Sponsored message
Logged in as
Audience-funded nonprofit news
radio tower icon laist logo
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Subscribe
  • Listen Now Playing Listen

This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

News

Toyota Recalls 106,000 Early Prius Models to "Install Improved Nuts"

prius.jpg
2002 Prius photo by jcarwil via flickr.

One year ago, Congress defunded public media. Now that we're 100% community funded, please become a sustaining member or increase your existing membership today.

As Toyota celebrates the tenth anniversary of the Prius, early models of the hybrid vehicle are being recalled for a steering fix.

52,000 first generation Prii sold in the U.S., model year 2001 - 2003, are part of a global recall of 106,000 cars, Toyota announced on Wednesday. The voluntary recall will fix a steering problem that could make it difficult for drivers to maneuver the car when turning left, reports Inside Line.

"If the steering wheel is repeatedly and strongly turned to the full-lock position, there is a possibility the nuts securing the pinion shaft in the steering gear box assembly may become loose," said Toyota in a news release. "Toyota dealers will install improved nuts that secure the pinion shaft at no charge to the vehicle owner. The repair will take approximately 4 hours depending upon the dealer's work schedule."

Owners of 2001-'03 model year Priuses should look into upgrading to the 2012 line receive a recall notice in the mail in the coming weeks or call Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

One year ago, Congress voted to defund public media, eliminating a critical $1.7 million from our budget every year going forward. But they couldn’t silence us, and we’re not going anywhere. LAist is now 100% community funded and that means we’re taking our future into our own hands and turning to you to keep local reporting strong.

You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our nonprofit newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our communities. We are free to follow facts wherever they lead and to hold power to account without fear or favor. Our only loyalty is to our readers and listeners and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen Southern California’s communities.

If this story helped you, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief

Make your tax-deductible donation today