In the affected vehicles, moisture contamination in the power-steering control module could cause the relay to short circuit. A loss of power-steering assist and an increase in steering effort at lower speeds could result. “If this condition should occur, the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) warning light on the instrument panel will illuminate and a buzzer will sound to alert the driver that the system is not operating as designed,” Toyota said in a statement.
Toyota will notify affected owners through the mail, and dealers will inspect and replace the affected parts for free. The automaker has not yet provided a notification scheduled, but owners can call Toyota at 800-331-4331 for more info.
News Editor Jennifer Geiger joined the automotive industry in 2003, much to the delight of her Corvette-obsessed dad. Jennifer is an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. She wears a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan.