The larger recall of the two stems from the possibility that the nuts securing the pinion shaft for the steering box assembly could become loose from repeated full-lock turning of the steering wheel. The automaker says that over time the driver should notice an increased amount of effort required when turning left.
The second recall - unrelated to the Prius recall - involves just 50 examples (combined) of the 2011 Venza and Sienna. The only affected models are equipped with all-wheel drive, which resulted in 34 Venzas and 16 Siennas being recalled for the faulty front right-hand driveshaft. Toyota says that the driveshafts were not properly heat-treated and will need to be replaced as there is a possibility they can break - causing the vehicle to coast to a stop.
Toyota will be notifying owners beginning tomorrow via certified mail.
