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TORRANCE, Calif. — Lexus officials late last week issued a response to the discovery of faulty valve springs in some V8 and V6 engines in certain Lexus models sold in the United States.

The company estimated that approximately 137,000 vehicles are potentially affected in this country, including the IS 350, GS 350, GS 460, GS 450h, LS 460, LS 600h L.

Current model years are not affected, according to Lexus.

Executives believe because of slight variations during the manufacturing process, some foreign material may have contaminated the valve springs resulting in potential breakage.

In such a situation, Lexus contends there is a remote possibility that abnormal engine noise or idling might occur. The brand emphasized only in extremely rare instances, the engine may stop while the vehicle is in operation.

Lexus officials stressed that they have not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to this issue. They insisted they're moving quickly to resolve the situation with plans to announce an appropriate remedy as soon as possible. 

"In the meantime, we sincerely apologize to our customers for any inconvenience and request that they contact their nearest Lexus dealer if they believe there is a problem with their vehicle," explained Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager of the U.S. Lexus division.