In recent years, auto manufacturers have been plagued with expensive product recalls, along with the litigation and PR nightmares that invariably ensue.

Toyota Motor Co., for one, is still reeling from a slew of mechanical issues that have impacted its global operations during the last 3 years. In Oct. 2012, the manufacturer recalled 2.5 million vehicles sold in the U.S., citing potential fire risks, only to later announce a staggering $1.1 billion settlement in December to resolve lawsuits stemming from “unintended acceleration” mishaps in certain Toyota and Lexus models.

Surprisingly, the unintended acceleration recall, even in its enormity, ranks only sixth on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) top ten listing of the largest automotive recalls of all time.

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