Toyota is recalling almost 423,000 of its Lexus luxury brand cars in the United States and 19,000 in Canada due to a fuel leak that may cause fire.
The recall covers three different models: the 2006 to 2011 GS, 2007 to 2010 LS and 2006 to 2011 IS.
These vehicles have fuel lines that are built with nickel phosphate plating to protect against corrosion. Some lines could have been built with particles coming in contact with a gasket. That can cause the sealing property to deteriorate and trigger fuel leaks, which could potentially lead to fire.
Toyota claims that it is not aware of any fires or injuries as a result of this problem.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documented that this issue was first investigated back in June 2010. Toyota investigated a customer report of a gasoline odour coming from a customer’s engine compartment, but didn’t find the cause until this year. The Japanese automaker decided to issue the recall in October.
Dealers will repair the gasket seating surface at no charge to the customer.
Some of the affected vehicles were also recalled in 2009 to fix leaks in aluminum fuel pipes.
Toyota remains the global vehicle sales leader, known for the reliability and longevity of its products. It’s unlikely that this hiccup will affect this.
The entire 2014 year has been filled with automotive recalls. Some of the standouts are the GM ignition switch and Takata airbag recalls.
Those with questions about the Lexus recall can contact Toyota at 1-800-265-3987.
