Toyota is recalling certain 2010 Toyota Prius and 2010 Lexus HS hybrid vehicles because of a problem with the braking system that could lead to contamination and increased stopping distances.

The vehicles affected are equipped with a brake pressure accumulators consisting of a metal plunger containing brake fluid encased in a metal housing. Cracks in the bellows could develop over time allowing the nitrogen gas between the plunger and housing to leak into the brake fluid. This will gradually cause decreased hydraulic pressure, longer brake pedal strokes, and increased stopping distance.

Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by first class mail to take their vehicles to their nearest Toyota or Lexus dealer for an inspection. If the vehicle is equipped with an affected accumulator, the dealer will replace the booster pump assembly with a new one. For more information about the problem, owners are asked to contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.