DEAR SUZANNE
By Suzanne Henderson
LETTER 228 – From Rachel S. from Pittsburgh, PA
Dear Suzanne,
I thought buying a 2023 Toyota RAV4 would be a safe, reliable choice. That’s what all the reviews said, anyway. But no one warned me that this car would feel like it’s driving itself.
At first, I thought I was imagining things—a slight pull to the right here, a hesitation in the steering there. I told myself I was just getting used to the car. But then it got worse. Much worse.
Now, I have a car that randomly drifts, wobbles on the highway, and sometimes refuses to turn properly. It’s like driving a stubborn child that only listens when it wants to. I don’t think I’ve ever gripped a steering wheel this tightly in my life.
The Car Thinks It’s in Charge
The first time I noticed something was off, I was cruising at 55 mph on my way to work. At first, it was subtle—just a slight pull to the right. But then I realized I was constantly correcting the steering, like the car had a mind of its own.
I tried to shake it off, thinking maybe the road was uneven. But then it happened again. And again.
By the end of the week, it became impossible to ignore. The steering felt loose, almost disconnected—like I wasn’t really in control. Sometimes, I’d turn the wheel, and there’d be a split-second delay before the car actually responded.
I took it to the Toyota dealership, where they gave me the usual:
“We don’t see anything wrong, but we’ll do an alignment just in case.”
I left hoping that would fix it. It didn’t.
The Steering Wheel That Locks Up
Then came the steering lock-ups.
The first time, I was pulling into my driveway. I turned the wheel, and for a moment, it froze in place. No movement. No response. Then, out of nowhere, it jerked free again.
It scared me, but I convinced myself it was a one-time glitch.
It wasn’t.
A few days later, I was making a left turn at an intersection when it happened again—this time with cars behind me. For two terrifying seconds, the wheel wouldn’t move. Then, it suddenly snapped loose, making me swerve slightly before I corrected it.
I went straight back to the dealership. This time, they finally admitted something was wrong. They replaced a steering column component and told me it was as good as new.
I barely made it a week before the same thing happened again.
Suspension Feels Like It’s Falling Apart
At this point, I already didn’t trust the steering, but then the suspension started acting up, too.
Every time I hit a bump, the car wobbles like a boat in rough water. The front end feels loose, and the RAV4 leans hard to one side when making turns.
I took it back to the dealership—again. Now they said it might be a shock absorber issue. So, they replaced a part, did another alignment, and reassured me that this time, the problem was definitely fixed.
It wasn’t.
Now, my car drives like it’s permanently in crosswinds, and Toyota acts like I’m the problem.
Three Trips to Toyota, No Real Fix
I’ve been back to the dealership three times. Each time, they act like it’s the first time they’ve heard about the issue. Each time, they slap on a quick fix and send me on my way.
But here I am, still gripping the wheel, still correcting the drift, still wondering if today is the day my RAV4 decides to stop listening to me.
I don’t feel safe driving this car anymore. I shouldn’t have to wonder if my steering will lock up in the middle of a turn.
Does Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law Apply to My Car?
I’ve reached my breaking point with this car. I’m done with the excuses and temporary fixes. I need to know if my RAV4 qualifies under Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law.
How many more times do they need to “repair” it before it’s officially a lemon? Am I entitled to a refund or a replacement? How do I go about filing a claim?
Please help me figure out my next steps, Suzanne. I can’t keep driving a car I don’t trust.
Rachel S. from Pittsburgh, PA
Editor’s Note: Letter has been edited for clarity, and personally identifiable details like names and actual locations have been changed to protect the letter sender’s privacy.
When Your 2023 Toyota RAV4 Won’t Steer Right, Lemon Law Could Set Things Straight
Dear Rachel,
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. You bought a brand-new car expecting safety and reliability, but instead, you’re dealing with a steering system that seems to have a mind of its own. I can only imagine how frustrating—and honestly, terrifying—it must feel to drive a car you can’t fully control. The good news is that Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law is designed for situations like this, and based on what you’ve described, you may have a strong case.
Before we get into the details, I want you to know you’re not alone in this. Many other car owners have been in your shoes, and there is a legal process in place to help. Let’s go over your questions one by one.
Does My RAV4 Qualify as a Lemon Under Pennsylvania Law?
Yes, your 2023 RAV4 may qualify as a lemon under Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law. Here’s the key requirement: your vehicle must have a serious defect that substantially impairs its use, safety, or value, and Toyota must have had a reasonable number of attempts to fix it—typically three repair attempts for the same issue, or 30 total days out of service.
From what you described, Toyota has already made multiple repair attempts on your steering and suspension issues, yet the problems persist. Steering failures and unpredictable handling are major safety concerns, which means your case is likely strong.
Am I Entitled to a Refund or Replacement?
If your RAV4 meets the requirements of the Pennsylvania Lemon Law, you are entitled to either a full refund or a replacement vehicle—whichever you prefer. Toyota doesn’t get to choose for you. Your refund would cover the purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and any other costs you incurred, minus a small deduction for mileage (but only up to 10% of the car’s price).
How Do I File a Lemon Law Claim?
The first step is to send Toyota a final repair request in writing. This lets them know you’re giving them one last chance to fix the issue before you move forward with legal action. Be sure to keep all records of your repair visits, invoices, and any communication with the dealership.
If they fail to fix the problem, you can file a formal Lemon Law claim, which may involve arbitration or a lawsuit to get the compensation you deserve. That’s where an experienced Lemon Law attorney can make all the difference.
Why You Should Speak to a Lemon Law Attorney
The manufacturer and its dealerships will do everything they can to avoid a buyback or replacement. A knowledgeable Lemon Law attorney can handle the legal process for you, making sure Toyota follows the law and compensates you fairly. Many attorneys offer free consultations and work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there’s no risk in getting expert advice.
It’s Time to Take Action
Rachel, you shouldn’t have to drive a car that makes you feel unsafe. You’ve given Toyota multiple chances to fix this, and they’ve failed. Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law is on your side, but taking the right steps now is key to getting the resolution you deserve.
I strongly encourage you to reach out to a Lemon Law attorney as soon as possible so they can review your case and help you move forward. You’ve put up with this long enough—it’s time for Toyota to make this right.
I’m rooting for you, and I hope you’re able to put this stressful situation behind you soon. Please keep me posted on what happens next!
Suzanne
Say Goodbye to Your 2023 Toyota RAV4 Lemon Car Troubles!
Dear reader, are your vehicle problems ruining your life? Confused about what legal route to take? We’re here to help! Find information about Texas’ lemon law protections here, fill out the form on this page, or give us a call at (833) 743-1990 to discuss your situation with someone who understands how frustrating it can be to have a lemon car, and what to do about it.
DEAR SUZANNE is a weekly column written by Suzanne Henderson and published in LemonLawyers.ORG. If you have a defective lemon vehicle and have questions about Pennsylvania Lemon Law or how to file a claim, please write to [email protected]. While not guaranteed, we will try to feature your letter in this column to provide you the answers you need, as well as enlighten other consumers who may have lemon problems similar to yours.
Disclaimer: Suzanne Henderson is not a lawyer and the points discussed here are intended for general information and reference purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice. Please consult a Pennsylvania Lemon Law Attorney to get proper legal advice about your lemon law claim.
Related Articles:
- Eligibility Criteria for Pennsylvania Lemon Law: Full Guide
- Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Lemon Law Claim in Pennsylvania
- Understanding Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law: Your Rights as a Consumer
Featured Images:
- 2023 Toyota RAV4 ©HJUdall (CC BY 1.0 Universal)
