Recall 12V537000

STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT SECTOR

Report Date
20121114
Component
STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT SECTOR
Affected Vehicles
6 models

Defect Description

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2009 Prius vehicles manufactured August 5, 2003, through March 30, 2009. The affected vehicles have a steering intermediate extension shaft assembly built with metal splines that complete the connection from the steering wheel to the steering gear. These splines may have been manufactured with an insufficient hardness.

Safety Consequence

Over time, the splines may wear and eventually fail resulting in a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the extension shaft and replace it if it is one with insufficient hardness, free of charge. The recall began during December 2012. Owners may contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Affected Vehicles

Year Make Model
2004 TOYOTA PRIUS
2005 TOYOTA PRIUS
2006 TOYOTA PRIUS
2007 TOYOTA PRIUS
2008 TOYOTA PRIUS
2009 TOYOTA PRIUS

Check your vehicle: Visit NHTSA.gov and enter your VIN to see if your specific vehicle is affected.