Steering Column problems of the 2002 Toyota Avalon

2002 Toyota Avalon was repaired due to recall on steering column. After repair, I was able to turn off ignition while car was in drive mode. Which safety defect is worse?.

The contact owns a 2002 Toyota Avalon. While driving at any speed, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. When the steering is operative, it is very erratic and hard to control. The steering wheel over compensates and caused several near crashes. The contact took his vehicle to the dealer and they identified the failure as the steering knuckles. The dealer also stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. The vehicle is currently at the dealer for repair. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 42,213 and the current mileage was unavailable because the vehicle is at the dealer.

I've had my 2002 Toyota Avalon since it had about 25,500 miles. It now has about 77500. From the start of owning the car, the tires were worn as if the car was not aligned properly. We had it aligned at a reputable company, purchased top of the line michelin tires. They wore incorrectly just as the first ones on the car when we bought it in spite of property rotating of them, etc. Last Nov or so, we replaced the tires again which should have lasted much longer than they did. Again, the tires are wearing improperly. We have had the car aligned no less than once per year. Another issue is the steering. If you barely move the steering wheel it "overcorrects". I've learned to drive it carefully with this issue, but every person who has driven is astounded at their first experience. I've sending this now because I received a recall on the steering column and telephoned the dealer to ask if this is why it is recalled. He said it isn't. Therefore, I think someone should be aware of these issues with this vehicle. Other than these items, the car has been a great vehicle.