Recall campaign

Recall 12V537000: Steering

Official campaign-level recall information with affected vehicle links and a VIN-first buyer check.

NHTSA recall 12V537000 data summary graphic
12V537000campaign
6affected model pages
14/11/2012recall date

Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA recall campaign records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.

Recall summary

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2009 Prius vehicles manufactured August 5, 2003, through March 30, 2009. The affected vehicles have a steering intermediate extension shaft assembly built with metal splines that complete the connection from the steering wheel to the steering gear. These splines may have been manufactured with an insufficient hardness.

Safety risk

Over time, the splines may wear and eventually fail resulting in a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the extension shaft and replace it if it is one with insufficient hardness, free of charge. The recall began during December 2012. Owners may contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

What to compare next

After checking this safety campaign, compare the same vehicle against manufacturer service bulletins, model-level owner complaint patterns and the used-car recall checklist.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall campaign 12V537000?

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2009 Prius vehicles manufactured August 5, 2003, through March 30, 2009. The affected vehicles have a steering intermediate extension shaft assembly built with metal splines that complete the connection from the steering wheel to the steering gear. These splines may have been manufactured with an insufficient hardness.

How do I know if this recall applies to my car?

Use the exact 17-character VIN. A campaign can affect only certain production ranges, trims or equipment configurations.

Are recall repairs free?

Safety recall remedies are generally performed by franchised dealers at no charge when the exact VIN is affected and the remedy is available.

Check the exact VIN before you buy

Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.

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