Toyota Recalls 11,500 Lexus LS Models Worldwide

HONG KONG May 19, 2010; V. Phani Kumar writing for MarketWatch reported that Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it plans to recall as many as 11,500 Lexus LS model vehicles worldwide, including 4,500 vehicles in Japan, to fix a problem with the computerized steering system, according to reports.

The auto giant, which has recalled more than 8.5 million vehicles worldwide so far this year, has received 12 complaints about the problem within Japan, the Associated Press reported, citing company spokesman Paul Nolasco.

The problem involves a computerized system that oversees the steering controls. The steering system is a standard fitting on the LS luxury model sold in Japan, but is optional in some cars sold overseas, according to the AP.