Lexus recalls LS600h and LS460 over steering problems

As a result of customer feedback, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is preparing a recall of some Lexus LS 600h and LS 460 models equipped with the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS).

The precise number of cars involved is still being finalised but initial figures show approximately 11,500 vehicles are affected globally. Around 40 units are to be affected in the UK market, while only 3 units are affected in Germany. No numbers for Egypt or the Middle East have been released yet.

No other Lexus vehicles are affected by this issue.

This matter has been under investigation by TMC since March this year who have received approximately 10 complaints in Japan. No accidents have been reported relating to this issue and there are no reported cases of this concern in the UK or German market.

VGRS is a feature that enables easier handling during low-speed driving and provides better stability during high-speed driving than conventional steering by changing the gear ratio.

The problem occurs at low speed when manoeuvring the steering wheel to full lock position. If the driver then returns the steering wheel very fast, this could lead to a steering wheel off-centre condition even though the driving wheels would be straight. This phenomenon will be resolved automatically in a few seconds and the driver may notice this correction as the steering wheel centre moves slowly by itself to the centre position when driving straight during the correction operation. The driver remains in control of the vehicle as the steering wheel self corrects itself.

As a result of customer feedback, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is preparing a recall of some Lexus LS 600h and LS 460 models equipped with the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS).

The precise number of cars involved is still being finalised but initial figures show approximately 11,500 vehicles are affected globally. We are anticipating around 40 units to be affected in the UK market. No other Lexus vehicles are affected by this issue.

This matter has been under investigation by TMC since March this year who have received approximately 10 complaints in Japan. No accidents have been reported relating to this issue and we have received no reported cases of this concern in the UK market.

VGRS is a feature that enables easier handling during low-speed driving and provides better stability during high-speed driving than conventional steering by changing the gear ratio.

The problem occurs at low speed when manoeuvring the steering wheel to full lock position. If the driver then returns the steering wheel very fast, this could lead to a steering wheel off-centre condition even though the driving wheels would be straight. This phenomenon will be resolved automatically in a few seconds and the driver may notice this correction as the steering wheel centre moves slowly by itself to the centre position when driving straight during the correction operation. The driver remains in control of the vehicle as the steering wheel self corrects itself.

VOSA have been notified that a recall will be initiated in the UK.