Handling problem in 2-wheel-drive Toyota 4Runners prompts recall

WASHINGTON - Toyota is recalling nearly 274,000 4Runner sport utility vehicles because of a handling problem.<br> <br> The vehicles can be difficult to control if they are overloaded and the driver makes a hard turn, Toyota spokesman John Hanson said. The problem was discovered during vehicle testing, and the company is not aware of it happening on the road, he said.<br> <br> The recall, announced Wednesday by the federal auto safety regulators, covers the 1996-1998 model years. The problem only affects the two-wheel-drive models. Hanson said Toyota is recalling the four-wheel-drive versions to avoid confusion.<br> <br> Owners will be notified by mail and dealers will replace the rear springs and other parts of the rear suspension free of charge.<br> <br>