stiff steering

would like to find out if anyone else has had the same problem and and found a solution.
2016 SR5 premium.

Steering becomes stiff when breaking and turning and accelerating, only happens intermittently. any help would be appreciated.

 

^One of the joints in the front suspension is probably worn. No way to isolate it though aside from disconnecting each joint and checking by hand. Could be upper or lower ball joint, outer tie rod joint, or sway bar link joints. If any of the joint boots are cut and leaking grease, start with replacing those joints/parts.

 

welcome

 

Maybe the context above threw me, Are you attempting to start a doughnut/drift or is it "The steering gets stiff intermittently when braking, turning or accelerating?"

 

Are you in 4WD?

 

no not in 4 wheel drive, regular street driving. becomes stiff under normal driving circumstances, turning, braking and sometimes when accelerating.

 

Welcome

 

Welcome.

 

Have you checked your power steering fluid?

 

Power steering fluid is good and has been exchanged. I believe the problem may lie in the steering shaft at the knuckle, the intermediate shaft. if i spray the joint with penetrating oil it seem to help the problem.

 

^You mean the U-joint on the steering shaft forward of the firewall? Order the Toyota OEM part internationally: https://partsouq.com/en/search/all?q=4520360181

Or pay twice as much at your dealer: https://autoparts.toyota.com/products/product/shaft-sub-assy-strg-intermediate-no-2-4520360181

Can also try no-name aftermarket:

$60 Bruce & Shark Lower Intermediate Steering Shaft Column Fits for Toyota 4Runner 2010-2021, for Lexus Gx460 2010-2021,Replace #4520360181 4520360180

https://www.amazon.com/Bruce-Shark-Intermediate-4520360181-4520360180/dp/B0CFQWTTQN/