May 30, 2006
Toyota is recalling the Prius hybrid car to fix a fault that could cause drivers to lose steering control.
The Japanese automaker has announced that the worldwide recall applies to the second-generation model of the hybrid car and covers vehicles made between July 2003 and December 2005.
Toyota says that the recall applies only to cars with power steering. The fault lies in a steering shaft, which Toyota says could crack if the steering wheel is turned forcefully or if the car is driven onto the curbing while parking.
Toyota reports that the steering problem in the Pius is likely to first appear as a rattle or knocking sound from the steering gear.
According to the recall notice: "In the worst case, if the vehicle continues to be operated under these conditions, the steering connection may separate or fracture, which could result in loss of steering."
Toyota dealers will replace the part at no cost and the work will take about one hour.
