Some of the most popular cars in the nation have been hit with a recall notice for a potentially dangerous fault.

Toyota and Lexus have been forced to recall almost 18,000 vehicles for a potentially fatal safety issue.

Some of the country’s most popular new cars are caught up in the recall, including the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Kluger Hybrid and the new LandCruiser 300 Series.

The Lexus vehicles affected include the recently launched LX luxury 4WD and the NX450h plug-in hybrid mid-size SUV.

The recall is connected to a software issue that arises if the stability control system is turned off. In certain situations it may not default to the “on” setting the next time the vehicle is started. Deactivating the stability control can result in a loss vehicle control in an emergency.

Electronic stability control is mandatory on all new cars. The system works by braking individual wheels to keep the vehicle’s rear from sliding out or the front from running wide.

The fault means the vehicle doesn’t comply with Australian Design Rules.

Lexus and Toyota dealers will update the control unit software at no charge and the work will take about one hour.

Toyota Australia will contact all owners via SMS, email or regular mail and request they make an appointment with their local dealer.

Lexus also issued further recalls for its NX SUV range and LX 4WD.

The first notice affected both models and involved another software issue that may cause the central infotainment screen to display video images while driving. This could result in driver distraction and lead to a potential accident.

The second one affects just the NX range and is due to a manufacturing issue.

In this instance the left and right front shock absorber mounting may detach due to improper welding.

This could cause loss of vehicle control and a potential fatal accident.

Owners will be notified and asked to contact their nearest dealership for a free fix.

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