Toyota Prius Recalled for Steering Problem

Just the Facts:

• Toyota is recalling 106,000 2001-'03 Prius hybrids globally for a steering problem that could make it difficult for drivers to maneuver the car when turning left.
• Toyota said the recall involves 52,000 cars in the U.S.
• In a separate action, Toyota also is recalling a few 2011 Venza AWD and Sienna AWD vehicles because the front right-hand driveshaft may break.

TORRANCE, California — Toyota is recalling 106,000 2001-'03 Prius hybrids globally for a steering problem that could make it difficult for drivers to maneuver the car when turning left.

Toyota said the recall involves 52,000 cars in the U.S.

"If the steering wheel is repeatedly and strongly turned to the full-lock position, there is a possibility the nuts securing the pinion shaft in the steering gear box assembly may become loose," said Toyota in a statement on Wednesday. "If the vehicle is continuously operated in this condition, over time, the customer will gradually notice significant increased steering effort when making a left turn."

Toyota dealers will install improved nuts that secure the pinion shaft. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had not posted any information about the Prius recall as of Wednesday morning.

In the U.S. and Canada, Toyota also recalled 34 2011 Venza and 16 Sienna vehicles to replace an insufficiently treated driveshaft. The driveshaft could break, causing the vehicle to stall, said Toyota in a statement.

Toyota owners can contact the automaker at 1-800-331-4331.

Over the last two years, Toyota has announced massive recalls of more than 14 million vehicles.

Inside Line says: If you own one of the aforementioned Toyota vehicles, be aware that a recall is in the works.