Component
STEERING
Manufacturer
TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
What Happened
The steering lock bar in your Avalon is a small metal piece that helps lock your steering wheel when you shut off the engine. Sometimes, this part can develop a tiny crack that spreads over time, making it break.
Risk if Unfixed
If the steering lock bar breaks, your steering wheel will lock, and you won't be able to control your vehicle. This could cause a crash.
Free Fix
Your Toyota dealer will replace the faulty steering interlock device with a new one, free of charge. You should schedule the repair as soon as possible.
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 →