(January 28, 2011) Toyota this week recalled nearly 1.7 million vehicles globally for a variety of fuel system related problems, including 245,000 Lexus IS and Lexus GS sedans in the United States.

The North American vehicles are being called back to inspect for possibly faulty installation of fuel pressure sensors. In cases where the sensor is not fastened tightly enough, fuel can leak between the gasket that connects the sensor to the fuel delivery pipes, Toyota said.

Lexus dealers in the United States will inspect vehicles for fuel leaks. If none is found, they will tighten the sensor. If leaks are confirmed, the gasket will be replaced and the sensor tightened.

The move affects the following vehicles in the United States: 2006-2007 model year Lexus GS300/350; 2006-early 2009 Lexus IS250; and 2006-early 2008 Lexus IS350.

The actions bring the total number of Toyota recalls since the fall of 2009 to 18 million vehicles.