Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says Toyota was slow to realize safety problems with its gas pedals that has led to the recall of millions of popular Toyota brands, according to The Associated Press.

LaHood tells The Associated Press that Toyota was "a little safety deaf" and that federal safety officials needed to "wake them up" to the seriousness of the pedal problems.

LaHood says the Toyota case is one of most pressing safety issues he has faced as secretary.

Toyota has recalled 2.3 million vehicles due to concerns over gas pedals that can stick when drivers step on the gas. That's in addition to millions more the company has recalled over problems with pedals catching on floor mats.

The company says it is sending parts for a fix to dealers.