2009 Toyota Avalon steering problems

Filed Sep 20, 2025 · Steering · AL

The steering latch to adjust steering wheel unlocks while I’m driving causing my steering wheel to drop literally while I’m driving.

Filed Aug 13, 2022 · Steering · NC

The steering wheel telescoping lever is faulty in that it will loosen in its own causing the steering wheel to lunge forward toward the dash unexpectedly with little pressure while driving.

Filed Oct 27, 2020 · Steering · CA

The telescopic steering column adjustment lever will not stay secure and comes loose frequently while driving allowing the steering column to collapse in or pull out. This is a safety concern I reported to my toyota dealer (gilroy toyota - gilroy, ca) in july of 2019 when taking the car in to have the AC blower motor repaired and asking for a solution. After multiple calls I finally gave up. Now I'm back talking to the dealer regarding a recall on my 2018 highlander and asking them again about a fix for my steering column. They now inform me of a known issue with the telescopic lever detent clip and a technical service bulletin tsb-0147-13 and also that toyota had a warranty enhancement program - zty to address it which expired in september of 2019. The dealer now tells me they can not help since it has expired and gave me the number for toyota customer care 1‑800‑331‑4331 but they refuse to help. This is a safety issue but there has been no recall and I was never notified of the warranty enhancement program so I'm now stuck with an unsafe vehicle. I don't understand how this is not a safety recall that toyota should continue to stand behind. Do I have any recourse at all?

Filed Oct 16, 2019 · Steering · 105,130 miles · TX

While driving down the highway the at 70 MPH telescopic steering wheel collapsed.

Filed Aug 20, 2017 · Steering · 95,000 miles · TX

Three times while driving, the latch that controls the steering wheel has failed. The steering wheel drops all the way against the dashboard to the lowest position. This always occurs when driving. Making controlling the car difficult. The fix is to replace the entire steering column for over $1200.

Filed Apr 1, 2016 · Steering · 85,000 miles · OK

My 2009 toyota now has 85000 miles on it and I have just been told that there is a problem with a torn cv and power steering boot along with a return hose. The power steering unit is leaking and the price tag to repair these items is $1912.21. In reading my consumer reports trouble spot report I see that this has been a problem for other owners from 2007 through 2010 and I am surprised that toyota has not resolved this problem by issuing a recall for that specific defect.

Filed Mar 7, 2015 · Electrical, Steering · 44,101 miles · AL

The horn works when it wants to and the steering wheel sometimes moves. The car sits lower than it should causing the tires to scrape.

Filed Oct 30, 2014 · Steering · 22,402 miles · TX

Steering placement lock came loose while driving and steering column dropped to lowest level. This has happened 3 other times in city traffic. Trying to tighten the steering placement friction lock only seems to hold temporarily.

Filed Apr 9, 2014 · Steering · MO

Steering wheel column collapses unexpectedly under normal driving conditions. Culprit is the adjustment friction lever becomes disengaged and allows the steering column to collapse. This happens repeatedly no matter how much one ensures it is tightened. Dealer agreed to fix under extended warranty but took almost 6 months to get part. It appeared that toyota kept canceling the part order although I was told plenty of parts were in inventory in kansas city. (service person said maybe toyota was holding parts due to a recall but could not find that to be the case.) eventually, after the part was ordered the third time, and presumably prodded by the dealership, the part was delivered and subsequently installed. I am concerned the problem will reappear over time.

Filed Apr 6, 2014 · Steering · 56,000 miles · LA

Lever dropped holding the collapsing steering column in place. Has been doing so fairly regularly since. I consider this a design defect. The toyota dealer states that only a new steering column will correct the problem at a cost of more than $1100.00. I note that there are other identical complaints, and since this is considered a significant safety issue, there should be a recall of affected autos.