Lexus is preparing to issue a recall of Lexus LS models equipped with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS):
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.
This recall affects approximately 11,500 units worldwide (3,800 in the USA, 4,500 units in Japan, 70 in the UK, with the remainder spread through other markets), and includes the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600h & LS 600hL.
[Source: Bloomberg & Lexus UK]
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