Lexus recalls 10,800 cars

This year was already the biggest in terms of both global and Australian automotive safety recalls, and now Lexus has made it bigger by recalling about 10,800 previous-generation vehicles Down Under due to a potential fuel system leak.

Affected models include the LS, GS and IS sedans, the IS 250C coupe-convertible and IS F sports sedan built between September 2005 and August 2010.

The recall is part of a global action involving more than 1.75 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles, but only the Japanese giant's premium brand is affected here.

Other models included overseas are the Crown and Crown Majesta sedans and Noah and Voxy people-movers built between June 2007 and June 2012, while a further 190,000 Rumion (sold here as Rukus) and Auris (Corolla) vehicles have been recalled in Japan to fix fuel leaks linked to emission control systems.

Lexus Australia says the recall is “due to the possibility that the sealing property of the gasket between the fuel pressure sensor and the fuel delivery pipe could become degraded.

“If this occurs, fuel could leak past the gasket during vehicle operation, potentially increasing the risk of a fire hazard.”

No accidents, injuries or fires have been reported in Australia due to the problem.

Lexus says it will fit a new fuel pressure sensor gasket in affected vehicles – a process that will take between three to four hours to complete.

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail but can call Lexus customer assistance on 1800 023 009 for further details.