Ethanol leads to recall of some Lexus models

Ethanol fuel with low moisture content has the potential to corrode the inside of the fuel delivery pipes in some Lexus vehicles, including GS300/350, IS250/350, and LS460/460L models from 2006, 2007 and 2008 model years. The problem, which can create a pinhole leak in the pipes, has caused Lexus to announce a safety recall of about 214,500 vehicles. First-class letters will be sent to Lexus owners who might have vehicles that may be affected by this problem, and Lexus dealers will replace, at no charge, their pipes with newly-designed components. No other Lexus or Toyota vehicles are part of this recall. There's a phone number after the jump to call if you have questions.

[Source: Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.]

PRESS RELEASE:

Lexus Announces Safety Recall on Select Vehicles

TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. will launch a Safety Recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involving approximately 214,500 Lexus vehicles sold in the United States.

On certain 2006 through 2008 model year GS300/350, IS250/350, and LS460/460L vehicles, Lexus has determined that some ethanol fuels with a low moisture content may corrode the internal surface of the fuel delivery pipes. If this condition occurs, the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) in the combination meter may illuminate. Over time, the corrosion may create a pinhole in the fuel delivery pipes resulting in fuel leakage.

Lexus dealers will replace the fuel delivery pipes with newly designed components. No other Lexus or Toyota vehicles are involved.

Lexus will inform owners of the involved vehicles with a Safety Recall notification via first-class mail beginning in late January. Owners are requested to contact their local Lexus dealer for diagnosis and repair at no charge.

Customers with questions or concerns should contact the Lexus Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-255-3987.