Component
STEERING
Manufacturer
TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
Your Avalon's steering lock bar is a crucial part that helps keep your steering wheel locked when you turn off the engine. Unfortunately, some 2000-2004 models have a flaw in the manufacturing process that could cause a tiny crack to form on the surface of this bar.
Risk if Unfixed
If the steering lock bar breaks while you're driving, your steering wheel could lock up, and you'll lose control of your vehicle. This could lead to a serious accident.
Free Fix
Your Toyota dealer will replace the faulty steering interlock device with a new one, free of charge. You should schedule this repair as soon as possible and don't hesitate to contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 if you have any questions.
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.
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Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →