Steering Rack And Pinion problems of the 2002 Toyota Tacoma

I recently took my 2002 Toyota Tacoma into the local dealer, dch in wappingers falls NY, because of leak in the rack and pinion steering. Upon looking at the vehicle,they observed a cracked and rusted frame. We took the car down and I went to my local repair shop for a second opinion. That repair shop had said there was a frame recall for that year. I called Toyota in California and they confirmed there was a recall for that year and that they sent out a notice, but it had to be brought by the end of 2012. I told them I never received the notice. There have been 2 other recalls for the vehicle which I did receive notices. They checked with their compliance office and said they did send it to me. I asked how many notices went out and they said one and they do not send them certified mail. When I stated that I never received the notice, they told there was a department that may still be able to assist me. After opening up a case with Toyota, they came to the conclusion, there was nothing they can do about it because I failed to bring the car in by their deadline. I told them again that I never received the notice and that I don't feel safe driving the vehicle with a rusted and cracked frame. This seems to be problem with a good deal of Toyotas. I was hoping for some kind of help, since they've admitted the problem and I never received the notice and we, at this point have only their word that they sent me a notice. Thank you. Toyota case# 1405131065. Updated 07/03/14.

Noticed abnormal tire wear on front tire. Took vehicle in for wheel alignment and was informed the bushing, integral to rack and pinion has failed. As a consequence the whole rack and pinion steering system needs replacing. Mechanic informed me this is a common problem for Toyota Tacoma. He also informed me he has had Tacomas with as little as 9000 miles having this problem. My Tacoma has 19000 miles on it, I guess we are lucky. He also stated he did not understand why there has not been a recall. Apparently it is a common defect. This Tacoma has never been off road or otherwise abused since we bought it new. This problem could lead to steering failure.