One problem related to steering is tight has been reported for the 2004 Toyota Highlander. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Toyota Highlander based on all problems reported for the 2004 Highlander.
2004 Toyota Highlander began making a noise which could be felt in the steering wheel, particularly when turning or going over a bump at slow speed. Toyota has a TSB out on this but it is not know to owners, and is not well know at the dealership. This despite hundreds if not thousands of complaints on the web. Furthermore, Toyota reps and the dealer's service writers will tell you face to face it is not a safety issue, but won't put it in writing. When the problem was finally repaired by replacement of the steering shaft, I became aware that prior to the repairs the car was pulling to the left and the steering wheel was hard to turn as the vehicle now track straight and the wheel easy to turn. With such symptoms I feel very strongly that Toyota should be compelled to notify vehicle owners.