The problem
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, if the steering wheel is repeatedly turned under certain conditions where high steering effort and power assist are required, for instance, when fully turning the wheel while the vehicle is stopped, a fatigue crack May develop in the steering relay rod.
The risk
If the vehicle is continued to be operated in this condition, the relay rod May fracture, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the steering relay rod. The recall began October 5, 2005. Owners May contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 05V-389 (05V389000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 50N |
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Steering › Linkages › Rod › Relay › Connecting |
| Report date | September 6, 2005 |
| Owners notified | October 5, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 977,839 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 05V-389 repair free?
Yes. Toyota dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the steering relay rod. The recall began October 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 977,839 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.