Toyota recalls Lexus cars in Japan, U.S. to follow

TOKYO (AP) — Toyota Motor Corp. began a recall today of 4,509 Lexus cars in Japan because of a computer problem affecting the model's steering system, with a similar recall to follow in the U.S.

The carmaker said Wednesday it would recall the cars in Japan, with another 7,000 affected in the U.S., China, Europe and other regions. The recall affects Toyota's luxury Lexus "LS" line and involves a computerized system that oversees how the steering wheel controls the tires.

After being hit with a record $16.4 million fine in the U.S. for being slow to carry out an accelerator pedal recall and facing strong government criticism both at home and abroad for slow responses to safety problems, Toyota Motor Corp. is working to react more quickly to problems with its cars.

The company on Tuesday paid the fine in the U.S., where it still faces hundreds of state and federal lawsuits.