Alphard hard steering and vibration

I also drive an Alphard and experienced comparable symptoms. Increased steering effort and steering wheel vibrations suggest a malfunction within the steering column or related sensors. Ensure your wheel alignment is correct, as alignment problems can affect automotive sensors, potentially interfering with traction control and inducing such behavior.

Thanks for the quick response! When you say 'alignment problems', are we talking specifically about wheel alignment, or something deeper within the steering column itself? Was your issue definitely the steering angle sensor? I just want to be sure before I start tearing things apart.

Yes, the root cause was indeed a faulty steering angle sensor; specifically, its coding was corrupted. Considering the symptoms and the potential mileage effect on sensor wear, consulting a workshop capable of diagnosing and recalibrating the sensor is advisable to resolve any steering-related anomalies.

Thanks a lot for confirming that! I'll take it to a trusted mechanic and get the steering angle sensor checked and re-coded. Turns out the repair cost was around 195€. Hopefully, that solves the issue!