TORRANCE, CA - Lexus, a division of Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc., is recalling nearly 139,000 Lexus vehicles because of a valve spring problem.

The recalled vehicles are powered by 4.6 and 5.0 liter V8 and 3.5 liter V6 engines. The recall covers certain 2006, 2007 and 2008 GS, IS and LS models in the U.S. 

Because of slight variations during the manufacturing process, some foreign material may have contaminated a small number of the valve springs in the recalled vehicles, Lexus said. 

"If a vehicle is affected, there is a remote possibility that abnormal engine noise or idling may occur. In extremely rare instances, the engine may stop while the vehicle is in operation," Lexus said.  

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, this condition poses the risk that the valve spring could degrade to the point of breaking. As a result, the engine could fail and stop suddenly while the vehicle is in motion.

Lexus said it has received no reports of accidents or injuries related to the valve spring problem. No vehicles from the 2010 and 2009 model years are affected. 

The recall covers 138,874 vehicles. Lexus will send vehicle owners a recall notification in the mail. They are requested to contact their local Lexus dealer for diagnosis and repair after receiving their notification.  The repair will involve replacement of the engine's valve springs at no charge. 

Owners can continue to drive their vehicles, Lexus said. If symptoms are noticed, such as vibration, rough idling, unusual engine sounds or poor performance, the vehicle should be brought to a Lexus dealer for service. 

Vehicle owners can reach Lexus at (800) 255-3987.

Lexus vehicles produced among the following models and years are covered: