Toyota has announced two recalls of popular vehicles for separate issues, one of which will affect more than 100,000 models and another that is restricted to just 50.

The big recall centers around used Toyota Priuses, specifically models from 2001 through 2003. Toyota has found that some versions of the popular hybrid may eventually lose their steering capability due to some screw in the steering column. Apparently, if a driver routinely makes hard left turns, the screws can become undone and it can be very difficult to turn the vehicle.

The degradation of steering ability comes over time, so it's not something sudden that will catch drivers unaware. Toyota says the recall affects 106,000 Priuses worldwide, including 52,000 in the U.S. Dealers will replace the screws affected by the issue with stronger screws that will eliminate the flaw. The repair is expected to take four hours.

In a separate recall, a very small portion of 2011 Venzas and Siennas are being called back for an issue related to the driveshaft. Toyota is going to look at 34 Venzas and 11 Siennas, but expects to just find 38 instances of the issue.

Drivers should keep up to date on recalls if they plan on shopping for a used car, and should be sure that the model they are considering purchasing has had all the proper maintenance work.