Toyota Recalling 52,000 Prius Cars

TORRANCE, CA – Toyota announced a recall of 52,000 model-year 2001-2003 Prius vehicles sold in the U.S. to replace the electric power steering pinion shaft attachment nuts.

Toyota said if the steering wheel is repeatedly and turned strongly to the full-lock position, the nuts securing the pinion shaft in the steering gear box assembly can become loose. Over time, a driver may notice that steering when making a left turn will require more effort.

Dealers will install improved nuts to better secure the pinion shaft. There will be no charge for the service. The repair will take approximately four hours, depending on the dealer’s schedule, Toyota said.