Component
STEERING
Manufacturer
TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The steering lock bar in your Avalon is a critical part that keeps your steering wheel from moving when the car is turned off. However, it's possible that a small crack could form on the lock bar over time, especially if you lock and unlock the steering wheel frequently.
Risk if Unfixed
If the steering lock bar breaks, you'll lose control of the steering wheel and won't be able to steer the vehicle, which could cause a serious crash.
Free Fix
Your Toyota dealer will replace the steering interlock device for free, so schedule an appointment as soon as you can to prevent any potential issues.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2000-2004 AVALON VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER CASTING OF THE STEERING LOCK BAR, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT A MINUTE CRACK MAY DEVELOP ON THE SURFACE OF THE LOCK BAR. SUCH A CRACK MAY EXPAND OVER A LONG PERIOD OF REPEATED LOCK AND UNLOCK OPERATIONS, AND EVENTUALLY THE LOCK BAR COULD BREAK.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
SHOULD THE STEERING LOCK BAR BREAK, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD LOCK AND THE DRIVER WOULD LOSE THE ABILITY TO STEER THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING INTERLOCK DEVICE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →