "They don't make 'em like they used to anymore," some say. New cars have been called "plastic boxes." I can't help the feeling when I am on the road of getting hit by a Toyota with a brake or acceleration problem. I'm looking more in my car mirror these days.

All the advanced technology that goes into new cars is overwhelming. It takes most people a few days to learn all about it.

The peace-of-mind feeling of a new car is somewhat shadowed by all the recent recalls. Thank God for long warranties.

Margit Suesser
Anniston