Toyota Recall Attorney: Avalon Steering Column Recall Issued

There is another Toyota safety recall, this time for the Toyota Avalon model.  This recall was announced yesterday, on Thursday July 29, 2010.  Toyota estimates that about 373,000 Avalons are involved in the recall, which affects vehicles in the model years 2000-2004.

Three crashes related to this recall have been reported to Toyota so far.

Why is the Toyota Avalon being recalled?

According to Toyota, Avalons manufactured from 2000-2004 have steering lock bars which may have been cast incorrectly (steering lock bars are part of the vehicle’s steering interlock system).  Because of the improper casting, very small cracks could develop on the surface of the bar, and over time expand.  If the crack expands enough, the steering lock bar could break.

How would you know if this happened to you?  If your steering lock bar were to break, it could be difficult to unlock your parked Avalon’s steering system.  If you were driving your Avalon when this happen – a less common occurrence – the steering wheel could lock.

Is there a fix for this Toyota Avalon steering issue?

There is a fix for this recall issue.  Owners will be notified of the recall starting in late August of this  year.  They will be asked to take their Avalon to the dealer to have the steering column bracket replaced for no cost.

Unless an auto accident is properly investigated, it can be hard to know if a manufacturing defect like the one described above played a part in the crash.  If you suspect that a Toyota recall problem led to your Texas car wreck, don’t hesitate to contact our office immediately for help.