The problem
On certain sport utility vehicles, due to a manufacturing issue in the front suspension lower ball joint, there is a possibility that the surface of the ball of the joint May have been scratched. The ball joint May eventually experience excessive wear and looseness, resulting in increased steering effort.
The risk
The lower ball joint May separate from the knuckle causing loss of steering control and a crash could occur.
The fix
Dealers will replace the front suspension lower ball joints free of charge. The recall began on July 5, 2005. Owners May contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 05V-225 (05V225000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 50J |
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint |
| Report date | May 17, 2005 |
| Owners notified | July 5, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 768,379 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
- 2001 Toyota 4Runner suspension problems 27
- 2002 Toyota 4Runner suspension problems 49
- 2002 Toyota Sequoia suspension problems 50
- 2003 Toyota Sequoia suspension problems 40
- 2004 Toyota Sequoia suspension problems 47
- 2001 Toyota Tacoma suspension problems 81
- 2002 Toyota Tacoma suspension problems 82
- 2003 Toyota Tacoma suspension problems 66
- 2004 Toyota Tacoma suspension problems 84
- 2002 Toyota Tundra suspension problems 81
- 2003 Toyota Tundra suspension problems 63
- 2004 Toyota Tundra suspension problems 152
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 05V-225 repair free?
Yes. Toyota dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the front suspension lower ball joints free of charge. The recall began on July 5, 2005. Owners May contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 768,379 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.