2005 Toyota Sienna: loss of power steering

Filed Nov 7, 2016 · Steering · NJ

My steering has been getting stiff for the past few weeks. About a month I noticed that my steering was stiff and then smooth a few days later. Now it feels stiff at cold start and even after warm up from normal driving. I have new belts and no power steering fluid leak. I've read many blogs online and people claiming that the (u-joint) aka "steering knuckle" is the cause. Due to water/dirt/salt from the road - causing rust on the u-joint. Toyota manufacturer should have thought of installing a rubber boot to protect the u-joint from exposure of weather elements. If the u-joint is badly rusted, it can break off and cause an accident. This should be considered as a safety recall.

Filed Oct 8, 2016 · Steering · 112,000 miles · AK

Steering has become intermittently stiff. Steering wheel doesn't self center. It's difficult to turn the wheel either way. After turning the wheel very hard, it suddenly becomes easy. This phenomenon occurs when the vehicle is stationary, and at all speeds. The problem started approximately two months ago, and has gotten progressively worse. The power steering pump is working properly, the belt is in good condition, there are no power steering fluid leaks and the power steering fluid level is correct.

Filed Apr 21, 2015 · Steering · 95,000 miles · NH

2005 toyota sienna: power steering fails intermittently, resulting in a loss of power steering and sudden increase in steering effort, increasing the risk of a crash. Driver is at risk if sudden steering away from an event is necessary due to the effort and inconsistent nature of the steering. There are many complaints about this that can be found on various forums on the internet. It is a serious problem that should not be ignored and should be addressed before rather than after someone dies as a result of this vehicle fault.

Filed Apr 17, 2011 · Steering · 40,000 miles · MA

Less than a year ago my power steering became stiff. Changed pump as it seemed to burn out at 40,000 miles also changed belts. Less than a year later the stiffness is back and the pump and belts are fine. Starting a 33,000 miles and 3 years I have had to change sliding door motor, struts on back door, steering pump,middle seat belts along with other things. I find that this van is not built for the safety of my children and toyota does nothing about this. I am seeing that a lot of their sienna seem to have the same problem. It is a 2005 sienna with 52,000 miles.

Filed Jul 23, 2010 · Steering · 88,000 miles · MA

I noticed that occasionally the steering would be a little stiff. Then the steering became very stiff when turning. Often the steering would jerk to one side or another leading to the car moving suddenly. The car is not drivable now. The entire steering shaft is being replaced at an approximate cost of $1500.

Filed Feb 27, 2010 · Steering · 100,516 miles · RI

Steering problems. Steering shaft assembly had to be replaced. Steering was difficult and sometimes would turn to sharply.