In official statements, Toyota said that there had been no reported crashes linked to the current steering and pump flaws, but said of the steering flaw that the defect could cause " knocking or rattling and possibly a reduction in steering response. "
Reports made by the Aichi Prefecture-based firm to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on Wednesday stated that the intermediate shaft which connects the steering wheel and the gearbox is potentially not strong enough and if worn down could impair steering function.
In Toyota's hybrid models, which include its ubiquitous Prius, the defect in the hybrid system involves the electric water in the water pump, which may stop functioning, the company said.
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