general problems of the 2005 Toyota Tacoma - part 2

I noticed occasional stiff steering for a few months which gradually became worse with time. Eventually seemed like complete loss of power assist steering. I found that it was the intermediate shaft which contains a universal joint that had become seized. I had this intermediate shaft part replaced at a total cost of $885. 00. The new part ordered from Toyota was different from the original in that the new part had a boot protecting the universal from dirt dust and debris.

Within a year of purchase, the rear leaf springs became soft and the truck bottomed out on bumps. I took it to a local dealer (haddads, pittsfield, MA) and they refused to service it claiming nothing was wrong. I later took it to a springfield dealership and received the same answer. I then took it to superior spring in pittsfield. They found both springs were broken and had to be replaced. I called Toyota and they refused to honor the warranty, claiming I had over loaded the truck. I had not ever carried more than a few hundred lbs in the bed of this 1/2 ton truck. I have owned the truck since new and been the sole operator. A few weeks ago the steering became sticky. My mechanic replaced the steering shaft at a cost of $400. He stated that Toyota should recall the vehicle for this because he sees this part fail often due to poor construction. Also, the frame on this truck has significant rust already and does not look like it will outlast the body and drive train. I'm not pleased.

Less than one year after purchase the rear leaf springs failed on both sides. Two dealers plus Toyota headquarters refused service, so I had to pay for a private spring shop to replace them. They have since been recalled but to date I have not received reimbursement. In 2014 the steering shaft had to be replaced and at the same time the frame was determined corroded beyond repair. Toyota made promise to replace the frame under recall in Nov 2014 but to date has not delivered and has not indicated when I can expect the repair to be made. For over six months now I have been left with an unsafe vehicle that I can't sell or replace.

I have a 2005 Toyota Tacoma trd 4x4 they have replaced my front wheel bearings 6 times know my front diff, the transmission once and my rear end.

Steering wheel shacks from approximately 62 to 75 miles per hour. Have had the vehicle to the dealer twice. They told me that they can not find the problem and that the shacking is not a safety consern. The second visit to the dealer they had the vehicle for 3 days. Vehicle has 1700 miles.