Lexus New Zealand is recalling 123 SUVs.

The company has detected a steering fault on some overseas LX470 off-road vehicles built between 2002-2007.

Lexus National Manager Debbie Pattullo says the fault has only been experienced in four of the approximately 80,000 vehicles. She says the cases occurred when the vehicle experienced a sudden severe impact such as striking a deep pothole.

Ms Pattullo says no problems have been reported here but owners will soon be contacted and the troubled component replaced for free.