Toyota Recalls 373,000 Avalon Models to Fix Steering Column
Just when Toyota‘s bad news seemed to have ceased, the Japanese automaker is announcing yet another recall – this time affecting 373,000 Avalon models in the United States. The vehicles included in the recall date from 2000-2004 and the issue involves the steering column, which could lock-up under cornering.
According to Toyota, a defect in the casting of the lock bar means that after repeated operation the lock pin could come loose and possibly line up with the corresponding lock hole. This could lead to a vehicle that either exhibits a locked steering wheel when parked, or possibly even during operation.
Toyota will replace a bracket on the steering column as a fix for the problem, with owners being notified by mail in late august.
Those with questions are asked to contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or visit www.toyota.com/recall.
Official release after the jump:
Toyota Announces Intent to Voluntarily Recall Certain Toyota Avalons to Replace Steering Column Bracket
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I had the bracket replaced on my 2003 Avalon. Steering is now more rigid, have heard occasional squeaking when backing out and my engine is now idiling harder. Key is harder to get in the ignition. would this repair interfere with the ECM, like cause a default?? I am sorry that I had this recall done, my car is not the same. I just had a new ECM installed last Feb. b/c of engine pinging and rough idling.