In the UK, the recall affects a total of 3,238 vehicles and has been confirmed with the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA).

The problem lies with the valve operating system in the engine and the possibility of a broken valve spring that could lead to misfiring, abnormal noise or rough engine performance as well as the engine warning light being switched on. Lexus adds that there have been no reported accidents related to this issue.

'We apologise for any concern and inconvenience caused to our customers by this campaign,' said Belinda Poole, Lexus director.

'Lexus take quality issues extremely seriously and we are intensifying our efforts to ensure they are minimised. As is the case with the valve springs, we will continue to take steps to ensure the quality of our customers' ownership experience is safeguarded.

The repair of the recalled vehicles will take place at a Lexus service centre, and will take between 7 and 22 hours, with drivers being offered complimentary use of a replacement Lexus while the car is being repaired.

Lexus says it will take all reasonable action to contact the owners or registered keepers of the vehicles affected as quickly as possible. In the meantime, owners can immediately find out if their vehicle is involved in this campaign by entering their VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the Lexus website at www.lexus.co.uk/recall

Lexus has also launched a dedicated recall information page on its website, which will be updated with the latest information.