Lexus plans to recall 4,500 Lexus vehicles in Japan and another 7,000 overseas could be affected.
The problem is a computerised steering problem. Lexus has received 12 complaints about the problem within Japan. But the company is saying they know of no accidents the problem has caused worldwide.
The latest issue affects Toyota's luxury Lexus "LS" line, and involves a computerised system that oversees how the steering wheel controls the tyres.
Japan's transportation ministry has received reports of problems in which steering does not work temporarily due to a malfunction in the electric control system
The models in question were sold in the United States, Europe and China as well as Japan.
The models covered by the recall are the LS460 and LS460L, and hybrids LS600h and LS600hL.
A statement from Lexus Ireland said the following:
"The recall of certain Lexus LS models, as carried by International News Wire Services today, will involve a total of three (3) vehicles in Ireland.
The recall relates to a computer hardware issue controlling the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) system in the vehicles, which enables easier handling during low-speed driving and provides better stability during high speed driving than conventional steering, by changing the ratio. The VGRS system may, in rare instances, exhibit a temporary steering wheel off-centre condition after driving away from a very tight turn where the steering was at the full lock position. This off-centre position will automatically be corrected by the VGRS system as the vehicles proceeds (taking approx 1 to 3 seconds)
The correction will require the replacement of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in each of the 3 affected vehicles."