Recall Alert: 2000 - 2004 Toyota Avalon
Jul 29, 2010
Toyota is issuing a voluntary recall of 373,000 2000 through 2004 Avalon sedans.
In a press release, Toyota says the recall is so the company can "address the possibility that the vehicle’s steering lock bar could break under certain conditions."
USA Today explains that "problems with the Avalon's steering lock bar could lead to a tiny crack on the surface of the bar. Over time, the crack may get bigger, eventually resulting in a broken bar. When that happens, it becomes difficult to unlock the steering wheel when the car is not moving."
The problem isn't just when the Avalon is stationary. "Toyota says that if the break occurs while the vehicle is being driven, and with the steering wheel turned to the right, a chain of events could result in a fully locked steering wheel while in motion, greatly increasing the chance of an accident," writes Left Lane News.
As dire as having the steering wheel lock while driving is, Autoblog says, "For its part, Toyota says it is unaware of any crashes stemming from the Avalon's steering interlock issue, and it will replace the steering column bracket in affected vehicles for free."
Consumers who own 2000 through 2004 Toyota Avalons should contact Toyota, either though their recall website,
Toyota Recall Information ? 2009-2010 Toyota Recall List, or by calling the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
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