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Lexus Announces Voluntary Service Campaign to Replace Starter Component

27 January 1998

Lexus Announces Voluntary Service Campaign to Replace Starter Component

    TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 27 -- Lexus Division of Toyota Motor
Sales, USA, Inc. today announced a service campaign to modify starter motors
on certain 1995-1997 LS 400 and 1996-1997 SC 400 automobiles.  The voluntary
action was taken to maintain the highest degree of reliability and safety of
the affected vehicles.  In accordance with its commitment to complete
satisfaction, Lexus and its dealers are making every effort to minimize
inconvenience to Lexus customers, while assuring that their vehicles will
continue to provide reliable service.
    Lexus will replace the starter motor magnetic switch in approximately
43,000 1995-1997 LS 400 and 4,000 1996-1997 SC 400 models.  The carmaker has
determined that due to improper assembly of an electrical connector terminal,
a short circuit may occur if electrically conductive liquid, such as salt
water moisture, enters this area.  As a result, the starter motor may not
operate or, in very rare instances, it could result in melted wiring or an
under-hood fire.
    Although the condition is extremely unlikely, the company is voluntarily
recalling all vehicles in which this component is installed to insure product
reliability and safety.
    "Since its inception, Lexus has a history of total commitment to customer
satisfaction," said James E. Press, Lexus senior vice president and general
manager.  "While this is a highly unlikely situation, we are leaving nothing
to chance and are replacing 100% of the parts in question.  We are contacting
owners of these particular vehicles to assure them that Lexus dealers will do
all they can to upgrade these cars promptly.  It's the right thing to do for
our valued customers, and we're using this opportunity to show them our
commitment."
    Dealers will work proactively with their customers to assure the most
convenient service arrangements.  Owners of affected vehicles will be offered
the use of a loaner vehicle while their LS 400 or SC 400 is being modified.
Customers' cars will receive a complimentary wash and refueling, and owners
will be provided a small gift of appreciation from Lexus.
    The affected starter motor magnetic switches will be replaced at no cost
to owners with an improved component to prevent possible short circuits. Lexus
dealers are dedicating technicians, facilities and parts supplies in order to
service customer vehicles as quickly as possible.  Owners of affected vehicles
will be notified by mail and are encouraged to make an appointment with their
dealership as soon as possible. Customers who have questions should contact
their Lexus dealer or a Lexus customer satisfaction representative at 1-888-
333-9376, or the special owners' section of the Lexus web site at
http://www.lexus.com.

SOURCE  Lexus Division of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.