general problems of the 1998 Toyota Sienna

Steering component that breaks, causing a driver to lose control.

When making left turns, steering wheel often "hangs" (doesn't smoothly return to center position), requiring constant vigilance to avoid collision or loss of control. This was reported to dealer at first service after purchase, and I have requested information as to a "fix" several occassions, most recently with derby at star Toyota on 4/7/04. Stated "never heard of the problem". I am aware that there is a TSB on this issue however, and would very much like this problem resolved after 5+ years. Additionally, the car goes through tires like crazy. . . Perhaps related to this pull to the left? I've put on a complete new set plus 2 tires in the 50k miles I've had the vehicle.

After decelerating exiting off a freeway ramp and making a left or right turn, the steering wheel would lock up momentarily and then disengage.

I bought a Toyota Sienna my 98 brand new in may 1998 and still own it. This car also has demonstrated a similar problem ever since I bought the car veering to right. The driver has to constantly correct the steering in order to keep the car moving straight. Even after three attempts in 98, 99, and 2000, respectively, were made to address this problem by a Toyota dealer (copy of the paperwork can be furnished upon request), the problem has yet been corrected successfully as of today. This problem increases driving fatigue especially long trips and in turn may increase the chance of auto accidents.

Vehicle skidded @40-45 mph on wet surface, causing driver to loose control.

Steering has a moderate pull and drifts to the right at all speeds. After two alignments, dealer stated that front wheel drive vehicles pull because of differential torque.

Transmission and alignment problems.