Nearly 550,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles around the world are being recalled due to a possible malfunction in the power steering. Most of the cars (about 447,000) were sold in the United States.

A possible malfunction, if not corrected, could make the power steering pump become defective, making turning and steering difficult. Models affected by the recall include the 2006 Highlander HV, 2004 Avalon, and the 2004-2005 Camry. Lexus models include the 2005 RX400h and the 2004-2005 RX330 and ES330.

Toyota has seen a drop in profits this year after announcing three recalls. From July to September, the automaker saw an 18.5% fall in profits. Earlier this year, Toyota and Lexus recalled nearly four million vehicles.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by an auto defect, contact the Green Bay auto defect lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C. at 800-242-2874.