Toyota recall over half a million cars due to potential steering problem

Toyota are recalling over half a million cars due to problems which could make them more difficult to steer. The recall affects 447,000 cars in North America as well as 38,000 in Japan, 25,000 in Australia and New Zealand. 14,000 cars are affected in Europe, with another 10,000 in the Middle East and 14,000 outside Asia.

Toyota have been receiving reports regarding the defect which dates back to 2007. There have been no reports of injuries or accidents relating to the problems according to a Toyota spokesman.

This is the latest in a series of recalls for Toyota and a total of 14 million cars have been affected over the last two years, indicating some potential concerns with quality control during the build phase. They are facing damage lawsuits in America.

The news comes at a bad time, as Toyota said in their July to September profit slid 18.5 percent to 80.4 billion yen to declining sales caused in part by the tsunami in Japan.

The recall is due to the possibility that the outer ring of the engine's crankshaft pulley may become misaligned with the inner ring, causing noises or a warning signal to light up, according to the press release. If this problem isn't fixed then the belt for the power steering pump may become detached from the pulley making it harder to steer the car. We aren't sure if the problem is severe enough to potential cause accidents, but Toyota issuing a recall means it might be more serious than first imagined.

The Washington Post have details on the cars being recalled “In the United States, the automaker is recalling 283,200 Toyota brand cars, including the 2004 and 2005 Camry, Highlander, Sienna and Solara, the 2004 Avalon and the 2006 Highlander HV. Its recall of 137,000 Lexus vehicles includes the 2004 and 2005 ES330 and RX330 and 2006 RX400h.

Those affected elsewhere include certain models of the Alphard, Highlander, Highlander hybrid and some Lexus models”

Kitguru says: If you have one of these cars it is worth speaking to your Toyota dealer.

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